29 Oct

October 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Reserve Your Spot: 211 One Year Later

United Way of Lake County is proud to celebrate the first anniversary of 211 services for Lake County via webinar on Tuesday, October 27. Join with community leaders and stakeholders to learn how 211 has transformed the way individuals and families from across the county are connecting with essential health and human services.

You’ll hear about 211’s measurable impact, data on community-specific needs, and the results we have seen in year one, including the increased needs arising from the pandemic. You will also hear stories of how 211 has made a real difference in Lake County for community members, employers, agencies, and local government.

Marc Jones, Director of Waukegan Township’s Eddie Washington Center, will moderate a panel of local leaders discussing how 211 more efficiently connects people in need to a wide range of available resources to improve and save lives, including a more in-depth discussion on the top needs and solutions to address them.

Help us recognize the incredible support and collaboration of so many individuals, employers, community leaders and partners who have joined with us to bring this vital service to our community, and celebrate the year one results we’ve achieved together.

You’re Invited: Power of the Purse!

Please join us on Sunday, November 8, for Women United’s signature fundraising event, Power of the Purse. Instead of our traditional in-person event, we will be hosting our first-ever online buying and bidding shopping experience that includes 50+ trendy designer bags and 20+ silent auction purses, baskets and items. You can also help send underserved children to a Summer BOOST Learning Program and donate books and toys to preschool learning centers in Lake County’s low-income communities.

You will find a variety of purse styles such as satchels, shoulder bags, and totes from well-known designers including Michael Kors, Coach, Kate Spade, Rebecca Minkoff, Karl Lagerfeld and more. Maybe you are more interested in jewelry from Kendra Scott or artist David Parker, wine, spirits, chocolate, baby items or sports paraphernalia. There is something for everyone! Retail therapy is even more fun when 100% of all items purchased support early learning programs in Waukegan, North Chicago, Round Lake and Zion.

Buy your ticket today! Click below to learn more.

UWLC Welcomes New Board Members

United Way of Lake County recently welcomed four new members to our 2020-21 Board of Directors: Michelle Hansen, Senior Partner with Aon; Thomas Hudson, Senior Vice President R&D and Chief Scientific Officer of AbbVie; John Idleburg, the Lake County Sheriff; and Kevin Slawin, President & CEO of Trustmark Companies.

“We are thrilled to welcome our newest board members,” said Kristi Long, President & CEO. “Their leadership skills, talents, expertise and genuine interest in our mission make them an asset to our diverse board and the organization.”

The four new members bring unique backgrounds and experiences to UWLC and we are pleased to have them serve on our board.

What’s New with Leaders United?

United Way of Lake County’s young professionals group, Leaders United, has continued to expand their outreach in the community. Recently some members and their families spent a couple of Saturdays volunteering at Cool Food Pantry in Waukegan. The group assisted with organizing the warehouse and sorting food that will go to feed families in need.

Leaders United will also be hosting their first virtual Financial Aid workshop in partnership with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and Waukegan Public Schools on Friday, October 23, 5:00-8:00 p.m. Leaders United members and community volunteers will be available to assist high school seniors, current college students and their families navigate the FAFSA or state aid forms. This workshop is available to all Lake County students. Space is limited. Sign up by emailing Ms. Fulton at efulton@wps60.org.

View the post on Facebook, here.

Meet Our New Intern: Sophie Hyde

We are excited to welcome Sophie Hyde, our newest Success By 6 intern! We love getting to introduce new people to the work we do at United Way of Lake County.

As part of our Success By 6 team, Sophie will work to provide parents with resources to help children receive a strong education and aid their overall development. She will also be assisting with the launch of a new program for UWLC called “Bright by Text.” Sophie focuses on embracing a multicultural perspective and promoting inclusivity. Learn more about Sophie below.

Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars

We are excited to introduce our bilingual 2020-2021 Kindergarten Readiness school year calendars! These calendars are free to you and a great resource for families. The Kindergarten Readiness Calendar (KRC) is designed for preschool-age children and is filled with activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten.

KRCs are available to anyone in Lake County and come in a box of 50. If you would like to request calendars, please fill out our form by clicking the button below.

Please indicate at what time you would like to pick up your calendars in the “additional comments” section of the online order form.

Pick-ups will only be available on Mondays from 8:30-10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. at United Way of Lake County’s office: 330 South Greenleaf Street, Gurnee, Illinois 60031.

Domestic violence was already an epidemic before the pandemic hit, but the health crisis has caused a tremendous spike in incidents of abuse. Even as lockdown restrictions are lifted, the abuse will not simply end. It remains a critical time for survivors, and greater awareness, education, and bystander intervention are desperately needed.

This October, join us in spreading the word that resources are available right here in our community to help those who are experiencing violence. Anyone living in Lake County can call our 211 helpline, 24/7, to speak with a real person who will guide you to local resources. Call 211, text your zip code to 898211 or visit 211LakeCounty.org. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency or fear for your safety, call 911.

Your Voice. Your Vote.

Voting is one of the simplest, yet most powerful, duties we as citizens hold. Let’s exercise our right to be educated, informed voters this year.

Early voting is underway now thru November 2. To find a convenient location, click here. Registered voters can confirm their Election Day voting location here. For more information on voting options, click here.

