A lofty fundraising goal of $600,000 was established on Sept. 17, during the opening ceremonies at police headquarters.

The kick-off event saw members of the Service compete in entertaining Olympic-style events to raise money and the spirits of fundraising participants. Competitors, representing various units and commands, took part in rock, paper, scissors, tic-tac-toe, Oreo lick race and grocery bagging. Court officer Melissa Gibson finished first.

United Way Campaign chair S/Supt Tony Corrie said the spirit of the Olympics, where people push themselves to be the best in an effort to spread the message of peace and unity, fits well into the idea of United Way fundraising.

“In order to do that, it requires commitment, passion, dedication and, that is what exists, at the heart of those involved in raising funds for the United Way in order to reach our goal of making life better for those less fortunate,” Corrie said. Last year, Service members raised $585,000 for United Way.

He said the Service sets an amazing precedent in the number of people involved in the fundraising efforts, with over half of TPS members – among the top fundraisers in the public sector – giving in some way.

“It is said about the Olympics that, the most important part is not about winning, but taking part.”

Chief Bill Blair, Toronto Police Services Board chair Alok Mukherjee, Melanie Bloch of the United Way and Senior Officers’ Association representative S/Supt Mike Federico, all came out in support of the United Way.

Competitors entered the event in a Parade of Athletes, led by members of the Ceremonial Unit and Pipe Band and 2007 TPS Idol Winner, PEO Steve Cooper, as the national anthem was played.

Upcoming United Way events include: the CN Tower stair climb on Oct. 26 and a silent auction at headquarters on Nov. 12. For more information, contact a member of the United Way fundraising committee at 8-8929.

The campaign will wrap up with a cheque presentation at headquarters on Dec. 10.