United Way names Chief Antje McNeely as 2020 campaign chairperson
The United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (KFL&A) has announced that Chief of the Kingston Police Force, Antje McKneely, will be Kingston’s 2020 Campaign Chair.
The 79th annual campaign season will kick off on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 virtually and will be continuing with the theme ‘Local Love.’ The campaign will show that local love is seen in the action, response and the recovery of the Kingston community as it adapts to the global pandemic.
Despite the challenges presented to the community because of the pandemic, Chief McNeely said that she is happy to take on the role.
“I am honoured and proud to be the 2020 United Way KFL&A Campaign Chair. As Chief of the Kingston Police, I can personally attest to the significant impact that our local United Way has on community safety and well-being,” said Chief McNeely in a statement. “The Kingston Police directly benefit from and value the investments made by the United Way in our many community agencies. Through collaboration and partnership with these community agencies, we can ensure that those in need receive the appropriate help in a timely manner.”
She also said that she is ready to adapt to the current circumstances.
“New opportunities arise from crisis, and it has been heartwarming to see our community come together to help those in need through the COVID-19 Response Fund,” said McNeely. “This year’s campaign will find new ways to connect with our supporters through virtual giving platforms.
Chief McNeely has been with the Kingston Police since 1985, was signed on as Chief of Police in 2018 and has been awarded with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 in recognition of her volunteer work, along with the Police Exemplary Service Medal and first bar. She is also a Queen’s University graduate twice over, having completed her Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in 1983, and the Professional Master of Public Administration in Policy Studies program in 2013.
“As a long-time volunteer with United Way KFL&A, Antje brings her experience and enthusiasm for the community to this new role,” said Bhavana Varma, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A. “Antje’s strong leadership, along with the dedication of our amazing Campaign Cabinet volunteers, is essential to help us continue to support the most vulnerable in our community.”