26 May

May 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Women United Donates Nearly Two Tons of Hand Sanitizer

In just 3 hours, a team of amazing volunteers labeled, poured, capped and boxed nearly two tons of hand sanitizer. We first want to thank the Women United members and other volunteers for their time and hard work. Shout out to Karen Jones and her nonprofit, Chocolate Chips Association, for loaning the volunteers lab coats and safety glasses. A special thank you to Andrew Warrington at United Conveyor Corporation. This project wouldn’t have been possible without his commitment of warehouse space and the expertise of his engineers who helped coordinate the machinery needed for this project.

“We are pleased to mobilize our membership for this project that gets 450 gallons of hard-to-find hand sanitizer in the hands of Lake County nonprofits and residents,” said Diana Nielander, manager of Women United. “As a result, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Catholic Charities, Waukegan Public Schools, ElderCare and others have hand sanitizer to use while delivering critical programs and can offer it to their clients. We are very proud to be able serve in this way.”

View photos of our amazing volunteers in action, below.

Leaders United’s Mask Donation Drive

Leaders United, a group of young professionals supporting the work of United Way of Lake County through volunteerism and philanthropy, launched a mask donation drive to support 3,500 Waukegan Public School students and families in need during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The mask drive is running through May 28. Donate unused disposable or homemade masks to help out essential workers and families. Drop off your mask donations at the Waukegan Police Department located at 101 N. West St., in Waukegan.

Read more about the donation drive in the Lake County Journal. Stay up-to-date on what Leaders United is doing by following them on Facebook.

Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

On March 20, we established the Lake County COVID-19 Community Response Fund to support local nonprofit organizations serving Lake County’s most vulnerable neighbors.

Since launching, a total of $453,262 from the fund has been granted swiftly back into the community to 35 local nonprofits so they can continue their work providing critical resources for Lake County’s most at-risk children and families. Additional grants will be awarded on a rolling basis to quickly respond to urgent and evolving needs, as funds are available.

For a limited time, First Midwest Bank is doubling the impact of gifts made to the fund, up to $50,000. That means your gift will count twice. Donations of any amount will make an immediate impact on critical needs in Lake County. United Way covers all administrative costs so that 100% of donations go directly to recipient agencies.

We are so grateful to the hundreds of individuals and organizations who have donated! If you’d like to make a gift in support of the fund, please click below.

Women United’s Kendra Scott Partnership

Thank you to all of the people who participated in Women United’s virtual Kendra Scott Gives Back event. As a result of your shopping efforts, Women United raised $900, which will support early literacy programs in Lake County. This successful effort is the first piece of an exciting partnership with Kendra Scott, which will include a special in-store event in October.

Stay up-to-date on what Women United is doing by following them on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn..

Respond to the 2020 Census Today

The next 10 years depends on your next 10 minutes! Answer 10 questions and help bring a decade of funding to Lake County for roads, schools, healthcare and much more. It’s easy, confidential and important. You can respond online at my2020census.gov, by phone at (844) 330-2020, or by mail.

If you need help responding or have questions, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211.

Have you seen our signs?

Keep an eye out for our six billboards throughout Lake County promoting United Way of Lake County’s 211 helpline.

If you need assistance finding food, shelter, rent or utility assistance, or other essential services, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211 to speak with someone who can guide you to available resources. 211 is open to everyone in Lake County, 24/7. You can also visit 211LakeCounty.org.

New 211 Videos Available

We now have 30-second promotional videos for 211! There are two versions in both English and Spanish. You can view or share the videos on Facebook or view them on YouTube. You’ll find other promotional materials available on 211LakeCounty.org, in the 211 Toolkit. Thank you to everyone who has helped us spread the word about this great helpline!

28 Apr

April 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Thank You to Our Wonderful Volunteers!

April 19-25 is National Volunteer Week. At United Way of Lake County, we appreciate our volunteers all year long, but this is an opportunity to let every one of you know that the time you choose to spend helping others in the community is truly inspirational. Our work is simply not possible without our volunteers and we are truly grateful for the dedication, time and the talent of people, like you.

From all of us at United Way of Lake County, thank you for all you do!

If you are looking for ways to help our community during this time of great need, review our list of volunteer opportunities by clicking below.

Kendra Scott Gives Back Event

Want to shop online while supporting children’s education in Lake County? You can do just that during Women United’s virtual Kendra Scott Gives Back event. All funds raised by Women United will support early literacy programs in Lake County.

On April 23 and 24, visit KENDRASCOTT.COM using code “GIVEBACK7146” at check out and 20% of your purchase will support Women United. Be the first to shop Kendra Scott’s NEW Spring collection while supporting an amazing cause! RSVP at the link below to receive an email reminder when the event is live.

Respond to the 2020 Census Today

The 2020 Census is happening now! Answer 10 questions and help bring a decade of funding to Lake County for roads, schools, healthcare and much more. It’s easy, confidential and important. You can respond online at my2020census.gov, by phone at (844) 330-2020, or by mail.

If you need help responding or have questions, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211. You can also contact United Way of Lake County at (847) 775-1000.

Help spread the word about the importance of the census by sharing our post on Facebook.

Reading Success Celebration Continues

In honor of Reading Success’ 10-year anniversary, we interviewed tutors and teachers from three different schools that have seen the great impact of this program. In our last two newsletters, we highlighted North Elementary and Clark Elementary in Waukegan.

