07 Nov

October 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

211 Year Four Results and Impact

We are pleased to share our fourth annual report for 211 that summarizes the tremendous impact 211 continues to make, including another 79,088 connections to critical services and help!

The report provides a snapshot of the demographic data and top needs requested from 211 between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. The goal of this report is to share an overview of 211 data on top community needs and the populations we serve in Lake County, as well as trends and highlights throughout the year.

Creating Foundations, Building Futures

Women United recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity and joined other women volunteers in Lake County to start building two new homes in a Waukegan neighborhood being redeveloped. Our members left with full hearts knowing they helped build a brighter future for two women-led families in our community who will now have safe, affordable homeownership.

These efforts are an investment in our young children. Having a safe, stable place to call home is foundational to wellbeing and critical to children’s development. Children with a secure and nurturing home environment have a greater chance to thrive. For example, graduation rates are 19% higher for children of homeowners than for renters. And adults who own their own homes are more likely to pursue their own continued education.

We hope to continue to uplift these families on their educational journey.

View photos and video clips from the project by clicking below.

SUCCESS STORY
Writing Major

Meet Major. He is 5 years old. This summer, Major took part in our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) to learn key skills and prepare for kindergarten.

One key skill children need for kindergarten is being able to write the letters of their name. At KCC, students begin learning to write their name by tracing the letters over dotted lines.

Like many students attending KCC, Major found it difficult to hold a marker the correct way in order to write. Major’s KCC teachers worked each day to help Major enhance his hand-eye coordination and gain control over his marker. Every morning at KCC, Major would begin class by practicing with his classmates. After weeks of practice, Major learned how to hold his marker correctly. By the end of KCC, he was able to write his name successfully.

Through KCC, Major was able to build a key skill that is essential for successful learning in kindergarten.

Almost Sold Out: Power of the Purse!

Only a few tickets remain! Get your tickets by Friday, October 27.

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 Today: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars

Our free, bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are a great resource for families and educators. 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 using our online order form.

Start a Workplace Giving Campaign

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.

28 Sep

September 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

‘Stuff the Bus’ Exceeds Expectations

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 backpacks full 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.

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.

03 Aug

Women United Grants $186,000 to Early Education Programs

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Women United

Women United is Lake County’s premier women’s organization for strengthening the community through philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism while creating a meaningful sense of belonging. In May 2023, it was announced that Women United will distribute $186,000 through its Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support nine critical early education programs that will ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures for Lake County’s children.

The following programs will receive funding:

$84,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC)

Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake & Waukegan

Funding will support a summer learning program for 135 incoming kindergarteners with little to no preschool experience. Teaches social norms and builds key skills such as shapes, letters and counting.

$26,500 – B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program

Round Lake

Funding will support a bilingual early learning program for children, birth to three years old, with a focus on early literacy, healthy development and parent engagement.

$20,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Better Together program

Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago

This early learning program is for children birth to three years old and their caregivers. Each family receives resources and materials to learn, play and develop school readiness skills together. Funding will support 36 sessions. Each session will serve 10 – 12 families.

$15,000 – The Formative Years

Lake County

Funding will support the Family First Center of Lake County, which will provide bi-weekly sessions for parents and 46 children, birth to five years old, on basic skills and preschool enrichment activities to prepare them for school.

$15,000 – Mano a Mano

Lake County

Funding will support the Healthy Kids/Healthy Families initiative, which will expand literacy programs for families with children ages three to five years old through home visits.

$12,500 – Affirm Christian Leadership Academy

Waukegan

Funding will support the Early Literacy Leaders program that provides an academic foundation for girls; tailored to meet individual deficits and close the gap before kindergarten.

$9,000 –Mother’s Trust Foundation

Lake County

Funding will provide scholarships for children to increase access to early educational experiences and services, enrichment, and extracurricular programming including daycare and summer camp.

