We are thrilled to share that we exceeded our goal for this year’s annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive! Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we prepared and distributed 3,072 backpacksfull of supplies to students across Lake County!
We are so proud that many more children will have the supplies they need to succeed during this new school year! Thank you to the dozens of companies and donors who supported this drive and the volunteers who donated their time to pack, sort and stuff each backpack.
View the long list of organizations that helped make Stuff the Bus a huge success below.
Hispanic Heritage Month Book Drive
Through October 15, you can join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing the joy of reading with local children and being a part of their storytelling adventure! Your support will enrich elementary school libraries by promoting cultural awareness, celebrating diversity, and honoring Latinx and Hispanic culture.
Reading is one of the great equalizers in our society.
A great book opens so many possibilities for children.
Results and Reflection: Kindergarten Countdown Camp
We are pleased to share the results of Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC), our free summer learning program for incoming kindergarten students with limited preschool experience
This year, in addition to returning to Round Lake and Waukegan, we expanded KCC to Antioch, Beach Park and Zion.
Before camp, only 46% of students averaged at least “in progress” or better across the eight skills assessed (shapes, colors, letters, name writing, counting, book familiarity, rhyming and fine motor skills). After camp, we saw that average increase to 69% “in progress or better” in those same eight skills. That’s a 50% increase!
We are also pleased by the feedback we received from the school districts. “Every year, we have an opening parent night for our families,” said Aron Borowiak, Antioch District 34 Superintendent. “The room that was best attended and had the most energy was for KCC. The parents were really excited for their kids to have this opportunity. We saw growth and success for the students who attended. We appreciate how KCC is organized. It made it easy for us to put into place. The program coordinators did a tremendous job of helping and supporting our teacher. We plan to open up KCC to more classrooms next year.”
Connections Magazine recently published an article about KCC’s expansion to Antioch. Check it out below!
SUCCESS STORY
Alan: Becoming a Model Student
Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) was not easy for Alan. The pandemic delayed his early social development, and KCC was the first place where Alan interacted with peers in a structured classroom setting. During the first few weeks of KCC, Alan often felt frustrated. Learning new skills such as raising his hand, walking in a line, taking bathroom breaks, following a schedule, and group play were challenging. Alan’s behavior required constant redirection from his KCC teachers. Each time he was redirected, Alan would apologize. He wanted to learn how to do better. Despite the challenges, Alan showed up to KCC each day with a smile.
A couple weeks after KCC ended, Alan started kindergarten in Beach Park. Alan’s kindergarten teacher shared that Alan is an exemplary student! “Alan is the ONLY kindergartner in my classroom that is raising his hand to speak. He can walk in a line in the halls, he understands the classroom schedule and he engages in patient turn-taking during group play.” Alan’s teacher shared that his confidence is through the roof. “His beaming smile is all the evidence I need to see how proud he is of himself.” Through KCC, Alan was able to prepare for the classroom expectations and environment. And now, Alan’s teacher looks to Alan as a model student to guide other kindergartners.
To view the full story on our website, click below.
You’re Invited: Power of the Purse!
Join Women United on Sunday, November 5 at Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove for their signature fundraising event, Power of the Purse.
Come away for a fun-filled afternoon with the special women in our lives. We’ll enjoy brunch, bubbly, games and special surprises. There will be more than 40 designer bags, plus silent auction items and raffle baskets to win. All proceeds will support critical early education programs in Lake County.
Place Your Order: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars
Our free, bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are a great resource for families and educations. The calendars are designed for preschool-age children and filled with activities and information to help families get ready for their child’s first day of kindergarten.
Place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form.
Board Member Update
We are thrilled to welcome four new members to our 2023-2024 Board of Directors: Bill Gould, President & COO at Trustmark, Matthew Rizzie, Executive Director at Great Lakes Credit Union’s Foundation for Financial Empowerment, Samer Saleh, Divisional Vice President at Abbott, and Captain Steve Yargosz, Prospective Commanding Officer at Naval Station Great Lakes.
Bill Gould will serve on the Community Impact Council, Matthew Rizzie will serve on the 211 Advisory Council, and Samer Saleh will serve on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee.
“Our new members’ leadership skills, knowledge of the communities we serve and genuine interest in our mission make them an asset to our diverse board and United Way of Lake County,” said Kristi Long, President & CEO.
A special thank you to outgoing board member Kevin Slawin for his dedicated service.
United Way of Lake County Ambassador Program
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you have excellent communication skills and a desire to engage with local businesses for a worthy cause?