Next up is Clearview Elementary. At Clearview, we spoke with volunteer tutor Linda Rambo and third grade teacher Ms. Lewis. Read their first-hand accounts of how Reading Success has helped students develop strong reading skills and improve reading performance so they can be on track to succeed in school.

Internship Opportunity: 211 and Community Impact

We are looking to hire a “211 and Community Impact Initiative Intern” for Fall 2020 through Spring 2021. This intern will participate in planning activities and implementation of the 211 Program, including:

Development of plans and related materials for community engagement.
Working with community stakeholders to create partnerships that support the further integration of 211 into community agencies and groups.
Attending community events to conduct outreach to individuals on United Way programs.
Assist in the data collection, analysis and dissemination of outcomes measurements.
Assisting in research on best practices to guide development of strategic plans and assessments for the initiative.

Review the full internship description by clicking the button below.

Interested? Apply by submitting your resume to Robert Szarzynski, HR Director, at Robert.Szarzynski@uwlakeco.org.

Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

On March 20, we established the Lake County COVID-19 Community Response Fund to support local nonprofit organizations serving Lake County’s most vulnerable neighbors.

Since launching, a total of $213,262 from the fund has been granted swiftly back into the community to 14 local nonprofits so they can continue their work providing resources for Lake County’s most at-risk children and families. Additional grants will be awarded on a rolling basis to quickly respond to urgent and evolving needs, as funds are available.

Donations of any amount will make an immediate impact on critical needs in Lake County. With new tax advantages for donating to charities, there is no better time to give generously than now. (See CARES Act article below for more information.) United Way covers all administrative costs so that 100% of donations go directly to recipient agencies.

We are so grateful to the hundreds of individuals and organizations who have donated! If you’d like to make a gift in support of the fund, please click below.

We Are Here For You!

While our offices remain closed temporarily, we are working harder than ever to help support our community during this crisis. Our staff are working remotely and can be reached at (847) 775-1000.

If you need assistance finding food, shelter, rent or utility assistance, or other essential services, CALL 211 or TEXT your zip code to 898211 to speak with someone who can guide you to available resources. 211 is open to everyone in Lake County, 24/7. You can also visit 211LakeCounty.org.

We’re proud to share one of our new 30-second ads for 211. Watch it below. Want to share it on Facebook? Click here.

Questions about COVID-19?

Here’s where you can get accurate, reliable and up-to-date information:

Visit the Lake County Health Department website for local updates and to sign up for email alerts.
To receive information about coronavirus via text message, text “COVID19” to 211211.

CARES Act Includes Charitable Giving Tax Break for Donors

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was enacted on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act includes added financial incentives for community members who want to make donations in support of local efforts to combat the near- and long-term effects of the pandemic. A universal tax break for charitable donations was included in the stimulus package and will go into effect for the 2020 tax year.

Donors who take the standard deduction may also take an “above-the-line” deduction for up to $300 in charitable donations given in 2020. This effectively allows a limited charitable deduction to taxpayers claiming the standard deduction. For example, if you take the standard deduction and give $300 to charity, you will get a $300 tax break in addition to the standard deduction.
For donors who itemize deductions, the limit on charitable deductions – generally 60% of modified adjusted gross income – doesn’t apply to qualifying cash contributions to public charities in 2020; instead the CARES Act allows taxpayers to claim a tax deduction of up to 100% of your Adjusted Gross Income for contributions to qualifying charities.
For corporate donors, the limitation on charitable deductions, which is generally 10% of modified taxable income, doesn’t apply to qualifying contributions made in 2020. The new law temporarily lifts the limit from 10% to 25% of modified taxable income for 2020 filings.

Please consult your accountant or tax preparer for more information about these changes, and how they can help you help others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stay Home Save Lives

The Lake County Health Department has developed the #StayHomeSaveLives public health education campaign to help our community understand COVID-19 and the importance of social distancing. View their first video below. Check out their Facebook page for more helpful information.

25 Feb

February 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Reading Success Celebrates 10 Years!

We are proud to celebrate 10 years of our Reading Success program in Waukegan Public Schools! The success of this program wouldn’t be possible without the support of the many volunteer tutors who help ensure students are reading at grade level by the end of 3rd grade.

A group of fourteen Lake County Judges, led by Judge Luis A. Berrones, who volunteer in Ms. Chang’s first grade class at North Elementary were recently featured on WGN-TV and in local publications including The North Shore Weekend, Lake County Journal and Puro Futbol.

In honor of Reading Success’ 10-year anniversary, we interviewed tutors, teachers and principals from three different schools that have seen the great impact of this program. First up, North Elementary in Waukegan. We spoke with volunteer tutor Judge Luis A. Berrones, first grade teacher Ms. Chang, and principal Nicole Lemburger. Read their first-hand accounts of how Reading Success has helped students develop strong reading skills and improve reading performance so they can be on track to succeed in school.

February 11 Proclaimed “211 Day”

The Lake County Board officially proclaimed February 11 as “211 Day” in Lake County, IL! Thank you to Lake County Government for being a key community partner in raising awareness and support for this vital service.