$8,000 – Early Learning Club Center

Waukegan Public Library

Funding will support an Early Learning Club Center, year round, designed to guide parents on being their child’s first teacher. Funding will support programs in English and Spanish.

$5,000 – HUGS Women United

Waukegan

Funding will support a community engagement initiative of Women United where members embrace the community with the resources and care it needs to succeed. This initiative will continue to provide Early Learning Club sessions at Whispering Oaks Apartments.

Women United of Lake County is a powerful network of more than 135 women who enable each other to leverage our passions, ideas, expertise, and resources to ensure children living in Lake County are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. Women United is a critical community within United Way of Lake County.

Thinking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Women United’s philanthropy is poised to continue to grow and mobilize community-minded women through leadership and resource development in order to expand its impact on early childhood education.

To learn how you can get involved in Women United of Lake County and to know about the Little Kids, Big Futures Philanthropy Fund Guidelines, please contact our Senior Manager of Women United & Donor Engagement, Jessica Ceisel, at Jessica.Ceisel@uwlakeco.org.

For more information about Women United, visit: www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/womenunited

30 Jun

June 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Celebrating Pride in Lake County

On June 10, we had the pleasure of sponsoring and participating in the LGBTQ+ Center’s PrideFest in Round Lake Beach, alongside many of our community partners. On June 17, 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.

Celebrating Freedom on 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 everyone in our community to thrive.

Painting a Brighter Future

Volunteers from Great Lakes Credit Union and Snap-on Credit joined us this month to paint and revitalize the Early Learning Trails at two elementary schools in Waukegan.

Early Learning Trails are publicly accessible outdoor learning games designed to develop children’s academic readiness and encourage active movement and play. The brightly painted trails marked by numbers, letters and shapes help children develop social, cognitive, and kinesthetic skills in a fun and safe space.

Thanks to our wonderful volunteers and generous partners, children in Lake County have access to dozens of these trails. View our list of Early Learning Trail and Sensory Path locations around Lake County by clicking below.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp in Zion

Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) is our free summer learning program for students entering kindergarten this fall who have limited preschool experience. There are a few spots available for students in the Zion School District. KCC in Zion runs from July 10–20 (Monday–Thursday), 8:00 a.m.–Noon, and is located at Elmwood Elementary School.

Students who attend KCC will adjust to the classroom setting, practice following directions and rules, and practice key kindergarten skills. KCC is a great opportunity to get your child prepared to succeed in kindergarten.

Interested? Fill out this form or click below to learn more.

Company Spotlight: FedEx

This month we are spotlighting FedEx, a great partner of United Way of Lake County. Since 2017, FedEx employees have generously donated both their time and money to support our community. For example, just this month, an amazing group from FedEx sponsored and installed a new Sensory Path at Oak Crest School in Beach Park.

Sensory Paths are colorful and engaging pathways used by children to explore a variety of sensory experiences. These indoor paths are a great tool to help children develop motor skills, self-regulation, balance, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness in a playful, safe space.

The group went above and beyond by bringing in the fantastic vendor, School Specialty, who generously donated another Sensory Path at Kenneth Murphy School in Beach Park, which FedEx installed this month as well. This collaboration has genuinely touched our hearts and will have a lasting impact on the students there.

Thank you, FedEx, for partnering with us to strengthen our Lake County community for all who live and work here. If you want to join FedEx and other companies to create a successful workplace campaign or volunteer opportunity, please reach out.

Help Us Stuff the Bus!

Each year, kids across Lake County go back to school lacking the supplies needed to succeed in school. The price for essential supplies is increasing and many families struggle to afford everything on their child’s school supply list.

But together, we can make a difference!

Join our Stuff the Bus community school supply 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 August 15, 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.

UW Board Member and Women United Leader Selected for the WU Global Leadership Council

Patrice Maloney-Knauff, a long-time devoted board member for United Way Lake County and founding member and leader of Women United Lake County, has been elected to the Women United Global Leadership Council.

