Mission
To build a better community by organizing the capacity of people to care for one another.
Vision
We envision communities where everyone works together to ensure poverty is temporary, individuals and families live healthy lifestyles, and that children and youth have the tools they need to reach their full potential.
What is United Way
The organization you know as the United Way of Lethbridge & South Western Alberta is a registered charity, part of the United Way – Centraide Movement. It is one of 67 United Way Centraides across Canada working to address a range of needs in their local communities.
History
The United Way was born from the idea that we can do more together than we can apart. The United Way concept in Lethbridge & South Western Alberta has roots dating back to as early as 1941 when it began as the Community Chest.
Local
We do this by helping to bring to light the issues and needs of South Western Alberta communities and making it easy for people to get involved and make a difference. We raise funds locally and invest in programs that serve the people in Lethbridge & South Western Alberta.
The area served by United Way of Lethbridge & South Western Alberta extends from the B.C. border east to Highway 36, including Taber and Vauxhall, and from the U.S. border north to Claresholm.
Accountable
United Way is accountable to its donors and partners. For over 80 years, United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta has been proud to belong to a federated organization of 67 United Ways across the country investing along with you in our communities to build Healthy People and Strong Communities, transform Poverty into Possibility, and to ensure that Kids Can Be All They Can.
Meeting Immediate Needs
The United Way focuses on the most vulnerable in our communities by funding local agency programs through Community Grants. United Way works with local agencies to understand and address immediate needs.
Addressing Root Causes Collaboratively
The United Way collectively works with the community to address root causes. We work by facilitating conversations, conducting research, and participating in committees and work groups that address homelessness, poverty, youth, mental health and food access. Our focus is to address prevention and long-term impact so that change is positive and significant.
Our Strategic Plan
View our Strategic PlanOur Team
Jaci Zalesak
Executive Director
Jaci has always been passionate about her community. She came to the United Way looking to volunteer and quickly joined the Board and the Allocations Committee. Jaci holds a Canadian Society of Association Executive designation, and strongly believes in the work of nonprofits. Volunteering has always been a part of her personal mandate and has served on several boards and committees that align with the United Way’s values.
As a business development professional, Jaci has supported the region collaborating on various projects that have helped put Lethbridge & South Western Alberta on the map. She believes individuals and businesses play a strong role in supporting our communities; supporting financially is important but also your time, and examining the challenges communities face are also equally important. We can make a positive difference in people’s lives if we have a better understanding of the needs and challenges that people and organizations face.
As a business development professional, Jaci has supported the region collaborating on various projects that have helped put Lethbridge & South Western Alberta on the map. She believes individuals and businesses play a strong role in supporting our communities; supporting financially is important but also your time, and examining the challenges communities face are also equally important. We can make a positive difference in people’s lives if we have a better understanding of the needs and challenges that people and organizations face.
Gita Kaura
Resource Development Officer
Gita Kaura serves as the Resource Development Officer, bringing a truly compassionate, dependable, and charismatic approach to her work. With a proven track record in comprehensive fundraising, impactful event management, and cultivating strong relationships, she adeptly secures vital support for the community. Gita is known for her resourceful and intelligent solutions, ensuring effective strategies that foster collaboration and drive positive change.
Drawing on extensive experience in customer-focused roles and a deep commitment to community engagement, Gita is a generous, loyal, and hard-working professional. She is deeply passionate about community development and connecting people to meaningful causes, and her ability to build lasting relationships and effectively communicate the importance of community investment plays a vital role in supporting United Way's mission of creating a profound impact on people's lives in Lethbridge and South Western Alberta.
Drawing on extensive experience in customer-focused roles and a deep commitment to community engagement, Gita is a generous, loyal, and hard-working professional. She is deeply passionate about community development and connecting people to meaningful causes, and her ability to build lasting relationships and effectively communicate the importance of community investment plays a vital role in supporting United Way's mission of creating a profound impact on people's lives in Lethbridge and South Western Alberta.
