Spotlight on Education

United Way of Story County (UWSC) stands on three main pillars of impact; health, education, and financial stability. It’s what we as an organization live and breathe each day. We focus on ensuring that each person in our community has access to affordable health services, the building blocks needed for academic and life success, and that all individuals will achieve financial stability.
 
Every year, September marks the kickoff of our new campaign season. With a new campaign comes new challenges, new opportunities, and always a new way to create impact. As we have in the past, we create a campaign video, displaying particular needs in our community, and how UWSC combats the need with quality programs and partnerships. 
 
Our education initiative is one that is constantly evolving. Beginning with a summer food service program back in 2013, we now are involved with over 5 summer enrichment sites and out-of-school programs throughout the school year. Well over 1,000 children were served last year in communities throughout the county, many of these are at risk of falling behind their peers.
 
Highlighted in our 2019 campaign materials, Kids Club is one program that works to provide a safe place for children before and after school as well as during the summer months. Structured, interactive, and educational activities are offered to school-aged children in ways that build their desire to learn and teach them to become more self-reliant. With the help of United Way, Kids Club offers a sliding fee scale based on family income allowing children from all backgrounds the opportunity to enhance their learning. 
 
For many families, there is a gap in care between the school day and work day end.  Paying for child care, coordinating transportation, and working through ever-changing school schedules can impede on a parents ability to keep working. Kids Club is able to bridge the gap in care and allow parents peace of mind that their child is in a safe space while also growing and learning. 
 
Kids Club being just one example, UWSC’s partner agencies offer all sorts of enrichment programs from reading tutors to summer camps, all investing in education for our most vulnerable populations. By participating in the LIVE UNITED annual campaign, you are part of changing the story for youth in our community.