We are so appreciative and proud of Patrice for her committed service. She will serve as one of 14 members of the Council from across the U.S. and Canada, focusing on mobilizing the power of Women United to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our local communities. Duties include providing strategic recommendations to United Way Worldwide and sharing effective practices throughout Women United.

Patrice’s initial term is for three years, which includes monthly meetings including two in person annually. She and our Manager of Donor Engagement and Women United, Jessica Ceisel, attended the first in-person session in Houston just last month. Congratulations and thank you, Patrice!

Announcing United Way of Lake County’s Core Values

As United Way of Lake County continues to grow, evolve and transform to best serve the changing environment and needs of our Lake County community, we recognize it’s important to redefine our organization’s core values and the commitments that help create our desired culture and guide our decision-making and actions.

UWLC’s core values represent our identity and reflect who we are and how we want to be recognized both internally and externally. They are the foundation upon which our culture continues to thrive and will help us achieve long-term success.

These core values define what’s important to us at UWLC:

IMPACT. We deliver measurable programs to build a strong, equitable community where everyone can thrive.
RESPECT. We lead with integrity and foster an inclusive and diverse culture where everyone feels appreciated, safe and heard.
COLLABORATION. We leverage the expertise and experience of our staff, volunteers and partners to achieve shared goals and multiply our impact.
INNOVATION. We cultivate an environment that encourages thoughtful, creative and inspirational actions that lead to effective solutions.
OPTIMISM. We are enthusiastic and positive about our work and celebrate our successes.

Our process for getting here was based on input from the entire organization, including board members, management team and staff, to not only articulate a set of core values but also any operational changes needed. We are so proud of what we do to help unite and strengthen our Lake County community and are incorporating these values into our daily lives to truly live by them.

This month we introduced our new Board Chair,

Joe Garnett, and thanked our previous Board Chair, Mark Schweitzer, for his leadership. We also welcomed J. Kevin Hunter, Lake County Board Member, to our Board of Directors, and Jesus Ruiz, Dean of Lakeshore Campus, College of Lake County, who has rejoined our board and we are delighted to have him back!

A special thank you to outgoing board members, Nancy Coolley, Monica Burmeister, Patrice Maloney-Knauff (pictured on the right), and Capt. Jason J. Williamson, for their dedicated service.

Flip Through Our 2022 Annual Report

United Way of Lake County is pleased to share our 2022 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!

11 May

April 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

We Love Our Volunteers!

It’s National Volunteer Month and we’d like to take this time to recognize all of the selfless individuals who lend their time, talent, and support to serve our community. As an organization that relies heavily on volunteers to carry out its mission, this annual celebration is near and dear to our hearts. Day in and day out, our volunteers help enrich the lives of those in need and help build a strong, equitable Lake County where everyone can thrive. Without volunteers, our work is simply not possible. Thank you!

Exploring Science on Earth Day

United Way of Lake County’s Science Speaker initiative brings scientists from local companies to speak with Waukegan students about the field of science and present unique, engaging and interactive learning experiences.

In honor of Earth Day, Science Speakers returned to Glenwood Elementary. A wonderful group of AbbVie scientists helped 5th-grade students dive into the captivating world of chromatography, which is a process for separating components of a mixture. By understanding more about chromatography, we can better appreciate the importance of keeping our environment clean and healthy.

The scientists showed students how to explore the hidden colors in markers and learn how nature creates breathtaking hues by combining different components. Students conducted a hands-on experiment, uncovering the secrets of chromatography and discovering the amazing physics behind how trees and plants drink water.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) is our free summer learning program for children entering kindergarten this fall who have little to no preschool experience. Children who attend KCC will adjust to the classroom setting, practice following directions and rules, and practice key kindergarten skills. KCC is a great opportunity to get your child prepared to succeed in kindergarten.