Ryan Tunall
Community Development Coordinator
Ryan joined the United Way of Lethbridge & South Western Alberta in early 2024. Originally from a small farming community in Saskatchewan, he learned early on the benefits of giving back. He's called Lethbridge home for a while now and in that time has been part of different non-profits, special event committees and hockey teams.
Ryan holds a diploma in Communication Arts (Broadcast Journalism) from Lethbridge College and a Bachelor of Professional Arts degree from Athabasca University. He has an extensive history in sales and also works as a REALTOR® licensed in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Outside of the office he is the very proud father of two teenage daughters and is a dedicated Hockey & Dance Dad. In the winter you can find him at a random rink and in the summer on a random golf course. Ryan is very passionate about supporting his community and is always ready to lend a hand.
Ryan holds a diploma in Communication Arts (Broadcast Journalism) from Lethbridge College and a Bachelor of Professional Arts degree from Athabasca University. He has an extensive history in sales and also works as a REALTOR® licensed in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Outside of the office he is the very proud father of two teenage daughters and is a dedicated Hockey & Dance Dad. In the winter you can find him at a random rink and in the summer on a random golf course. Ryan is very passionate about supporting his community and is always ready to lend a hand.
Ali Siees
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Ali is a dedicated member of the team at United Way. He brings a wealth of passion and dedication to the organization, with a deep-rooted commitment to supporting community and social entrepreneurship. Growing up with strong moral values of helping others and giving back, Ali has been involved in various charity and community activities from a young age and continues to be actively involved in volunteer activities with different non-profit organizations. He holds a business degree and brings a unique perspective to United Way, utilizing his academic knowledge and professional experience in the areas of marketing, business strategy, and social communications. Ali is proud to be a part of such a great and well-established organization like United Way and is thrilled to have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the community. His drive to make a difference and willingness to give back make him a valuable asset to the team, helping the organization achieve its mission of creating positive change in the communities it serves.
Sarah Peters
Casual & Admin
Sarah is currently pursuing a combined Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education at the University of Lethbridge, with a strong passion for shaping the future through education. With aspirations to become an impactful teacher, she is dedicated to fostering curiosity, inclusion, and lifelong learning in the classroom and beyond.
Sarah was raised with a strong sense of community and service. Over the years, she has contributed her time and energy to various volunteer initiatives, always seeking meaningful ways to give back. Whether it's tutoring students, supporting local events, or helping in community programs she strives to bring dedication and the spirit of collaboration to everything she does.
In her downtime, Sarah enjoys reading, taking long walks with her dog, and gathering around the table for board games with friends.
Sarah was raised with a strong sense of community and service. Over the years, she has contributed her time and energy to various volunteer initiatives, always seeking meaningful ways to give back. Whether it's tutoring students, supporting local events, or helping in community programs she strives to bring dedication and the spirit of collaboration to everything she does.
In her downtime, Sarah enjoys reading, taking long walks with her dog, and gathering around the table for board games with friends.
Our Board
Molly Pletsch
President
Molly Pletsch joined the Board of Directors for the United Way of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta to create a space where she champions community engagement, collaboration, and lasting impact across the region. With a Bachelor of Professional Arts in Human Services from Athabasca University, Molly has built a career dedicated to serving others—working as a Recreation Therapist, Department Manager, and Regional Manager before transitioning into real estate.
Now a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Real Estate Lethbridge, Molly blends her deep roots in human services with a passion for helping individuals and families find their place in the community. Originally from Okotoks, Alberta, she fell in love with Southern Alberta while completing her education in Lethbridge and returned in 2021 to make it home
Now a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Real Estate Lethbridge, Molly blends her deep roots in human services with a passion for helping individuals and families find their place in the community. Originally from Okotoks, Alberta, she fell in love with Southern Alberta while completing her education in Lethbridge and returned in 2021 to make it home
Mark Sheffelmair
Vice President
Mark is currently working as an Inclusive Child Care Coordinator and Behaviour Consultant with Key Connections Consulting. Working in the human services field has allowed Mark to familiarize himself with various community agencies and programs while supporting diverse clientele in Lethbridge. Mark believes that his knowledge and perspective is a valuable asset to the Board of Directors. Being involved in a governance role to review, reinforce, and refine policies and procedures associated to the United Way mission statement is an area of interest. Mark’s experience and role in the development of the Inclusive Child Care program consisted of the development of standards of practice that guide the overall ICC program across Alberta ensuring a consistent approach for best practice within all associated agencies.
