Master Warrant Officer Darlene Skinner and CFB Shilo Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel J.P. Nguyen raise the United Way Flag for the opening of the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC starting on Sept 15.  (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag Media

The United Way flag waved in the opening of the annual National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) at CFB Shilo on Sept. 15.

Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel J.P. Nguyen addressed the crowd of participants gathered outside the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), encouraging the base personnel to reach above and beyond the 2024 contribution of $10,950.

Cynamon Mychasiw, CEO of United Way West Central, said it is not often the opportunity occurs to kick off simultaneously with the flag raising in Brandon.

“… but today that was accomplished with the regional campaign goal of $800,000 being announced this morning,” she said.

This year’s theme is ‘Give a little – change a lot’, and it couldn’t be more fitting, LCol Nguyen said.

“The idea behind it is simple: small acts of kindness when multiplied across our defence team can lead to big lasting change. It’s not about giving a lot, it’s about giving and everyone doing what they can. When we can do that together, the impact is incredible.”

The nation-wide goal for the NDWCC is to raise more than $2 million for charities supporting mental health, diversity, medical research, and organizations with strong ties to our military community, the Base Commander said.

Each year, NDWCC brings together more than 1,000 volunteers, both military members and civilian employees from within the Department of National Defence (DND), to make meaningful and lasting contributions in their communities.

Captain Tanner Kanagaugh was introduced as the campaign manager for CFB Shilo, with the invitation extended for any ideas for fundraising to be forwarded to him.

Base Commander LCol Nguyen also put out the call for a CFB Shilo volunteer Youth Champion for the 2025 campaign.

“We are encouraged to have a youth champion who will champion those youth efforts. The youth have a big connection to the community and to the future,” he said.

LCol Nguyen said there will be a mix of in-person and virtual events throughout the campaign, which runs until Dec. 31.

Locally, the United Way West Manitoba funded 35 programs and 22 agencies in 2024. Assistance has been provided to thousands of people, including children, families and those facing illness and hardship.

“Let’s raise this flag with pride and kick off a season of generosity, teamwork and fun. Whether you are donating, volunteering, or just spreading the word, you are making a difference here at CFB Shilo. Let’s make 2025 the biggest campaign yet.”

Master Warrant Officer Darlene Skinner and Captain Tanner Kavanaugh prepare the United Way Flag for the opening of the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) starting on Sept 15.  (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

The United Way flag waves outside the CFB Shilo MFRC at the opening of the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC), which started on Sept 15.  (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)