If so, consider becoming a United Way Ambassador! This volunteer role is essential to the success of our fundraising campaigns, as you will be the bridge connecting our mission to local businesses in your assigned geography. By joining our team of dedicated UWLC Ambassadors, you’ll play a pivotal role in helping United Way create lasting change in your community. View all the details below.
If you’re interested in becoming a UWLC Ambassador, please email our VP of Resource Development, Quinton Snodgrass at quinton.snodgrass@uwlakeco.org.
Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 through October 15. Join us in celebrating and honoring Latinx and Hispanic literature, experience and storytelling by giving the gift of reading to local children!
The books in our collection are by Hispanic/Latinx authors featuring Hispanic/Latinx characters and influential figures. The books will be donated to local elementary schools, increasing children’s access to literature that promotes a positive equity message.
Stuff the Bus Comes to a Close
We are thrilled to share that we have continued to receive even more support for our Stuff the Bus school supply drive. A whopping 3,900 backpacks, supplemental bags and teacher kits have been created using the school supplies and funds donated to our supply drive. These supplies were distributed throughout Lake County for students and teachers to use during the new school year.
We are blown away by the amount of support we received this year and are so grateful to everyone who contributed—thank you!
You’re Invited: Power of the Purse!
Join Women United on Sunday, November 6 at Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove for their signature fundraising event, Power of the Purse.
Come away for a fun-filled afternoon to celebrate the special women in our lives. We’ll enjoy a champagne brunch, games, prizes and special surprises. There will be 50+ designer bags, silent auction purses and baskets to bid on in person. 100% of the proceeds will support critical early education programs in Lake County.
Buy tickets by Friday, October 14 to be entered to win a Tiffany & Co. bracelet!
Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars
Our bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are free, a great resource for families, designed for preschool-age children and filled with activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten.
You can place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form. Indicate what time you would like to pick up your calendars in the “additional comments” section of the form. Pick ups are available by appointment only, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., at 330 S. Greenleaf St, Gurnee, IL.
Join Us to Celebrate Three Years of 211
We are proud to celebrate the third anniversary of 211 services for Lake County. Join with community leaders and stakeholders on October 17 to learn how 211 has grown to become a lifeline for people across the county seeking help meeting basic needs.
You’ll hear about 211’s measurable impact, data on community-specific needs and the results we have seen in year three. You’ll also hear stories of how 211 has made a real difference for community members, employers, agencies and local government. Megan McKenna, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, will moderate a panel of local leaders discussing how 211 more efficiently guides people to resources to help improve 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 Lake County, and celebrate the results we’ve achieved together.
Launch a Workplace Giving Campaign
Change doesn’t happen alone. Your organization, large or small, can help us create a stronger Lake County through a United Way workplace campaign. Whether your campaign is virtual or in-person, we’ll provide you with the tools you need to plan, coordinate and implement a successful fundraising campaign.
Is your organization ready to LIVE UNITED? We’ll help you get started.
Board Member Update
We are thrilled to welcome two new member to our 2022-23 Board of Directors: Clarence Berry (pictured below), Area Superintendent for Waukegan Public Schools, and Derrick Harden (pictured right), VP of Strategy, Planning & Support and Chief of Staff with College of Lake County.
“Our new members’ leadership skills, knowledge of the communities we serve and genuine interest in our mission make them an asset to our diverse board and United Way of Lake County,” said Kristi Long, President & CEO.
A special thank you to outgoing board member, Dr. Lori Suddick, for her dedicated service.
We are looking to hire an intern to participate in planning activities and implementation of our 211 program within the Lake County community. 211 is Lake County’s free, confidential, 24/7 information and referral helpline connecting people to available health and human services.
Work with our Community Impact team to participate in planning activities and implementation of the 211 program within the Lake County community, including data collection, visiting locally-owned businesses and attending community events. This internship requires reliable transportation and good written and verbal communication skills.
When tragedy hit the Highland Park community on July 4, our 211 team quickly mobilized to bring the best practices in crisis response from experienced 211s across the nation. More than 5,000 community members were directly impacted by the mass parade shooting and our 211 helpline has been instrumental in centralizing and verifying emerging resources, and compassionately guiding community members, victims and their families to appropriate mental health services, grief counseling, financial assistance, verified fundraisers and other resources. 211 is an integral part of the transition to a long-term recovery plan.
If you or someone you know needs support, 211 is here to help. Simply dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211 to talk with a caring, expert navigator who will connect you to local resources. 211 is free, confidential and available 24/7, with English and Spanish-speaking staff and interpretation to more than 150 other languages. For those affected by the Highland Park shooting, you can also find counseling and mental health resources at 211LakeCounty.org under “Hot Topics”.
