Ulrich Krull
Vice-President & Principal, University of Toronto Mississauga
Professor of Chemistry

I have been a supporter of the United Way since my teenage years when I realized how fortunate I was when so many of my neighbours were in need. I observed the tremendous impact that can be achieved by working together as a community and this has influenced my outlook on life and how I choose to make a difference. That the University of Toronto is so highly motivated in its support of the United Way is a strong reflection of the social leadership that our academic community contributes in the Greater Toronto Area. It is a commitment that gives me joy in that we collectively improve so many lives, hope in that we are encouraging our students to assume responsibility for such social leadership roles in their own right, and pride to be a member of this University.

As a diverse community within a leading educational institution we understand that barriers to student success go beyond the classroom. My workplace is located at the University of Toronto Mississauga and I experience the impact of the United Way in the Region of Peel. Poverty, homelessness, mental health, family violence, youth unemployment, racism, and hunger are community issues that impact our students and their families on a daily basis. Such issues prevent many students from reaching their fullest potential and this often starts at an early age. Themes supported by the United Way Greater Toronto and its partners in 2018 focused on “Building Strong Communities”, “Helping Kids Be All They Can Be”, and “Moving People from Poverty to Possibility”, delivered through 88 programs run in partnership with 53 agencies and impacting over 200,000 different individuals; an enormous impact, but still not nearly enough to address the need.

In 1980, two per cent of Peel’s residents were considered low income. Today, it’s slightly over 50% per cent. One in five children in the Peel community lives in poverty. Such is the case across much of the GTA. We all lose when these children cannot reach or excel in education because their personal circumstances have not provided them suitable supports. I am dedicated to the support of the United Way, knowing that when we change the nature of opportunity for our children and youth we change the nature of opportunity for our entire society.

I hope you’ll join me and contribute to the Campaign this year. Your support can be directed to Peel Region and these funds will be used in Peel Region. I note the strategic merger of the United Way of Peel Region and United Way Toronto & York Region in April 2018 offers even more impact with increased region-wide resources and coordination, and a stronger voice to government.

To make the donation process easier, donation instructions are available online.

If you have any questions about the Campaign, please contact the U of T United Way Team at unitedway@utoronto.ca.

Thanks in advance for your consideration and support.

Ulrich Krull
Vice-President & Principal, University of Toronto Mississauga
Professor of Chemistry