Meet United Way Golden Horseshoe

BRANT, HALDIMAND-NORFOLK, HALTON, HAMILTON AND NIAGARA, March 30, 2026 – A new chapter for United Way in the Golden Horseshoe begins April 1, 2026, as Brant United Way, United Way Haldimand & Norfolk, United Way Halton & Hamilton, and United Way Niagara officially come together as United Way Golden Horseshoe.

The four United Ways have joined together to create a stronger, more connected organization, enhancing support for people and families across the region while ensuring local impact remains central to its mission.

United Way Golden Horseshoe reflects a shared commitment to meeting growing community needs through collaboration, coordination, and long-term sustainability. While the organization is coming together under a new name, what matters most to communities remains unchanged. Funds raised locally will continue to stay local, and the people who have built trusted relationships in each area will continue to work directly in those communities.

“I am incredibly excited to share with our communities that our United Way’s are joining forces to better serve our local communities we serve and support that is critically needed. The launch of United Way Golden Horseshoe is about strengthening what already works,” said Brad Park, Interim President & CEO of United Way Golden Horseshoe. “Our local teams in Brant, Haldimand-Norfolk, Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara remain right where they are, continuing to support partners, donors, and community members. Those relationships and that local knowledge are essential, and they will always be at the core of our work.”

Park brings over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, including leadership roles across the United Way movement. As Interim President & CEO, he will work closely with local leadership and staff to ensure continuity, accessibility, and a strong, continued local presence across all regions served.

“By coming together, we are better positioned to respond to rising needs, share expertise, and strengthen our network of support across the Golden Horseshoe,” Park added. “At the same time, people can expect the same familiar faces, the same local commitment, and the same focus on supporting neighbours close to home.”

The decision to move forward together follows more than a year and a half of careful planning and collaboration by the Boards of the four United Ways. Throughout this process, maintaining strong local relationships, community trust, and regional responsiveness has remained a central priority.

Local leaders from across the region have expressed confidence in the direction and opportunities of the new organization.

“This is an exciting moment for Niagara,” said Frances Hallworth, former CEO of United Way Niagara. “The strength of United Way has always come from local relationships, and I’m encouraged by how clearly that commitment remains in this next chapter. United Way Golden Horseshoe builds on that foundation while creating new opportunities to support people across the region.” Frances’ leadership will remain central as United Way Golden Horseshoe begins this next chapter.

Beth Luciani, former Executive Director of Brant United Way, highlighted the benefits for local communities.

“Brant’s needs and partnerships will continue to be understood and supported by people who know the area well. I’m confident this new organization will strengthen local impact while benefiting from a more connected regional approach.”

Beth will continue to be a strong and visible leader in Brant, and is excited to keep serving the region as part of United Way Golden Horseshoe.

George Araujo, former Executive Director of United Way Haldimand & Norfolk, emphasized the thoughtful nature of the process.

“This decision reflects careful planning, strong collaboration, and a genuine commitment to doing what’s best for local communities. I have confidence in the leadership and in the continued focus on people and partnerships at the local level.”

George will remain actively engaged in Haldimand Norfolk, supporting local partners and strengthening community impact.

United Way Golden Horseshoe will continue to invest in local programs that address social services issues, including poverty, housing instability, food insecurity, mental health challenges, social isolation, and so much more. In addition to funding essential services, the organization will strengthen coordination among agencies, support innovation, and help ensure communities are better equipped to respond to complex and interconnected social services challenges.

United Way Golden Horseshoe officially launches on April 1, 2026. More information about the organization, its impact, and how to connect with your local United Way teams can be found at UWGH.ca.

For more information and to donate visit: www.uwgh.ca