Every day United Way of Lake County works to make our community stronger. Together we are building a community where everyone can recover and thrive.
Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars
Our new bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are now available! They are free, a great resource for families, designed for preschool-age children and filled with activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten.
You can place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form. Indicate what time you would like to pick up your calendars in the “additional comments” section of the form. Pick-ups are available by appointment only, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., at 330 S. Greenleaf St, Gurnee, IL.
We have already received a lot of great support for our Stuff the Bus school supply drive. If you would like to participate, there is still time. We are continuing to collect supplies and online donations through August 15.
Thank you to our long time supporter, Costco Lake Zurich, who went above and beyond for our Stuff the Bus school supply drive by donating 768 backpacks with supplies inside, with another backpack donation expected later this summer. We are blown away by their generosity and support. Thank you for ensuring that many more local children will have the supplies they need to succeed this fall!
Women United’s Golf Fundraiser
On July 11, Women United hosted their golf fundraiser, Play A-Round for Lake County Kids, held at White Deer Run in Vernon Hills. The players enjoyed 18 holes, lunch and dinner, a silent auction, numerous contests, and games with an array of prizes. Nearly $20K was raised, thanks to our supporters and sponsors.
The event raised funds for Women United’s Little Kids, Big Futures Fund, which makes grants to early childhood education programs in Waukegan, Round Lake, Zion, and North Chicago. This year, Women United is celebrating their one million milestone of total monies raised and granted through their fund.
Thank you to the event chair, Judy Kotsiopoulos, and all the golfers, volunteers, and sponsors for making this a successful event!
We’re Hiring
We’re searching for the right person to join our team as Success By 6’s Initiative Coordinator. This position is responsible for coordinating and implementing several of our Success By 6 initiatives and projects. We are looking for someone who can speak English and Spanish.
We are also looking to hire a 211 intern. This intern will work with our Community Impact team to participate in planning activities and implementation of the 211 program within the Lake County community, including data collection, visiting locally owned businesses, attending community events, and developing related materials.
Wine and Learn About Women United
Are you looking for new ways to connect to amazing women in our community, new opportunities to volunteer and socialize, or new ways to make a measurable difference for those underserved in Lake County? Please join Women United on August 18 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Harbor Kitchen + Tap in Libertyville for a prospective member Wine & Learn.
Women United mobilizes more than 130 amazing women to ensure children living in Lake County’s challenged communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. In addition to caring deeply about this collective effort, we have a vibrant calendar of social, volunteer and philanthropic events to make it fun and doable regardless of your busy schedule.
Board Member Update
We are thrilled to welcome a new member to our 2022-23 Board of Directors: Lupe Rodriguez, Family Nurse Practitioner and Director of Community Care at Rosalind Franklin University. “Lupe’s leadership skills, knowledge of the communities we serve and genuine interest in our mission makes her an asset to our diverse board
and United Way of Lake County,” said Kristi Long, President & CEO.
Andrew Warrington, CEO of UCC Environmental, rejoins our Board of Directors and will also serve as Chair of the Finance & Administration Committee. We are delighted to have him back on the board!
A special thank you to outgoing board members, Kate Collins, Max Nemmers, Jesus Ruiz, Donnovan Young, and Carla Zuniga, for their dedicated service. Thank you to Donnovan Young who will remain on the 211 Advisory Council and continue to serve on our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee along with Kate Collins.
Women United Celebrates $1 Million Raised for Early Education
Women United announced that they will distribute $186,000 this year through their Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support nine critical early education programs. That means that Women United has also surpassed the $1 million milestone of money raised for early education in Lake County!
We are so proud of the work Women United does to help ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures of our community’s most vulnerable children.
Learn more about the 2022 Little Kids, Big Futures fund grantees:
Help Us Stuff the Bus!
Each year, kids across Lake County go back to school lacking the necessary supplies needed to thrive in school. The price for essential supplies is increasing and many low-income families struggle to afford everything on their child’s school supply list.
But together, we can make a difference!
Join our Stuff the Bus donation drive! By providing students with new school supplies, you’ll be helping prepare them for their academic studies, build their self-esteem and set them up for success. This is a cause worth getting involved in and we hope you’ll take part!
Now through July 7, you can contribute as an individual or your company can team up to make a difference! You can donate school supplies, make an online donation, or help us spread the word.