Registration is now open for students in the Beach Park, Round Lake, Waukegan and Zion school districts. KCC in Beach Park runs from June 5 – 22, Round Lake runs from June 5 – 29, and Waukegan runs from June 5 – 29 and Zion runs July 10 – 20.

Interested? Fill out the form for your school district at the link below.

“Wine & Learn” About Women United

Looking for new ways to connect with amazing women in our community, new opportunities to volunteer and socialize, or new ways to make a measurable difference for children and families in Lake County?

Join Women United for a prospective member Wine & Learn on May 4 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Corked Wine Bar in Long Grove. RSVP by emailing Alina.Mozo@uwlakeco.org.

Women United mobilizes more than 130 women to ensure children living in Lake County are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. In addition to caring deeply about this collective effort, they have a vibrant calendar of social, volunteer and philanthropic events to make it fun and doable regardless of your busy schedule.

Bond with Your Baby Using “Bright by Text”

Bright by Text has a new program to support new parents in their journey. Parents and caregivers of children ages 0-1 can text the word BOND to 274-448 for free text messages, in English and Spanish, with tips for bonding with their baby and taking care of themselves. Weekly messages share tips for helping new parents bond with their baby and keep both parent and child happy and healthy.

Every Child Deserves a Safe Childhood

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and we have partnered with the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center (LCCAC) to help keep every child safe. LCCAC’s Blue Kids Program creates awareness about child abuse in Lake County and encourages parents, teachers, and members of the community to engage youth and encourage education on the topic.

LCCAC has resources for youth, parents, schools, law enforcement, business and more. We encourage you to visit LCCAC’s website.

We’re Hiring: 211 Manager

We are seeking an innovative individual passionate about serving others to develop and lead a team in ensuring that 211 Lake County excels in the delivery of referral services and information to the residents of Lake County. The 211 Manager will be responsible for ensuring that 211 Lake County provides a positive experience for individuals, non-profit organizations and government agencies and is a valued partner to stakeholders throughout the county.

31 Mar

March 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Celebrating Read Across America

In early March, community and corporate volunteers gathered to share the joy of reading with students at Howe Elementary in Beach Park and at Pleviak Elementary in Lake Villa.

The volunteers read stories that amplified this year’s theme, Bringing Communities Together, in both English and Spanish. Each reader shared about their jobs and roles in the community. Then all the books were given to the teachers so that they could continue to grow their classroom libraries.

Teachers love this interaction because it helps to provide a model of reading fluency, introduces new vocabulary, and helps to increase attention spans in our young learners. Our readers also help children see themselves in books, feel validated and confident, and have pride in their experiences and cultures.

Thank you to all our incredible volunteer readers for sharing their love of reading with these students! View photos from both events below.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Registration is now open for students in the Beach Park, Round Lake and Waukegan school districts. KCC in Beach Park runs from June 5 – 22, Round Lake runs from June 5 – 29, and Waukegan runs from June 5 – 29.

Interested? Fill out the form for your school district at the link below.

Another Successful Year of Mentoring Middle Schoolers

Leaders United, our affinity group of young professionals, recently wrapped up another successful year of their mentoring program called Breakfast Club with the 8th graders at Robert Abbott Middle School in Waukegan.

The students were eager to participate in each session and the conversations were meaningful. They engaged in discussions around topics to support mental wellness and social-emotional learning. We are proud that these students are leaving middle school with more of the tools they need to successfully overcome obstacles as they transition into high school.

To celebrate the students and prepare them for their next steps, each student was gifted with Waukegan High School spirit wear. Each student was also given a journal to keep track of their journey and earbuds to use for their assessments and testing. We are wishing these students much success in high school and beyond!

Thank you to Medline for your support of this program!

Women United’s Corporate Future Leaders of Color Closes Inaugural Year On a High Note

The eleven strong women who took the risk to join the first-ever cohort of Women United’s Corporate Future Leaders of Color program celebrated the end of a wonderful year with their mentors and other United Way supporters on March 14.