From February 11 to February 21, we will be highlighting 211 in our community through a series of 11 posts as part of our #11DaysOf211 social media campaign. You can help us spread the word about 211 by engaging with our posts on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

A Fun Night Out Supporting Local Early Literacy Programs

Join Women United on March 7 for their co-ed Windy City Bingo Bash fundraiser at the Merit Club in Libertyville. Tickets are now available!

Attendees will enjoy a fun night of Juke Box Bingo*, Chicago-style snacks and desserts, beer, wine and cocktails (with and without alcohol), sports-themed games, silent auction, 50/50 raffle and prizes galore.

All proceeds from this event will support early literacy programs through the Little Kids, Big Futures Fund.

*Juke Box Bingo is a combination of “Name That Tune” and traditional BINGO. Instead of listening to numbers being drawn (B-1, I-17, yawn!), you and your friends will be tapping your toes to the beat of the music, sipping your favorite beverages, and stamping bingo cards to win prizes!

Shakou Donating Portion of Sales to Women United

Save the Date! Women United was selected by Shakou Libertyville, an award-winning restaurant serving sushi and Asian cuisine, to be a part of their Shakou Cares program in support of local causes on March 10. That means 10% of that day’s sales, including both food and alcohol, goes to Women United.

Shakou Libertyville is open 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Reserve a table, use their app, or simply stop by for lunch, dinner or after dinner drinks. We hope you come out to support Women United.

Census 2020: How to Make Sure Your Family is Counted

In March and April, you will get information in the mail from the U.S. Census Bureau on how to respond by phone, online or with a mail-in paper questionnaire. You can answer the census questions anytime between March and July.

Starting in May, Census takers will begin visiting homes that have not responded to the 2020 Census to help make sure everyone is counted. The best way to avoid a visit is to respond by phone, online or with the mail-in questionnaire before the end of April.

If you need help responding to the census or have questions, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211. You can also contact United Way of Lake County at (847) 775-1000.

UWLC’s Quinton Snodgrass Selected for Worldwide Leadership Program

Congrats to our VP of Resource Development, Quinton Snodgrass, who has been selected to participate in United Way Worldwide’s Advanced Leadership Program—an accelerated year-long leadership development experience designed for senior level professionals that have demonstrated results and capacity to lead.

“We are proud that Quinton was chosen to be a member of the next class of the Advanced Leadership Program and is among the best and brightest of United Way,” said Kristi Long, President and CEO, United Way of Lake County. “It is leaders like Quinton that will engage with the next generation of donors and carry our mission into the 21st century.”

Selection for the Advanced Leadership Program is based on performance, potential and core competencies. Applications for the program come from the worldwide network of 12,850 people and are open to those working across all departments and groups. This program is available to eighteen applicants each year.

25 Nov

November 2019 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Sold-Out Power of the Purse Raises $66k for Early Literacy Programs

On November 3, Women United held their signature fundraising event, Power of the Purse, at the Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove. Over 200 women joined for an afternoon filled with a champagne brunch, an assortment of games to win purses, jewelry and much more. This year’s event raised a record $66,000!

Power of the Purse raises funds for Women United’s Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support six critical early literacy programs that will ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures for Lake County children. Since 2014, Women United has granted over half a million dollars to worthy early literacy programs. Power of the Purse ensures that more children receive the support they need to be prepared for kindergarten and are ready to succeed.

“We are so excited to have another successful Power of the Purse event and raise even more than in 2018. We work hard to create an exciting and memorable event that builds enthusiasm and increases dollars year over year. The generosity and support from Women United members truly makes this event possible.”

-Judy Kotsiopoulos, POP Event Chair

To view photos from this year’s Power of the Purse event, click the button below.

Double Your Impact to Help Improve and Save Lives this GivingTuesday

All of the funds raised this GivingTuesday, between November 26 – December 10, will help us sustain our new 211 program in Lake County, IL.

211 is a powerful information and referral service that helps people in need connect to a wide range of available community resources to improve and save lives. 211 provides access to critical services like shelter and affordable housing options, utility assistance, supplemental food programs, addiction support and rehabilitation, crisis counseling, employment and education support, health care and mental health, and more!

Thanks to the support of many local partners and individuals, United Way of Lake County is proud to have launched 211 for everyone in Lake County on September 24, 2019!

But our work is not over! We need your help to provide this vital service for many years to come so that all 703,000 Lake County residents have access to critical information and resources. Together, we can ensure that Lake County’s 211 system transforms the way our residents find help.

The Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County will be matching 100% of all new or increased GivingTuesday donations up to $5,000.

Please consider making a gift between November 26 and December 10 to help improve and save lives in Lake County, IL.

Be sure to check if your company will match your donation to TRIPLE your impact.

Click below to learn more about our GivingTuesday campaign.

Check Out Our Holiday Opportunities

Looking for giving and volunteer opportunities this holiday season? View our Holiday Opportunities Guide! It’s an easy-to-use guide filled with holiday volunteering and giving opportunities throughout the Lake County community.

Donate as an individual or unite your friends, family, neighbors and co-workers to spread the holiday cheer with children and families in need and deserving of our help. Click the button below to view this year’s guide.

Sign Up for our TAKE ACTION! Advocacy Email

At United Way of Lake County, we believe advocating for good public policy is critical to our mission to improve the lives of children and families in Lake County. United Way engages in public policy advocacy because we recognize our experience, knowledge, partnerships and influence can help inform policymakers’ decisions regarding the policies affecting our community.

