Provincial employees attempt to set world record

More than 500 provincial government employees gathered at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax Oct. 1 to celebrate the start of their annual United Way fundraising campaign.   In honour of this year's campaign theme "Celebrating Communities," people attempted to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest number of party poppers set off at one time. A video recording and supporting material will be presented to Guinness officials following the event for review and possible official recognition.   Staff from government departments, agencies, boards and commissions come together each year to pledge support for the United Way. This year's campaign goal is $500,000.   "Over the years, provincial government employees have gone above and beyond to show their support for the United Way and the important work they do in communities across Nova Scotia," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "Their generosity and commitment goes a long way to help make life better for Nova Scotia families in need."   This year's campaign is being hosted by Communications Nova Scotia, and the Departments of Communities, Culture and Heritage, and Energy.   "Charitable giving, volunteerism and community-based initiatives are an essential part of creating a healthier, safer Nova Scotia," said Murray Coolican, deputy minister of Energy and co-chair of the province's United Way campaign committee. "By supporting the United Way, provincial government employees acknowledge this shared responsibility and go the distance to lead by example."   In the Halifax Regional Municipality, the United Way funds 55 agencies and more than 100 programs ranging from afterschool programming, literacy, employment training and family resource delivery. Funds raised by employees in HRM will support the work of the United Way Halifax.   "We are grateful for the enthusiastic and generous support from provincial government employees during the annual campaign," said Catherine Woodman, president and CEO of United Way Halifax. "Their efforts year after year set an important standard for community commitment. Donations help United Way focus on its priorities to change poverty to possibility and encourage healthy living."   Provincial government employees across Nova Scotia show their support for the United Way annually with independent campaigns run regionally to support local United Way programs.   People interested in learning more about the annual United Way giving campaign can visit www.gov.ns.ca/unitedway .