More Than Numbers: A Year of Progress & Impact Across the Maritimes
Our 2025-’26 Annual Report has been published, and I can’t help but feel a sense of pride as I read about everything United Way Maritimes has accomplished in communities across the region.
It gives a small glimpse into the impact we’ve been able to make in the lives of Maritimers, and some of the stories we’ve included are especially moving. By working closely with donors, partners, volunteers and community organizations, we’ve responded to immediate needs while continuing to invest in the long-term strength of our communities. Together, we invested $10.4M into Maritime communities, supported 148 agencies with program and operational funding, and built 96 homes in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick with more to come.
Annual Reports are often all about numbers such as these, but behind every number is a person, an organization, and a community working to create change. Their stories are an important reminder of both the challenges people across our region are facing and what becomes possible when we work together.
We’re just getting started
This past year helped set the stage for an ambitious new chapter for United Way Maritimes.
Earlier this year, we launched our five-year Strategic Plan, grounded in what we are hearing from communities across the Maritimes and focused on taking bold action to end poverty and create stronger, more hopeful communities.
Our direction is clear. We are building on our long history of local impact while using the strength of our regional organization to do even more: advancing housing solutions, strengthening the nonprofit sector, improving access to services in rural communities, bringing sectors together around complex challenges, and investing in solutions that address the root causes of poverty.
These are ambitious goals, and they need to be. The challenges facing our communities are significant, and meaningful, lasting change will require all of us.
Fortunately, collaboration is something the Maritime communities do exceptionally well.
Grateful to the leaders that drive our important work
As I step into the role of Chair of the Board, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our outgoing Chair, Derek O’Brien, for his leadership and commitment to the organization. Derek served as the inaugural Board Chair of United Way Maritimes and helped guide the organization through an important period in our evolution, bringing wisdom, calm, and dedication to the role. I’m grateful that we will continue to benefit from his experience, perspective, and commitment as he moves into the role of Past Chair.
I am also pleased to welcome Andrew MacDonald into the role of Vice-Chair of the Board. Andrew has been actively involved with United Way since 2021. He previously served on the United Way PEI Board and played a key volunteer leadership role through our unification process. Andrew will bring energy, passion, and deep care for community to this position.
I feel so fortunate to work alongside a Board, President & CEO, and staff team, that is deeply committed to our mission and to strong, thoughtful governance. I am excited to see what we can accomplish in the years ahead alongside our donors, partners, volunteers, and all other champions and supporters of United Way.
Ready for what comes next
While an Annual Report looks back, the work it represents is ultimately about moving forward.
We have a strong foundation. We have an ambitious plan. Most importantly, we have an extraordinary network of people who believe stronger communities are possible and are willing to help build them.
To our donors who trust us with their generosity, our volunteers who give their time and expertise, our partners who work alongside us, our community organizations doing essential work every day, our Board and Community Impact Council members who lend their leadership and perspective, and our United Way Maritimes team: thank you.
Everything reflected in this year’s Annual Report was made possible because people chose to be part of this work.
I’m proud of what we accomplished together this year. As we begin this next chapter, I’m even more energized by what we can accomplish next.
Cynthia Goodwin
Chair, United Way Maritimes Board of Directors
