Youth Opportunity

United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties logo next to the Youth Opportunity Coalition logo

GOAL:  Helping young people realize their full potential.

LOCAL RESULTS

  • For many ALICE families, low wages and non-traditional work schedules mean before and after school care is necessary, yet unaffordable. United Way's investment in partner programs helps ALICE families bridge the gap - meaning more families with financial need can access safe, trustworthy wrap around care. 
  • 824 children received before and after school or summer enrichment through partner programs in 2024.
  • ALICE families don't have the means to enroll in many youth programs, leaving children behind their peers andVolunteer reading to a group of children without valuable life skills. United Way's investment in partner programs provides sponsorships to ALICE families - meaning youth have access to mentorships and skill-building programs.
  • 1,049 youth benefited from programs teaching leadership, life skills, and healthy social development in 2024.
  • 228 teens attended and engaged with employers at the 2024 Teen Job Fair.
  • $8,246.28 was invested by Women United in 10 literacy programs at local elementary schools in 2024.
  • Over 150 volunteers made an impact through Great Book Giveaway, Stuff the Bus, reading mentorships, and the Youth Opportunity Coalition in 2024.
  • The need for childcare far outpaces the number of available childcare slots. United Way's investment reduces barriers and provides resources to new programs, helps providers become regulated, and ensures training opportunities to improve safety & quality of care.
  • 40 providers received support and assistance through partner programs in 2024 to increase access to childcare.
  • 4,970 books mailed to children in south Wood and Adams Counties through Women United and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in 2024.
  • 832 books were provided to children through Great Book Giveaway 2024.
  • 945 students with financial need received free school supplies through Stuff the Desk in 2024.
  • Lantern texting service is available to families with kids from prenatal to preteen. It sends messages based on your child's age and where you live. Visit mylantern.org to learn more or text BRIGHT to 274 448 to begin receiving texts.

Source:  United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties, United Way of Wisconsin ALICE Report 2018, UWSWAC Partner Program, Women United, Youth Opportunity Coalition

SUCCESS STORY

Brett struggled to find his place. Full of energy and anger, he often found himself getting into trouble, engaging in negative behaviors with peers, and having difficulty respecting staff at a United Way partner program. Brett wasn't sure how to channel his energy positively until United Way support introduced him to a life-changing social-emotional learning (SEL) program.

He began attending weekly small group sessions led by SEL staff, where he learned important skills like active listening, self-awareness, and conflict resolution. He was given opportunities to mentor younger children. The more he participated, the more he realized the impact he could have—not only on others but also on himself.

Within one month, Brett became a more active participant, and his behavior issues began to fade. He was stepping up by guiding his peers to also make positive choices.

Thanks to the United Way-funded SEL program, Brett didn't just learn to manage his emotions, he discovered his potential. It's a powerful reminder that when we invest in youth today, we build stronger leaders for tomorrow.