Newsroom Update

2022: United for Community

We believe that the most powerful way to make a difference is to work together. When you support United Way, you are partnering with individuals, businesses, government agencies and nonprofits to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Below are a few ways that your support impacts individuals and families in our region. We hope that you will join us in reflecting on an amazing year of commitment to our community. If you would like to continue supporting this work, please consider making a donation.

You provide safe housing and put food on the table  

Basic needs must be met before any individual can thrive. Our Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds nonprofits that provide food services, shelter, and rent, mortgage and utility assistance to their local residents. This program, along with the programs of our funded nonprofit partners, increases access to basic needs across our entire service area, 11 localities in all.  

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You create opportunities for early learning, resulting in greater school success  

Students that enter kindergarten with the necessary skills to succeed are more likely to graduate high school on time. In 2022, we held our fourth year of Kindergarten Countdown Camp, a free summer learning program for rising kindergarten students with little to no preschool experience. Taught by licensed teachers, this program prepares students and their families for a successful start to school and helps them stay on track to meet other educational milestones. In 2022, we hosted seven Kindergarten Countdown Camp classrooms, serving over 100 students and families

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You support chasing dreams and achieving financial stability  

Finding a fulfilling career allows individuals to both provide for their families and their community.  

  • This year, we expanded our WomenRise program from supporting 6 to 23 single mothers in our region. That means that 23 women will have their childcare costs covered while they continue their education or train for a better career. This not only opens doors of opportunity for these mothers, but the relieved financial stress and increased childcare options allow them to provide stability for their children. 
     
  • So many of our program participants want to use their skills to give back. Dayquon White, a Start Up for Success program participant, is applying the skills he learned in our entrepreneurship training and development program to give back to the community. He is now teaching youth and adults about how to save funds, increase financial literacy and pursue self-development.  

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You connect older adults to community and resources  

Especially after the isolating effects of the pandemic, many of us know what it feels like to be alone. We fund nonprofits that make sure older adults stay connected to their community. In 2023, United Way will financially support 15 non-profit programs that ensure older adults in our community are healthy and connected. By supporting our partnership with these non-profit organizations, you are providing assistance for individuals at every step of their life. 

 

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Change does not happen without you  

When you give to United Way, you do not give alone. Your gift is made alongside a network of caring individuals, families and organizations who believe in providing everyone in our community with a clear path to success. United, we will have the greatest impact in our region. 

Thank you for giving to your local United Way.