Play A-Round for Lake County Kids
Join Women United for their co-ed golf fundraiser “Play A-Round for Lake County Kids” on Monday, July 11 at White Deer Run Golf Club in Vernon Hills. This shotgun scramble golf fundraiser will support early childhood education in Lake County through Women United’s Little Kids, Big Futures Fund.
Last year’s golf outing was such a success, we can’t wait to welcome back our steadfast supporters and meet new friends for another fun day of great golf, food, competition and prizes at one of Lake County’s favorite courses.
Golf event tickets are $175 per person and include an on-course lunch and a buffet dinner. Golfers will register in twosomes or foursomes. Additional event details can be found on the registration page. Don’t golf? Join us for dinner! Tickets are $50.
Thank you, Monica!
UWLC Board Member, Monica Burmeister, has served as Chair of the Finance & Administration Committee since 2010. As chair, she worked with the committee to develop a Finance Committee Charter and recruited high-level volunteers with expertise in finance, accounting, and overall business management. Under her leadership, United Way has strengthened its financial position and has been in exceptional financial health earning a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.
Thank you for your extraordinary work and leadership, Monica!
Flip Through Our 2021 Annual Report
United Way of Lake County is excited to share our 2021 Annual Report. Flip through to see the collective impact you help make possible.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, corporate and community partner who helps us build a stronger Lake County community!
Partner Spotlight: College of Lake County
This month we’re shining a spotlight on College of Lake County (CLC). CLC is a public community college whose primary campus is located in Grayslake and other two campuses are in Vernon Hills and Waukegan.
UWLC has been partnering with CLC since 1994. We currently have two CLC leaders on our Board, Dr. Lori Suddick, CLC President, and Jesus Ruiz, Dean of the Lakeshore Campus. CLC staff have supported UWLC through giving campaigns, participated in volunteer events, such as creating hygiene kits for students experiencing home displacement, and they’ve also been a great partner in spreading the word about 211 through staff training and ongoing promotion to students.
We asked longtime supporter, Sue Fay, Executive Director of Human Resources at CLC, why she has chosen to support UWLC. “I am pleased to support United Way of Lake County through its partnership with College of Lake County. We share a focus on providing holistic support to the communities that we serve. Through United Way’s 211 helpline, the 24/7 access to information and referral services has and will continue to have a transformative impact on our students, employees and their families.”
Thank you, CLC, for your loyal support and for being an important part of the work we do to transform lives right here in Lake County.
Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund
We recently announced that $84,345 has been awarded in the ninth and final round of Lake County COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund grants to eight local nonprofits. This grant cycle focused on summer programs for children up to age thirteen that address learning loss through academics or enrichment programming and include activities or services that address children’s social-emotional needs due to the impact of the pandemic.
Since the fund was launched on March 20, 2020, a total of $1,201,662 has been raised and granted back into the community to 51 nonprofits so they could continue their work serving individuals and families most impacted by the pandemic. This ninth and final distribution leaves the fund at a zero balance,
ending the funding process.
Thank you to the hundreds of individuals and organizations who donated to the fund! United Way of Lake County remains committed to uniting leadership and resources to build a stronger, equitable community where everyone can thrive.
Celebrating Pride in Lake County
On June 4, we had the pleasure of sponsoring and participating in the LGBTQ+ Center’s PrideFest in Waukegan, alongside many of our community partners. That same day, we also had the opportunity to join in Waukegan’s Pride Drive, hosted by Waukegan Friends.
While celebrating progress, we understand how far we still have to go. Across the country, the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges, inequities and discrimination. If you are someone whom an LGBTQ+ person trusts with their whole selves, your encouragement matters and your love makes a difference.
UWLC Commemorates Juneteenth
United Way of Lake County gathered with the community on Saturday at the Juneteenth Festival of Lake County. Our staff and Board members participated in the Black Expo to share education opportunities and a wide range of health resources, financial assistance, employment services and more available through 211.
In celebration of Juneteenth, we honor the present and reflect on our shared history and tradition. Together, we are building a brighter, equitable future for all our children and families to thrive.
Introducing New Team Members
We recently welcomed two new people to our United Way family; Katie Martinez joined as our Donor Relations Specialist and Taylor Bellson joined as an Account Manager.
Learn more about Katie and Taylor’s roles, what they like to do in their free time, and how they connect with our programs by clicking their names below.
United Way of Lake County recently welcomed three new members to our 2021-22 Board of Directors: Sandi Johnson, Principal of Clearview Elementary School; Tara Thomas, Academic Enrichment Coordinator at Zion Elementary School District; and Capt. Jason J. Williamson, Commanding Officer at the Great Lakes Naval Station.