Our new, periodic TAKE ACTION! advocacy email will provide a nonpartisan platform for people to take meaningful action that will make a difference.

Sign up for our TAKE ACTION! advocacy email by clicking below.

You’re Invited to Women United’s Wine & Learn

Women United of Lake County invites you to attend their Wine & Learn on December 4 at 6 p.m. in Libertyville to learn more about membership with Women United and how we mobilize our efforts to support early childhood literacy.

Together we strengthen Lake County through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism with a flexible program structure that enables busy, successful women to engage at whatever level works best for them. Become a part of something bigger!

Want to attend? Please RSVP to Janice at Janice.Scarbalis@uwlakeco.org by Sunday, December 1.

Learn more about the event on Facebook by clicking the button below.

Sip, Chat and Learn with Leaders United

Join Leaders United on Thursday, December 5 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Bosacki’s Brewery (610 East Hawley Street, Mundelein) to sample some tasty brews and learn from current members how this group creates positive change in Lake County.

Leaders United is a group of volunteer, young professionals who strive to help local students achieve success and become the future leaders of tomorrow.

Volunteer Opportunity: The Real Deal

You’re invited to be a part of a wonderful opportunity to help educate, support, and enrich the lives of Waukegan high school students. Waukegan High School (Brookside Campus), in partnership with the Lake County Health Department, is hosting an event on December 6 called “The Real Deal.”

The Real Deal is essentially The Game of Life in an interactive form. Students assume the life of a 25-year-old and learn the value and challenges of financial responsibility, how choices such as smoking, teen pregnancy, and drinking/drug use can dramatically impact their future, and the benefits of education on their career goals and life satisfaction through visiting a variety of different “hands on” stations. They receive real life advice on setting goals and avoiding high-risk behaviors from community members and learn about available resources.

There are two sessions; one in the AM and one in the PM. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Bobbi Selvik at Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1022.

UWLC Wins Award for Bringing 211 to Lake County

On November 13, Reflejos, the local bilingual Latino publication, honored United Way of Lake County (UWLC) at their Reflecting Excellence Awards. We were recognized in their “Making a Community Difference” category for our work in bringing 211 to Lake County. United Way staff members, Karla Medina Alamar and Susan Mendoza, attended the event and accepted the award on UWLC’s behalf.

We are honored to be recognized and grateful to Reflejos for helping spread the word about 211 in Lake County!

30 Oct

October 2019 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

211 Helpline Now Live in Lake County

211 has officially launched in Lake County!

Anyone in Lake County can now call 211 or text their zip code to 898211 for free, confidential, 24/7 information and referrals to essential services. 211 is Lake County’s one-stop shop for help!

Thank you to everyone who attended the 211 launch event. Nearly 250 community members came out to support and learn more about this critical service, including people from across the county representing business, government and nonprofit sectors. We are grateful to our panelists and speakers who shared from their perspective how 211 will benefit our community including real-life stories and the impact 211 is already making. View photos from the event by clicking here.

Visit the official 211 Lake County website: 211LakeCounty.org.

View our 211 funding partners here and task force members here whose support made 211 possible.

Watch our 211 video (available in English and Spanish) by clicking below.

Women United’s Successful No Small Matter Screening

Women United of Lake County‘s screening of the documentary film No Small Matter was a huge success! More than 200 community leaders, educators and volunteers gathered at the Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest to rally around the importance of early childhood development.

No Small Matter is the first feature documentary to explore the most overlooked, underestimated, and powerful force for good in America today: early childhood education. Through poignant stories, the film lays out the overwhelming evidence for the importance of education in the first five years, and reveals how our failure to act on that evidence has resulted in an everyday crisis for American families, and a slow-motion catastrophe for the country.

Thank you to everyone who came out to see the film, to the amazing panel of experts who spoke about the importance of quality early care and education, and to the wonderful team of Women United members who were instrumental in bringing this film to Lake County!

Check Out Our Holiday Opportunities

Save the Date: Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is a global holiday dedicated to giving back to your local community and takes place annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Join this global movement by supporting United Way.

This year, your Giving Tuesday gift to United Way of Lake County will help sustain our new 211 program! 211 is a powerful information and referral service that helps people in need connect to a wide range of community resources to improve and save lives. Thanks to the support of many local partners and individuals, United Way of Lake County is proud to have launched 211 for everyone in Lake County on September 24, 2019!

But our work is not over! We need your help to provide this vital service for many years to come so that all 703,000 Lake County residents have access to critical information and resources. Together, we can ensure that Lake County’s 211 system transforms the way our residents find help.

Why Give on Giving Tuesday?

Our matching gift sponsor, Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County, will be matching 100% of Giving Tuesday donations up to $5,000. A matching gift means that our impact will double when it comes to improving and saving lives in Lake County.

Please consider making a gift between November 26 and December 10, 2019. Click below to learn how to get involved with Giving Tuesday this year.

Leaders United Join Facebook

Recently, we introduced a new affinity group for young professionals within UWLC called Leaders United. Their mission is to encourage philanthropy and volunteerism among their peers and their goal is to impact issues that affect students and families across Lake County. This is an outstanding opportunity for those who are seeking to build leadership experiences.

Leaders United has launched their Facebook page. Check it out by clicking here. Learn more about the group and membership by clicking here.

