Northwestel Inc. and its employees have worked together to raise $20,188.82 for the United Way Society of the Yukon, the company said Friday.

Earlier this fall, Northwestel and other workplaces across the territory joined together in the 16th annual United Way Yukon campaign.

Funds go toward projects and programs that assist Yukon children, youth, families and people living with disabilities, as well as those that fight substance abuse and poverty.

Fund-raising activities were held at several Northwestel workplaces in Whitehorse.

Employees organized an Anything in a Crock Pot Lunch, a recipe sale and an Ice Cream Sundae Treat Day to raise money.

They also collected cash and credit card donations, and signed up for Northwestel's payroll deduction program.

Northwestel matches 100 per cent of the money raised through one-time donations and workplace events. It also provides a 50-per-cent matching contribution for all payroll deductions.

"Our employees have once again shown generosity, team work and community spirit in raising funds for United Way Yukon,” said Paul Flaherty, Northwestel's president and chief executive officer.

"This annual campaign is a great way to share what we have with those in need. Our company is proud to work with our employees to contribute to the United Way.”

"United Way Yukon is very thankful for the continuing generosity of Northwestel and its employees,” said Leslie McRae, the United Way's Yukon campaign committee chair.

"Their joint donation is a significant amount, and will go a long way toward helping many organizations and individuals in need of support. In particular, we'd like to thank the additional Northwestel employees who signed on for the payroll deduction program and those who have stayed on with the program.

"Payroll deductions form the foundation of United Way's success, and we are very grateful to all those who contribute in this way.”

In 2009, Northwestel contributed more than $550,000 in cash and in-kind donations to many northern community groups.

"Throughout its history, Northwestel has played a key role in the economic, social and cultural development of the North,” the company said.

"Northwestel is recognized as a key contributor to the well-being of northern communities through its community investment program and the volunteer contributions of its employees.”