The program offered networking, community service, leadership, social, and mentorship opportunities to these women whose companies sponsored their $1,000 investment in Women United. Through a community service project sponsored by AbbVie, one-on-one personalized mentoring meetings, and a series of unique Success Seminars focused on strengths, these leaders grew in their confidence to step into their own leadership professionally and in the community.

Everyone involved enjoyed and learned so much from the program, and Women United is proud to announce they’ll launch a second cohort this coming fall. If you’d like to be a cohort member, mentor, or if you’re a business leader who wishes to invest in one of your up-and-coming women of color, please reach out to Jessica Ceisel at Jessica.Ceisel@uwlakeco.org.

Help Us Win $15K!

Help us win up to $15K from Old National Bank! Old National is donating $500K to community nonprofits in Illinois, Iowa, Northwest Indiana and select areas of Southeast Wisconsin. Use the link below to vote for United Way of Lake County once a day thru March 31!

Black History Month Reading Day in Waukegan

In honor of Black History Month, Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU) partnered with us to coordinate a special reading day at North Elementary in Waukegan. This event brought GLCU readers into classrooms to share stories that celebrated Black characters, culture and traditions. GLCU sponsored all the books, which were given to the school after the event. Each student also received a copy of the book “Nigel and the Moon” to take home to build their at-home book collection and encourage reading outside of school.

Thank you, GLCU, for being such a strong supporter of Black History Month and our Lake County community!

Aon Serving the Community

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Aon volunteers spent time at Keeping Families Covered where they collected items to share with local families. During their time on site, the volunteers helped with packing diapers and sorting clothing in preparation for future community distributions.

Aon is also gearing up for their Employee Giving Campaign next month. Since 1996, Aon employees have been generous supporters not only with their donations but also with their time. Aon continues to be a great supporter of our work and events.

Thank you to Aon and all the Aon volunteers for taking the time to support our Lake County families! We would also like to thank Michelle Hansen, Senior Partner at Aon and UWLC Board Member, for helping to coordinate this wonderful volunteer event.

Honoring Gale Graves’ Impact

Gale Graves, our VP of Community Impact, was recently honored as a local hero for her work in breaking barriers and impacting the next generation of African American leaders in Lake County. Congratulations, Gale! Thank you to the scholars at Affirm Leadership Christian Academy for recognizing Gale’s impact in the community.

We’re Hiring: 211 Manager

14 Nov

October 2022 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

211 Year Three Results and Impact

We are pleased to share our third annual report for 211 that summarizes the tremendous impact 211 continues to make, including another 57,374 connections to critical services and help!

The report is now available for download and provides a snapshot of the demographic data and top needs requested from 211 between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022. The goal of this report is to share an overview of 211 data on top community needs and the populations we serve in Lake County, as well as trends and highlights throughout the year.

On October 17, we celebrated the third anniversary of 211 services for Lake County with a virtual event highlighting 211’s measurable year-three results and impact. We are thrilled with the number of community members who joined us to learn more about 211 and how it is benefiting Lake County. We are grateful to our host/moderator, expert panel, and 211 leadership team who shared data, insights and real-life stories of how 211 is making a difference every day.

In case you missed it, you can watch a recording of the event on YouTube below.

UWLC Receives Grant from Highland Park Community Foundation

United Way of Lake County was recently awarded a grant by the Highland Park Community Foundation. The grant will support our 211 helpline that connects people in our community to local health and human services.

211 is here to answer the call every day and in times of crisis. We are proud to have supported the community throughout the pandemic and in response to the July 4th shooting tragedy. Thank you, Highland Park Community Foundation, for your generous support of 211!

Little Kids, Big Feelings Event

On October 15, Women United hosted an event called “Little Kids, Big Feelings” at the Whispering Oaks apartment complex in Waukegan. Building on the theme of Social Emotional Learning as introduced by their Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Initiative during a September educational forum, the HUGS Committee took the reins and brought the book, Feelings by Todd Parr to the little ones at Whispering Oaks.