Fundraising often involves creating community connections, working with people and volunteers, and being a strong advocate promoting the United Way, its Community Fund, and its mission. Mark is dedicated to representing himself and organizations he’s associated with integrity and passion. This ensures he is able to be involved in fundraising opportunities with a clear focus and respect for all stakeholders. Mark looks forward to being a part of the United Way Board of Directors and reinforcing the great work that is done in the community.
Fundraising often involves creating community connections, working with people and volunteers, and being a strong advocate promoting the United Way, its Community Fund, and its mission. Mark is dedicated to representing himself and organizations he’s associated with integrity and passion. This ensures he is able to be involved in fundraising opportunities with a clear focus and respect for all stakeholders. Mark looks forward to being a part of the United Way Board of Directors and reinforcing the great work that is done in the community.
Tolu Balogun
Treasurer
Tolu has over 2 decades of experience in finance, bookkeeping and accounting, earning his stripes as a chartered accountant in 2003 and recently being honored as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
But Tolu’s story isn’t just about balance sheets and budgets, it’s about a deep-rooted passion for giving back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.
Eight years ago, Tolu arrived in Canada, carrying not just his expertise in bookkeeping, investment banking and financial management but a heartfelt commitment to making a difference. For him, numbers aren’t just figures on a page, they are tools to build trust, ensure transparency, and fuel a mission to bring people together to care for one another.
So his first port of call was the United Way’s office (then on 3 Ave South) where he volunteered 2 to 3 days a week to help. One of the things he did was to help cleanup and organize the outdated database of organizations that are impacted by the funding that the United Way provides. In return, this also gave him the opportunity to get to know many people in the community.
As Treasurer, Tolu steps into a role that is as much about heart as it is about precision. He’ll be working with the finance committee to prepare budgets, presenting financial statements to the Board, and making sure every dollar is accounted for.
What drives Tolu? It’s the community that’s been his home since he settled in Lethbridge. He’s inspired by the United Way’s three pillars and their vision of fostering connection and care across South Western Alberta. For Tolu, this isn’t just another volunteering gig, it’s a chance to weave his skills into the fabric of a community that’s given him so much. With every financial report he prepares, every strategy he shapes, Tolu is helping to tell the story of a stronger, more connected Lethbridge - one number, one person, one act of care at a time.
But Tolu’s story isn’t just about balance sheets and budgets, it’s about a deep-rooted passion for giving back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.
Eight years ago, Tolu arrived in Canada, carrying not just his expertise in bookkeeping, investment banking and financial management but a heartfelt commitment to making a difference. For him, numbers aren’t just figures on a page, they are tools to build trust, ensure transparency, and fuel a mission to bring people together to care for one another.
So his first port of call was the United Way’s office (then on 3 Ave South) where he volunteered 2 to 3 days a week to help. One of the things he did was to help cleanup and organize the outdated database of organizations that are impacted by the funding that the United Way provides. In return, this also gave him the opportunity to get to know many people in the community.
As Treasurer, Tolu steps into a role that is as much about heart as it is about precision. He’ll be working with the finance committee to prepare budgets, presenting financial statements to the Board, and making sure every dollar is accounted for.
What drives Tolu? It’s the community that’s been his home since he settled in Lethbridge. He’s inspired by the United Way’s three pillars and their vision of fostering connection and care across South Western Alberta. For Tolu, this isn’t just another volunteering gig, it’s a chance to weave his skills into the fabric of a community that’s given him so much. With every financial report he prepares, every strategy he shapes, Tolu is helping to tell the story of a stronger, more connected Lethbridge - one number, one person, one act of care at a time.
