United Way recognizes generosity of Deere

John Deere and one of its employees were honored earlier this week for being supporters of the United Way of South Niagara.
John Deere and one of its employees were honored earlier this week for being supporters of the United Way of South Niagara.
The United Way of South Niagara benefited from the generosity of John Deere, according to NiagaraThisWeek.com.

In addition to Deere being named one of two platinum corporate donors, a Deere employee in Ontario was recognized for community impact. Deere, its generous employee and other supporters were honored this past Tuesday when the United Way voted on a new board and took care of other administrative issues.

"Our 2010 campaign was a great challenge," said John Nicol, outgoing president. "The United Way of South Niagara has stayed the course. We've been able to meet our funding commitments."

Monica Rose of the Welland facility was successful when persuading Deere to donate $30,000 worth of office supplies to the United Way. The contribution was made from the John Deere Foundation, which is the philanthropic arm of the globe's largest manufacturer of farm equipment.

"I'm so glad we could help," Rose said.

Executive director Peter Papp said supplies that Rose had Deere donate were distributed to agencies that the United Way supports.

Canadian Tire Financial Services was the second platinum corporate sponsor for 2010/2011.

"Was it a difficult year? Unequivocally yes. Was it an inspiring year? Yes," Papp said.