A special thank you to Rosalind Franklin University for sending the Community Care Coach bus so families could get free flu shots, blood pressure tests and blood sugar tests.

We love working with the families there who are doing everything right to put their children on the path to academic success. Look how much fun we all had!

Don’t Miss Out on 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.

SUCCESS STORY: Kindergarten Countdown Camp

This summer, Dayana entered our Kindergarten Countdown Camp as the shyest and most quiet student in her class. Within just a few days, Dayana began confidently belting out the alphabet and leading the class number song!

KCC is a free summer learning program for incoming kindergarten students who have little to no preschool experience. Through KCC, licensed teacher, Mrs. Monbrod, worked with Dayana and her classmates to build key kindergarten readiness skills like writing her name, counting 10 objects and learning her ABCs. Dayana’s skills improved from “beginning” to “in progress” by the end of the summer.

Through KCC, Dayana gained the skills she needed to be on track with her peers and ready to succeed (and sing!) when she entered her first day of kindergarten.

Company Spotlight: Nexus Pharmaceuticals

Nexus Pharmaceuticals is a family-owned and minority-owned company located in Lake County. While Nexus is a newer supporter of United Way of Lake County, it is already becoming one of our most generous corporate partners. We are thrilled to spotlight their incredible commitment to giving back and the impact they are making right here in our community.

Nexus has generously supported our education programs and 211 helpline through sponsorship of our annual Premier Leaders Event. Nexus employees have also been very generous with their time and have partnered with us to complete a variety of community service projects, including painting the Midwest Veterans Closet and installing Sensory Paths and Early Learning Trails at local schools and libraries.
We asked Nexus why they choose to partner with us, and this is what they said:

“We are proud to support United Way of Lake County’s vast initiatives that benefit the lives of so many in Lake County. With our own families and employees living and working in this community, we value and seek to be stewards of service and support to the families that benefit from United Way. Giving back and having a purpose-driven mission mirrors both United Way’s mission as well as our own company mission at Nexus Pharmaceuticals. We seek to be an active partner in the community for various philanthropic initiatives and echo United Way’s efforts in furthering education and investing in the positive development of our community’s youth.”

Thank you, Nexus, for partnering with us to address critical community needs and build a stronger, equitable Lake County!

If you’re interested in joining Nexus and other companies to create a successful workplace campaign or volunteer opportunity, please reach out.

14 Jun

Women United Allocates $1,000,000 in Eight Years to Early Education Programs

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Women United

Women United is Lake County’s premier women’s organization for strengthening the community through philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism while creating a meaningful sense of belonging. Just this month, it was announced that Women United will distribute $186,000 through its Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support nine critical early education programs that will ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures for Lake County’s most vulnerable children. 2022 marks the $1,000,000 milestone in grants to education programs across Lake County, IL!

The following programs will receive funding:

$80,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC)

Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake & Waukegan

Funding will support an in-person summer learning program for 155 incoming kindergartners with little to no preschool experience. In addition to teaching social classroom norms, the goal is to build key foundational skills such as learning shapes, letters, counting, and name writing.

$27,000 – B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program

Round Lake

Funding will continue to allow this Round Lake Park District program to provide 20 scholarships for children who otherwise would not have access to preschool. With this opportunity, children will be prepared for kindergarten and ready to learn.

$18,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Better Together program

Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago

$15,000 – The Formative Years

Lake County

$15,000 – Mano a Mano

Lake County

Funding will support the Healthy Kids/Healthy Families initiative, which will expand literacy programs for families with children ages three to five years old through home visits. They aim to serve 29 families.

$10,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Early Learning Clubs

Waukegan Public Library

Early Learning Clubs provide bilingual opportunities for children to learn basic skills while their parents are empowered to be their child’s first teacher. Curbside pick-up of learning materials will connect more children to Early Learning Clubs.