Carrie Mc Dermott
Secretary
Carrie has twenty years’ international experience in hospitality management and sales with experience managing multiple accounts and numerous properties. Focused on building relationships and long lasting community partnerships.
Carrie’s hospitality journey began in her native Ireland. She attended the Cork Institute of Technology and obtained an Honours Diploma in Hotel Management & Catering Supervision. Her first role in hospitality was with the Millrace Hotel and the Maldron Hotel. With the Millrace, Carrie was a versatile team member who had many roles in food and beverage, as well as operations. At the end of her tenures with both different hotels, Carrie was the Revenue and Reservations Manager for each of the respective properties. In 2017, Carrie’s hospitality journey in Canada began, when she settled in Lethbridge and accepted a role with Sandman Hotels as a Guest Service Manager for the Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge, later growing into the role as the Front Office Manager, and further into her current role as the Senior Sales Manager for Sandman Hotel Group in the Lethbridge area. Through her time in Canada, Carrie has not only grown her role within the Sandman Hotel Group, but also her community as she sits on the Chamber of Commerce board, The Downtown BRZ Board and is now the Secretary of the board of United Way.
Carrie’s hospitality journey began in her native Ireland. She attended the Cork Institute of Technology and obtained an Honours Diploma in Hotel Management & Catering Supervision. Her first role in hospitality was with the Millrace Hotel and the Maldron Hotel. With the Millrace, Carrie was a versatile team member who had many roles in food and beverage, as well as operations. At the end of her tenures with both different hotels, Carrie was the Revenue and Reservations Manager for each of the respective properties. In 2017, Carrie’s hospitality journey in Canada began, when she settled in Lethbridge and accepted a role with Sandman Hotels as a Guest Service Manager for the Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge, later growing into the role as the Front Office Manager, and further into her current role as the Senior Sales Manager for Sandman Hotel Group in the Lethbridge area. Through her time in Canada, Carrie has not only grown her role within the Sandman Hotel Group, but also her community as she sits on the Chamber of Commerce board, The Downtown BRZ Board and is now the Secretary of the board of United Way.
Krysty Thomas
Past President
President & Labour Liaison
As President of the Lethbridge and District Labour Council, Krysty was asked to serve on United Way’s Allocations Committee as a labour liaison in 2019, after which she was invited to join the Board. In 2020 she took on the additional role of chair of the Impact Committee and in 2022 became the board President.
Krysty moved to Lethbridge in 2004 and completed BSc (Biological Sciences, 2006) and a MSc (Molecular Biology, 2013) at the University of Lethbridge. She currently works as a research technician at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Lethbridge Development and Research Centre. She is very involved with her union (Public Service Alliance of Canada) and the broader labour movement. She is a passionate advocate for worker’s rights, accessible child care, quality public services, human rights and equity.
Krysty has two young children and in her spare time she enjoys road cycling, spinning, and cross country skiing with her family.
As President of the Lethbridge and District Labour Council, Krysty was asked to serve on United Way’s Allocations Committee as a labour liaison in 2019, after which she was invited to join the Board. In 2020 she took on the additional role of chair of the Impact Committee and in 2022 became the board President.
Krysty moved to Lethbridge in 2004 and completed BSc (Biological Sciences, 2006) and a MSc (Molecular Biology, 2013) at the University of Lethbridge. She currently works as a research technician at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Lethbridge Development and Research Centre. She is very involved with her union (Public Service Alliance of Canada) and the broader labour movement. She is a passionate advocate for worker’s rights, accessible child care, quality public services, human rights and equity.
Krysty has two young children and in her spare time she enjoys road cycling, spinning, and cross country skiing with her family.
Crystal Good Rider
Director
Crystal Good Rider grew up on the Piikani Nation - part of the Blackfoot Confederacy - until she was 18 years old. Her Blackfoot name is “iidoomestayaiiki” (Dives First Woman). Crystal’s parents are Judy Wings-Crop Eared Wolf & Chris Good Rider. Her maternal grandparents are Ruth Wings & Pat Crop Eared Wolf from the Fish Eater Clan, and paternal grandparents are Madeleine & Hector Good Rider from the Lonefighter Clan.