19 Jul

December 2018 e-Newsletter

by Atzallali Saucedo-RuizCategories: Newsletter

Forbes Ranks United Way as America’s #1 Top Charity

Forbes recently released its list of America’s Top Charities and United Way is #1. Forbes ranks the charities based on several financial-efficiency metrics, proving again that a donation to United Way is going to do the most good for the most people! Click here to view Forbes’ list.

United Way was also ranked #1 on The Chronicle of Philanthropy’s new list of America’s Favorite Charities. Click here to learn more.

Your Gift Makes a World of Difference in Lake County

If you choose just one charity worthy of your heart, time and generosity this year, please choose United Way of Lake County.

Your gift to United Way of Lake County funds vital programs, like our Kindergarten Countdown Camp, where children are able to build key kindergarten skills, such as recognizing shapes and letters, counting and writing their names. Getting off on the right food is everything.

You can also support the new 2-1-1 Lake County, a 24/7 helpline (call, text and chat) for local residents needing assistance with everything from food, shelter, clothing, job training, physical and mental health services, elder care and more. Connecting people to the right services at the right time makes a world of difference.

By supporting United Way of Lake County, you help create lasting change by focusing on long-term solutions, not short-term charity. And your gift goes further this year thanks to NRG, who will be matching 100% of all donations up to $7,000.

Please give today by clicking the button below.

Thank You, Keurig Dr. Pepper and American Hotel Register Company

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Keurig Dr Pepper and American Hotel Register Company. American Hotel graciously received, stored and moved 55 pallets of sporting goods and apparel donated by Keurig Dr. Pepper (nearly 5 semi-trailer loads) that were distributed to more than 30 agencies, schools and park districts across Lake County in just 3 days.

Our special thanks to the American Hotel Register team at the Chicago Regional Distribution Center and our community partners who participated in this event.

Pictured (left to right): Dennis Burke (UWLC), Danielle Mallizzio (DC General Manager, American Hotel Register), Michelle Crombie (UWLC), Julie Baker (VP HR, American Hotel Register), Deidre Schwartz (Director Corporate Social Responsibility, American Hotel Register).

Celebrate the Season of Giving

We are happy to share that we raised $10,836 on Giving Tuesday this year! These funds will be used to sponsor more families in our Home Visiting Program that provides free early intervention and health care services to the highest-risk families in Lake County.

We would like to thank the individuals who made a Giving Tuesday gift and recognize our matching gift sponsor, Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County, for pledging to match all new or increased gifts made up to $5,000.

If you missed out on Giving Tuesday, consider making a tax-deductible, year-end gift to support our programs. Click below to make a gift or learn more.

Meet Our New Staff

Recently, we welcomed Bobbi Selvik to our United Way family! We are thrilled to have her as our new Manager of Community Impact. Bobbi’s role includes providing year-round volunteer engagement opportunities as well as implementing the Young Leaders United group.

Learn more about Bobbi and her work at United Way by clicking below.

File Your Taxes for FREE with MyFreeTaxes

Tax season is right around the corner and we are excited to offer the MyFreeTaxes Program to Lake County residents once again.

MyFreeTaxes is an easy, safe, and free way to file your taxes online. Available for residents in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, you can file your federal and state returns for free at MyFreeTaxes.com. United Way promotes MyFreeTaxes to help support the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community, and maximizing your tax refund is a key step towards that goal.

The income cap for tax season 2019 will be $66,000 for individuals and households. Similar to last year, MyFreeTaxes will use H&R Block’s premium product. Stay tuned for more information in January!

Learn more about MyFreeTaxes by clicking the button below.

Happy Holidays!

As we approach the holiday season, we’d like to say THANK YOU for supporting our mission to create lasting change in Lake County. None of our work would be possible without donors, volunteers and supporters—like you.

From all of us at United Way of Lake County, we wish you a safe and happy holidays!

Connect With Us On Social Media

Want to keep in touch more often than just our once-a-month newsletter? Become a part of our social community by following us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram, where you can see what’s new, share your thoughts and be among the first to know about all the ways that United Way is creating lasting change in Lake County.

19 Jul

March 2019 e-Newsletter

by Atzallali Saucedo-RuizCategories: Newsletter

UWLC Hosts Countywide Reading Day in Honor of Dr. Seuss

On March 1, over 95 volunteers participated in a county-wide volunteer effort to read to over 1,140 students in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday and Read Across America Day. Volunteers read to students, ranging from pre-K to 3rd grade, at Glen Flora and North Elementary in Waukegan, Pleviak Elementary in Lake Villa and Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago.

Click below to view photos from this special day!

211 Gains Support of Local Hospitals

United Way has continued to gain support from local partners and individuals to help bring 211 to Lake County. Most recently, Advocate Aurora Health, NorthShore Highland Park Hospital, and Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital joined our amazing list of 211 partners. Once launched, 211 will connect residents to various resources including health care and other critical services to improve and save lives, so we are proud to have the support of local medical institutions.

Click below to sign-up to receive our 211 e-newsletter so you can stay up-to-date on the pending launch in Lake County.

Now Available: 2019 Program Overview

Our 2019 Program Overview is now available. Click below to view the amazing work being accomplished in Lake County!