“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.”
Expanding the board has also been a key component of our DEI efforts, and we are honored to introduce our newest board members who bring a wealth of experience and offer deep connections to the communities we serve. We are proud to have such an accomplished group of leaders help steer United Way of Lake County forward and advance our commitment to building a more equitable Lake County.
Lake County’s Guide to Holiday Giving & Volunteering
Each holiday season, we publish our Holiday Guide that includes giving and volunteer opportunities throughout Lake County. The guide also includes agency wish lists and contact information for food pantries to help our neighbors in need.
When we work together to support our community, we all flourish, making Lake County a truly enviable place to live and work for all.
Save the Date! Double Your Impact for Our Neighbors in Need
Starting November 23, you can DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT for our neighbors and children who need help now more than ever.
A gift to United Way of Lake County will make it possible for us to have an even bigger impact on our local community to improve and save lives. This year, your gift goes further thanks to Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County who is matching all new or increased gifts up to $10K through December 23.
The tough work that is needed to help Lake County recover and rebuild is the work we do every day. We’re equipping local children, youth and families with tools to build a path to education and lifelong success, and we’re connecting people with life-changing support. When we put it all together, we’re reimagining a more equitable, resilient Lake County where everyone can thrive.
Watch for details next week!
United Way Ranked #1 Charitable Organization
United Way was recently ranked number one charity by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. The NonProfit Times also announced that United Way has moved up to the number two spot on their revenue rankings list for FY2020, and is number one in public support.
Power of the Purse Raises Record $67K for Early Education
Nearly 200 generous women joined forces both in person and virtually on Sunday, November 7, to raise a record total $67K in support of early education programs that will ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures for Lake County’s most vulnerable children.
The money was raised through Women United’s signature annual fundraising event, Power of the Purse, which celebrates women, friendship and philanthropy. This year’s Power of the Purse was a first-ever hybrid event with both a sold-out champagne brunch at Royal Melbourne Country Club and an online buying and bidding shopping experience featuring dozens of trendy designer bags, silent auction purses, baskets and items. In addition, women also had the opportunity to send underserved children to Kindergarten Countdown Camp for incoming kindergarten students with little to no preschool experience, as well as buy books and toys for preschool learning centers in Lake County’s low-income communities.
“We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this year’s event,” said event chair, Judy Kotsiopoulos. “It’s our most successful Power of the Purse to date and the first time we have held an in-person event with an online option. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm from our members and friends who truly care about early childhood education in Lake County.”
‘Wine and Learn’ About Women United
Finish 2021 with new possibilities! You’re invited to join Women United on December 7 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Zoom for our last Wine and Learn prospective member meeting of 2021.
Whether you have been wanting to learn more or just learned about Women United, we hope you will join us to hear how WU bring together amazing women, serves the community and has so much fun making a difference.
There is so much to share about this great group and the amazing women who make it special. Please RSVP by December 3 to Alina.Mozo@uwlakeco.org and she will send you the details.
Alight Adds Sensory Paths to Waukegan School
Volunteers from Alight installed two sensory paths at Glen Flora Elementary in Waukegan. A sensory path is a multipurpose tool for educators. It can help an overwhelmed student refocus and redirect nervous energy, enrich math and reading skills, and can be used as a reward or even for indoor play.
The Alight volunteers spent several hours preparing the components then placing them in a fun and engaging arrangement so that students can best benefit from these wonderful spaces. Thank you, Alight, for this wonderful gift to Glen Flora Elementary!
Hispanic Heritage Books Delivered to Schools
Our Hispanic Heritage Month Book Drive was a success! Funds from this drive allowed us to share more than 50 Spanish language books with East Elementary in Zion and Oakdale Elementary in Waukegan.
This drive helped to increase access to books promoting a positive equity message for young readers. Stories in a familiar language or with relatable characters only encourages the love of reading. Reading is one of the great equalizers in our society. A great book opens so many possibilities for children.
Thank you to all the donors who made these gifts possible.
211 in the News
Thank you to Comcast for shining a spotlight on United Way of Lake County’s 211! Watch Community Connection host Cindy Bravos interview Kristi Long to learn more about this vital community resource and the tremendous impact 211 has made in just two years. The segment is currently airing on Comcast OnDemand and CN100.TV.
We’re Hiring: VP, Community Impact
We are looking for an excellent leader to join our team as Vice President of Community Impact. If you know of anyone who might be a good fit, we encourage you to share this opportunity with them.
