United Way celebrates 75th anniversary with parade

Hundreds of Calgarians marched through downtown Calgary to celebrate the United Way's 75th anniversary on Thursday.

"We really need to come together as a city," said Lucy Miller, president ofthe charity, which aimsto help more people during the economic recession.

"That's what United Way does it brings people together, especially during difficult times. We can be the voice of hope."

Mayor Naheed Nenshi has officially proclaimed September United Way month.

Alarming jump in callers

Miller said she doesn't expect donations from people or corporations to drop off much despite tough economic times even as charities face growing demandfor assistance.

Meanwhile, the Calgary Counselling Centre says it is seeing an alarming jump in the number of people needing help because of stress over losing their jobs or worrying about losing their jobs.

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"Almost twice as many people are requesting counseling for stress than they did a year ago," said Robbie Babins-Wagner, the centre's chief executive officer.

Babins-Wagner says callers are expressing high levels of stress and anxiety, and not feeling good about themselves.