Better Together is Back in Session

Our Better Together program is back in session and always welcomes new families! Better Together is a parent and toddler class where they learn, play and develop school readiness skills together. Each session is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at Green Bay Early Childhood Center.

Click here to view all of the upcoming sessions.

Learn more about Better Together by clicking the button below.

Volunteer Opportunity: Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Do you enjoy spending time with 4 and 5-year-olds? Our Kindergarten Countdown Camp has a summer volunteer opportunity! Volunteers are needed to assist the program’s teachers in a variety of classroom tasks and work with the students who are struggling. Volunteers must be willing to commit 2-3 days a week for at least 5-6 weeks between June 10 and July 19.

Click below to learn more about this important opportunity.

United Way of Lake County is Hiring

Want to join our team? Apply today!

Success By 6 Early Learning Professional (Part-time position)

Click below to learn more.

Don’t Stress! You Can File Your Taxes With Ease

No need to stress. United Way and HR Block have teamed up to bring you free tax prep you can trust. File your state and federal taxes for $0 at MyFreeTaxes.com.

19 Jul

January 2019 e-Newsletter

by Atzallali Saucedo-RuizCategories: Newsletter

Waukegan Kindergarten Readiness Improves From 6% to 57%

During fall 2018, United Way of Lake County conducted the fifth Kindergarten Readiness Assessment in Waukegan. United Way has conducted this assessment every three years in Waukegan since 2006. Twelve years ago, a baseline assessment showed that only 6% of the children in Waukegan Public Schools had the skills needed to be successful in kindergarten. The results were a call to action for United Way to launch the Success By 6 Program, designed to promote healthy early childhood development to ensure children enter school ready to succeed.

Today, based on the same assessment, we are thrilled to announce that the percentage of Waukegan children who arrive at kindergarten ready to succeed in school has increased from 6% to 57%!

The Success By 6 Program is very excited to continue its efforts to increase kindergarten readiness in Waukegan and is grateful to everyone who made this 2018 assessment possible. A special thank you to the teachers, staff and principals at Waukegan School District! This wouldn’t have been possible without your support.

Learn more about the Success By 6 Program by clicking below.

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

There are several upcoming volunteer opportunities that you or your company can get involved in. Here are three examples of upcoming one-time opportunities:

STEM for Girls

When: Saturday, February 23, 2019 (11:45 a.m. – 1:10 p.m.)

Where: College of Lake County Grayslake Campus

STEM for Girls is a free event for girls in grades 7 through 12 who are interested in STEM Programs. During the Lunch and Learn, volunteers will share how STEM degrees impact their companies. Volunteers representing a STEM related company come and share with girls and their parents about STEM careers, internships, and scholarship opportunities at their companies.

Host a Job Shadow Half-Day with High School Students

This is a unique opportunity for companies to have a personal engagement with high school students over one morning. Educations Talent Search/TRIO at College of Lake County has requested four job shadow opportunities for their partnering high schools: Waukegan High School, North Chicago High School, Round Lake High School, and Zion-Benton Township High School.

ETS/TRIO serves first generation college-bound students. This event will allow students to visit companies to learn more about professional work life. This interaction will allow students the opportunity to engage with volunteer professionals, ask questions and learn to network. A typical outing includes 30-40 students “job shadowing” 15 company employees.

Dr. Seuss Readers

Join us on March 1, 2019, to participate in Dr. Seuss’ Birthday and Read Across America Day. Volunteers will be “guest readers” and share their love of reading with kindergarten through third grade children.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Bobbi Selvik at Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org.

View our full list of volunteer opportunities – both one-time and ongoing – by clicking the button below.

211 Coming Soon to lake County

At the end of 2018, United Way of Lake County announced that our goal to launch 211 in Lake County has been reached!

211 is a powerful information referral service, equipped with tools to solve problems of all magnitudes including crisis and disaster phone calls and texts. Currently, 94% of our country has an established 211 program but less than 30% of Illinois residents have access to 211 and Lake County, IL residents do not have any access. Thanks to the support of many local partners, United Way will change that in Spring 2019 when we launch 211 in Lake County!

But our work is not over! Working together, we can provide this vital service for many years to come and ensure that all 703,000 Lake County residents have access to critical information and resources. Together, we can ensure that Lake County’s 211 system transforms the way our residents find help.

If you’d like to make a gift to help sustain 211 in year two, please click here.

Thank you to our following partners who are supporting the 211 implementation in Lake County:

Learn more about 211 Lake County by clicking the button below.
Want to receive updates about 211 Lake County via email? Click here to sign-up.

Host a Dr. Seuss Book Drive

On March 1, we are celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday and Read Across America Day. For the last several years, we have organized an event in which volunteers visit local schools and read Dr. Seuss books to students.

This year, we are collecting Dr. Seuss books that will be donated to schools in Lake County in honor of Read Across America Day. You can help us by hosting a book drive with your friends, family or co-workers to collect new or gently-used Dr. Seuss books by Friday, February 22. We need books in both English and Spanish.

To coordinate a drop-off, contact Karla Medina Alamar at Karla.Alamar@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1010.

New Board Members Spotlight

United Way of Lake County recently welcomed new members to the Board of Directors. hear from Paul Lotharius and Steve Carlson about why they decided to join UWLC’s Board. Click the buttons below to read their full Q&As.