Crystal graduated University with a combined degree (B.Ed./B.A.) in 2004 and obtained her Master's in Educational Leadership in 2010. She has enjoyed teaching, and interacting with students for the past 18 years. She is an Education Consultant who provides workshops on Indigenous Education in Southern Alberta Schools. Crystal is also an accredited fashion designer through the Visual College of Art & Design in Vancouver, BC.
In November of 2021, Crystal was appointed to the First Nations Women’s Council on Economic Security by the Alberta Government’s Minister of Indigenous Relations. The work of this council is to make life safer for Indigenous women and girls, and to achieve greater economic security for Indigenous women, their families and communities.
Crystal graduated University with a combined degree (B.Ed./B.A.) in 2004 and obtained her Master's in Educational Leadership in 2010. She has enjoyed teaching, and interacting with students for the past 18 years. She is an Education Consultant who provides workshops on Indigenous Education in Southern Alberta Schools. Crystal is also an accredited fashion designer through the Visual College of Art & Design in Vancouver, BC.
In November of 2021, Crystal was appointed to the First Nations Women’s Council on Economic Security by the Alberta Government’s Minister of Indigenous Relations. The work of this council is to make life safer for Indigenous women and girls, and to achieve greater economic security for Indigenous women, their families and communities.
Carson Foggin
Director
Carson Foggin was born and raised on a farm outside of Magrath and now practices law in Southern Alberta. After earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Alberta, Carson began his legal career in Calgary before returning home to join Stringam LLP, where he maintains a general law practice with a focus on real estate, estates, and corporate/commercial matters.
Deeply committed to his community, Carson volunteers with Lethbridge Legal Guidance and coaches youth sports in Magrath. He values the opportunity to support families and individuals both professionally and through community service.
Carson lives in Magrath with his wife, Taneal, and their two young children. In his free time, he enjoys staying active with hockey, slo-pitch, and golfing.
Deeply committed to his community, Carson volunteers with Lethbridge Legal Guidance and coaches youth sports in Magrath. He values the opportunity to support families and individuals both professionally and through community service.
Carson lives in Magrath with his wife, Taneal, and their two young children. In his free time, he enjoys staying active with hockey, slo-pitch, and golfing.
Lori McLain
Director
Lori brings a professional background in organizational development, DEI leadership, and governance, with experience spanning healthcare, municipal government, and nonprofit sectors. She is passionate about fostering inclusive cultures that amplify diverse voices, drive meaningful change, and align workplace well-being with sustainable growth.
Holding a degree in Nonprofit Management, Lori combines operational expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. She is currently pursuing graduate studies in equity and organizational leadership, further strengthening her focus on systemic change and social equity. Lori also offers consulting services, supporting organizations in building purpose-driven, inclusive practices.
An active community member, Lori brings a collaborative spirit and a people-first approach to her role on the United Way Board. Outside of her professional and volunteer work, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and engaging in initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity and inclusion.
Holding a degree in Nonprofit Management, Lori combines operational expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. She is currently pursuing graduate studies in equity and organizational leadership, further strengthening her focus on systemic change and social equity. Lori also offers consulting services, supporting organizations in building purpose-driven, inclusive practices.
An active community member, Lori brings a collaborative spirit and a people-first approach to her role on the United Way Board. Outside of her professional and volunteer work, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and engaging in initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity and inclusion.
Interested in joining our team?
Joining our team is a great way to give back to the community and expand your skills.
United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta
#203B – 542 7 St S.
Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1
Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1
403-327-1700
together@lethbridgeunitedway.ca
together@lethbridgeunitedway.ca
Current Positions
At United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta, we are steadfastly dedicated to enhancing the lives of our communities.
While we don’t have any open positions at the moment, we welcome passionate individuals to submit their information using the form below for future opportunities.
Stay connected for future opportunities and join us in creating lasting change.