$9,000 – Laundry Literacy

Waukegan and Zion

Funding will provide monthly programming in local laundromats and will include storytime, sing-alongs, early literacy skills, and parent-child interactions to connect with families where they gather. Designed to help prepare children for kindergarten, the program aims to serve 200 – 250 children annually.

$7,000 – Bright by Text

Lake County

Bright by Text is a national bilingual texting program that puts expert tips, games, and child development information in the hands of caregivers. Bright by Text partners with experts such as PBS, Sesame Street, the CDC, and others to develop content for families with children ages prenatal to eight.

$5,000 – HUGS/North Preschool Partnership

Waukegan

HUGS (Heroines United for Giving and Support) is a community engagement initiative of Women United where members embrace a school, project, or community with the resources and care it needs to succeed. This initiative continues to provide Early Learning Clubs at Whispering Oaks Apartments in Waukegan.

Women United of Lake County is a powerful network of over 115 women who enable each other to leverage our passions, ideas, expertise, and resources to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. Women United is a critical community within United Way of Lake County.

Thinking ahead to 2023 and beyond, Women United’s philanthropy is poised to continue to grow and mobilize community-minded women through leadership and resource development in order to expand its impact on early childhood education.

To learn how you can get involved in Women United of Lake County and to know about the Little Kids, Big Futures Philanthropy Fund Guidelines, please contact our Manager of Women United, Diana Nielander, at Diana.Nielander@uwlakeco.org.

For more information about Women United, visit: www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/womenunited

01 Jun

April 2022 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Thank You, Volunteers!

This week is National Volunteer Week and we’d like to take this time to recognize all of the selfless individuals who lend their time, talent, and support to serve our community. As an organization that relies heavily on volunteers to carry out its mission, this annual week of celebration is near and dear to our hearts. Day in and day out, our volunteers help enrich the lives of those in need and build a stronger, more equitable community. Without volunteers, our work is simply not possible.

211 to Expand Beyond Lake County

We are excited to share that the Illinois 2023 Legislative Budget has included a grant to begin expanding 211 services to all counties in Illinois! Our Lake County 211 team is ecstatic to be a part of this incredible journey to better support our neighbors all across Illinois. To view the full story, as published in the Daily Herald, click below.

If you’d like to receive monthly email updates about Lake County’s 211 helpline, click here.

Introducing Gale Graves!

We are pleased to introduce our new Vice President of Community Impact, Gale Graves! In her role, Gale will develop community solutions through collaboration and strong diverse partnerships to deliver measurable, purposeful programs and initiatives. Learn more about Gale, including what made her want to join our team, by clicking below.

UWLC Donates 800 Diverse Books for Local Students

We were proud to present more than 800 books in English and Spanish for grades K-5 at North Elementary School in Waukegan. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to our Read Across America Book Drive and to our partners—the 19th Judicial Circuit Court of Illinois, the Lake County Bar Association, and the Association of Women Attorneys of Lake County! Now more children will have access to culturally diverse books.

“I am constantly impressed with United Way of Lake County’s community efforts and contributions. My students have benefited greatly over the years due to the Reading Success Program. Not only are they getting quality reading support but they also get the opportunity to interact with a community member in an engaging way. This recent book donation with an emphasis on equity is just another example of United Way’s commitment to education for all.” – Jenny Chang-West, M.Ed., First Grade Teacher, North Elementary School

Company Spotlight: CF Industries

This month we’re shining a spotlight on CF Industries, a leading global manufacturer of hydrogen and nitrogen products. The company, headquartered in Deerfield, has as its mission to provide clean energy to feed and fuel the world sustainably.

CF Industries has a long history of corporate philanthropy and a culture that prides itself on giving back. For more than 25 years, CF Industries has partnered with United Way of Lake County through its workplace giving campaign to unite employees in support of our local community. Since 1996, employees have invested more than $400K to help us create positive change and build a stronger Lake County. Additionally, the company has matched these funds by investing more than $165K!

