Archive for May 2017
The Pathway To Success Starts Early
Students who are succeeding in elementary school have a greater chance of graduating high school. By IMPACTING at-risk youth and setting them on their pathway to success at a young age, we can ensure they will be ready for college or a fulfilling career. Falling victim to poverty is the alternative for these kids. We…
Read MoreCracking the Book on Leadership
United Way board members are inspiring kids to read — and gaining new insights in the process. During March and April, Interim CEO Chris Sargent offered children’s books to UWBCKR’s Board of Directors and encouraged them to read one with a child. “Our Board expressed eagerness to dive deep into the work of United Way…
Read MoreTeens Encouraging Teens and Preteens To Make Smart Healthy Choices
High rates of teen pregnancy can upend young lives and increase the burden on a community’s social programs. Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiative (TPPI) was formed in 2005 by United Way of Jackson County with a mission to reduce the teen pregnancy rate and address contributing factors for Jackson County’s young people. TPPI strives to improve…
Read MorePop-Up Giving: A New Way to Give Together
June 6 marks a new way to do good. Pop-Up Giving empowers individuals to join and become instant grant makers in a fun and social environment. “It introduces the concept of collaborative giving and provides another entry point to the world of philanthropy and volunteerism,” said Hayley Wasser, associate director of major gifts for United…
Read MoreJackson County Families Deserve A Stress Free and Financially Secure Life
United Way of Jackson County wants to help struggling families develop their pathway to financial stability and success. Your support allows UWJC to fund Financial Stability Workshops through the Community Action Agency. By completing this six-week program, clients learn how to become comfortable with a planned budget, manage their finances, and plan for the future.…
Read MoreAmanda's Story
Amanda’s story: ‘I feel like I have a chance’ Amanda Bennett has big plans ahead. She wants to take classes next year at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. She’s looking forward to forming and strengthening bonds with her family and children. And she’s determined to continue down her road to recovery. Six months ago, she couldn’t…
Read MoreStudents Power Volunteerism
Nearly 500 Calhoun County high school students deployed Friday morning from Full Blast in Battle Creek, buzzing with energy and ready to get to work for the ninth annual Youth Day of Caring 2017. They returned several hours later – smiling, dirty and in some cases splattered with paint – having set a powerful example…
Read MorePartnership Response to Shootings Earns Award
A positive, collective response to the 2016 mass shootings in Kalamazoo has earned kudos for communications that rallied the region. On May 4, the West Michigan chapter of the Public Relations Society of America recognized the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, the Battle Creek Community Foundation and United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region with…
Read MoreDealing With Trauma Leads To Stability
For individuals who feel as if their life if spiraling out of control, we offer help and an opportunity to regain their stability. Through your support, United Way of Jackson County provides funds for the Outpatient Counseling Program at Catholic Charities which provides services for low-income, uninsured or under-insured families and individuals. This program specializes…
Read MoreUnited 4 Change Looks Ahead
Five years ago, a diverse group of people from regional businesses, school systems and nonprofits gathered at Eaton Corporation’s Galesburg facility to talk about education, volunteerism and the future workforce. The result was United 4 Change, a collective effort supporting and inspiring students, especially in early grade reading and career mentoring. This month, many of…
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