Andriana joined United Way’s finance team in 2019, bringing with her not just expertise, but a genuine belief in the organization’s mission. Her journey with United Way quickly grew into a deep commitment to creating change in her community. For Andriana, donating to United Way isn’t just about generosity; it’s about being a part of something truly transformational.
When asked why she chose to give, Andriana speaks with conviction about the reliability of United Way’s impact, which has been building strong communities for over 75 years. She admires United Way’s willingness to adapt with its new Cradle-to-Career strategy. “It’s about breaking the cycle of poverty from the beginning—building kids up, giving them the confidence and knowledge they need to thrive from cradle to career,” she explains. For Andriana, this strategy is proof that United Way is listening, evolving, and prioritizing the real needs of the community. “We’re not afraid to change, even if it’s hard,” she says. “We know change is necessary to make a true impact and that involves more than short-term solutions.”
What truly inspires Andriana is United Way’s commitment to supporting the whole family so that children and caregivers alike have the resources they need to thrive. This holistic approach strengthens families at every stage, offering support with education, career readiness, and breaking barriers. “Yes, our focus may be on kids, but we also recognize the power in supporting their families,” Andriana shares. “When parents and caregivers have the right tools and knowledge, they are better equipped to create a stable and nurturing environment, which, in turn, positively impacts the children. By including caregivers, you’re really helping the entire family unit succeed.”
As a Leadership Donor and a member of Women United, Andriana doesn’t just give; she chooses to support programs that resonate with her own story. She remembers the barriers her father-in-law faced due to limited education, and the pride her husband took in being the first in his family to graduate from post-secondary. These personal connections to educational access and opportunity motivate Andriana to support United Way’s On Track To Success program, which helps youth navigate the path from high school to career. She is also dedicated to helping families across Windsor-Essex access essential resources like healthy food, school supplies, and access to important community services.
Andriana’s approach to philanthropy is analytical yet heartfelt. She carefully evaluates the charities she supports, looking at transparency, financial responsibility, and long-term community impact. United Way’s extensive partnerships across the public and private sector and within neighbourhoods prove to her that it’s not just an organization but a trusted neighbour, committed to making Windsor-Essex a stronger, more connected place for all. “United Way isn’t just out there saying, ‘We need money,’” she says. “We’re experiencing the needs of our community firsthand and building real solutions from the ground up, driven by the voices of residents.” Andriana values this model because it elevates the voices of those directly impacted. “Having the resident perspective really drives the change that’s needed,” she explains. “They live the experiences we’re aiming to improve, and that insight builds more genuine, effective solutions.”
For Andriana, supporting United Way is not just about charitable giving; it’s about investing in a system that lifts the entire community by empowering families and listening to the residents who know the communities needs the best. Through programs that provide academic and mental health support, career guidance, and family resources, United Way isn’t only changing lives today but building a foundation for future generations. Andriana’s dedication as a staff member and a leadership donor is a testament to her belief that everyone deserves a fair chance and that, together, a community can make that possible.
To learn more about On Track To Success visit weareunited.com/ontrack
Last updated on June 6, 2025