“Marian and June have been great supporters of United Way and are respected for the work they do locally,” said Ryan Erb, CEO of United Way Perth-Huron. “Pressing issues like poverty, housing and homelessness, and mental health aren’t going away. We are looking forward to getting the campaign underway and, with help from Marian and June, continue building the impact of the organization across Stratford and Perth.”

Driven by Community

“I’ve always believed that with success comes responsibility,” said deWever. “We are fortunate to live and work in a community that gives us so much, and I believe in using our collective resources, relationships and energy to make that community better for everyone.”

DeWever said the United Way’s work to strengthen communities and invest in affordable housing is particularly meaningful to her.

“As a local realtor, I have the benefit of witnessing the happiness and excitement of buyers and sellers who have successfully sold or secured the home of their dreams,” added Leitch. “I believe everyone deserves that happiness; everyone deserves a home. And I am happy to help work towards that goal, one step at a time, wherever I can. Helping grow United Housing is a promising start.”

About Marian deWever

With more than 35 years in the real estate industry, Marian deWever is the owner of Home & Company Real Estate and a lifelong advocate for community building.

A Stratford resident, she has served as chair of the United Way’s Stratford and Area Community Committee, director of both the Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce and the Huron Perth Association of Realtors, and a board member with the Zonta Club of Stratford.

In 2025, deWever received the Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce Business Leader Award for outstanding leadership, community engagement and commitment to social responsibility.

About June Leitch

A lifelong Stratford resident, June Leitch has deep roots in the community and a long-standing commitment to volunteer service.

She has been actively involved with United Way for 16 years and has served on the Board of Community Living Stratford and Area for the past five years.

Passionate about building connections and supporting local initiatives, Leitch is dedicated to helping create a strong, inclusive and vibrant community where everyone can thrive.

Regional Leadership in Huron

As part of United Way’s regional approach to fundraising, the organization is also announcing Kim Burgsma and Bernice Glenn as campaign co-chairs in Huron.

“United Way remains committed to focusing on the issues that matter most to people in both Perth and Huron,” said Erb. “Having regional co-chairs helps strengthen this focus, and we can’t wait to get working with these four incredible people.”