“Joining the UWLC Board is a way of feeling connected to, and a part of, something that is bigger than just me and my family”.

-Paul Lotharius, President/CEO of HeatlhFitness at Trustmark Companies

“Working to bring 211 to Lake County, I’ve become acquainted with the many remarkable, dedicated people in the United Way organization”.

-Steve Carlson, Lake County Board Member

Marketing Internship Opportunity

Know a college student looking for a Marketing/Communications internship? Interning with United Way is a great way to get hands on experience, learn new skills and make a difference in your community, all while building your resume.

Want to apply? Send your cover letter and resume to Rita at Rita.Zaluzec@uwlakeco.org

Click the button below to learn more.

Women United Invites You to the Next Wine & Learn

Start off 2019 with new friendships, connections and a renewed purpose! Join us on January 31 at 6 p.m. in Libertyville to learn more about membership with Women United and the way we mobilize our efforts to support early childhood literacy.

Want to Join? Please RSVP to Janice at Janice.Scarbalis@uwlakeco.org before January 28.

Learn more about the event on Facebook by clicking the button below.

Thank You, Wolters Kluwer!

Our sincere thanks to Melissa O’Keefe, Jennifer Robertson and the Charitable Contributions Committee at Wolters Kluwer in Riverwoods, Illinois for their generous year-end gift.

These funds will support our vision to assure that Lake County children and families are successful in school, work, and life.

5 Tips Before Doing Your Taxes

In preparation for the tax season, we have put together a list of five key tips to consider before doing your taxes.

Tip #1: Don’t pay to file your taxes.

Find out why and see all five tips by clicking below.

25 Apr

April 2019 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

Thank You to Our Wonderful Volunteers!

In honor of National Volunteer Week, we’d like to say “Thank You” to our incredible volunteers! Our work is simply not possible without our volunteers and we are truly grateful for the dedication, time and the talent of people, like you.

Click the button below to view a video of our staff thanking our AMAZING volunteers. We hope it brings a smile to your face!

Volunteer Opportunity: Reading Buddies

We need volunteers to spend an hour in a classroom reading with kindergartners!

120 children in Lake County will attend a Kindergarten Countdown Camp this summer. Learning the joy of reading is an important piece of this camp and we need volunteers to demonstrate how much fun reading a book can be! Reading with young students brings books to life and shows them how entertaining reading can be. These children come from low-income families – so many don’t have books at home. Introducing them to the concept of books, stories and reading is an important milestone for them as they prepare to enter kindergarten this fall.

Click below for more details.

Volunteer Opportunity: Kindergarten Countdown Camp

We are looking for several in-classroom volunteers to assist with our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC). KCC is a free summer learning program for incoming kindergarteners who have never attended preschool nor been in a classroom setting. Quality early childhood programs, like KCC, produce lasting effects for a child – entering kindergarten with the academic, emotional and social skills needed to be successful.

Classroom volunteers must be 16 years or older and willing to commit 2-3 days a week for at least 5-6 weeks, between June 10 and July 19. For more details, click below.

211: One Step Closer to Launch in Lake County

Last week on social media, we shared the exciting news that we signed a contract with our call center, which means we’re one step closer to launching 211 in Lake County!

211 is a free and confidential helpline that can be easily accessed 24 hours a day, every day of the year, connecting individuals and families to health and human services in their community. The service will connect residents to various resources from shelter and housing options, supplemental food programs, health care and mental health services, addiction support and rehabilitation, crisis counseling and more to help improve and save lives.

Want to stay up-to-date on the pending launch of 211 in Lake County? Sign-up for our 211 e-Newsletter below.

We’re Pleased To Present Our 2018 Annual Report

Thanks to your generosity and kindness, we are transforming communities by bringing together people who have the passion, the expertise and the resources needed to get things done.

We are proud of all that we have achieved together and extend our deepest thanks for the financial resources our supporters have entrusted us with to create lasting change for children and families in Lake County.

Women United Invites You to the Next Wine & Learn

Have you been looking for a way to support the Lake County community and meet some amazing women in the process? Join us on May 9 at 6 p.m. in Lake Forest to learn more about membership with Women United and the way we mobilize our efforts to support early childhood literacy.

Women United members strengthen Lake County through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism with a flexible program structure that enables busy, successful women to engage at whatever level works best for them. Become a part of something bigger!

Want to Join? Please RSVP to Janice at Janice.Scarbalis@uwlakeco.org before Monday, May 6. Learn more about the event on Facebook by clicking below.

You’re Invited to our Annual Meeting

Join us for United Way of Lake County’s Annual Meeting event on Thursday, May 16, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.! Enjoy a delicious reception at our Conference Center while networking with other Lake County leaders and advocates.

During the event, you’ll hear about United Way’s successful work in the community as we honor outgoing Board Chair, Andrew Warrington, and welcome incoming Board Chair, Carla Zuniga.

Registration is free, we just ask that you RSVP by Wednesday, May 15. We hope to see you there! To RSVP, please click below.

Tag: 211

Reserve Your Spot: 211 One Year Later

Have you seen our signs?

New 211 Videos Available

We Are Here For You!

Questions about COVID-19?

CARES Act Includes Charitable Giving Tax Break for Donors

Stay Home Save Lives

October 2020 e-Newsletter

Meet the Interns: Sophie Hyde

September 2020 e-Newsletter