“The work that the United Way of Lake County does is one of the reasons we are proud to call Lake County the home of CF Industries. We are pleased to continue to support United Way’s efforts, and look forward to celebrating the lasting change achieved in the years ahead.” – Sue Menzel, Senior Vice President, Human Resources at CF Industries

Thank you, CF Industries, for your loyal support and for fueling the important work we do to transform lives right here in Lake County.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) is our free summer learning program for children entering kindergarten this fall who have little to no preschool experience. Children who attend KCC will adjust to the classroom setting, practice following directions and rules, and practice key kindergarten skills. KCC is a great opportunity to get your child prepared to succeed in kindergarten.

Registration is still open for students in the North Chicago, Round Lake and Waukegan school districts. KCC in North Chicago runs from June 21–July 28, Round Lake runs from June 7–June 30, and Waukegan runs from June 6–June 30.

Interested? Fill out the registration form for your school district at the link below.

Lunch and Learn About Women United

If you are 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 May 5 from Noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom for a prospective member Lunch and Learn.

Women United mobilizes more than 120 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.

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 also looking to hire a Kindergarten Readiness Coordinator to assist with this summer’s Kindergarten Countdown Camps. This is a full-time, temporary position from May to August, 2022.

Women United’s Corporate Future Leaders of Color

Corporate Future Leaders of Color (CFLoC), a project of Women United’s Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Initiative, is a year-long cohort-based program that provides networking, community service, leadership, social and mentorship opportunities by engaging and developing Lake County’s women leaders of color who demonstrate leadership potential.

Our inaugural CFLoC cohort will begin this month and is made up of 11 women who are passionate about making a difference in Lake County. These women have been hand-picked from Sysmex, AbbVie, Great Lakes Credit Union, Libertyville School District 128, AON, Waukegan Public Schools, and Alight Solutions.

“We can’t wait to welcome these leaders into the group, and we especially look forward to learning from and with them as we keep working toward our mission of a Lake County where all children start out with what they need to succeed in school.” – Lori Miller, Chair of Women United

28 Mar

March 2022 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Celebrating Read Across America Day

In early March, community and corporate volunteer readers gathered in person and virtually to share the joy of reading with elementary school students at Pleviak in Lake Villa, Little Fort in Waukegan and East in Zion. Throughout the week, 62 volunteers read to more than 1,050 pre-K to third-grade students.

Thank you to all our incredible volunteer readers for sharing their love of reading with these students! We created a video slideshow with photos from all three locations. Check it out below.

Thank you to Internet Essentials for sponsoring this event!

UWLC Receives Community Service Award

The Waukegan Park District recently presented United Way of Lake County with a Community Service Award for our support of their Before & After School Experience (B.A.S.E.) Program for elementary school students. Our funding helped keep the cost of the program affordable for local families.

Thank you, Waukegan Park District! We appreciate your wonderful partnership and recognition of our impact on children in the Waukegan community.

Watch the award presentation in the video below.

Read Across America Book Drive

In February, we partnered with the 19th Judicial Circuit Court of Illinois, the Lake County Bar Association and the Association of Women Attorneys of Lake County (AWALC) to conduct a book drive that aimed to increase local elementary school children’s access to books promoting a positive equity message.

Many community members contributed to our online fund and both the Lake County Bar Association and the AWALC presented us with $1,000 checks. We are proud to announce that we were able to raise $3,117!

A huge thank you to our partners and everyone who contributed! Now more children will have access to books by diverse authors and that feature diverse characters. We will soon be dropping off 856 books in English and Spanish for grades K-5 at North Elementary in Waukegan. Keep an eye on our social media pages because we plan to share photos from the drop-off soon.

Breakfast Club Sessions Back In Person

Leaders United members have returned to Robert Abbott Middle School to start up their Breakfast Club sessions with a select group of 8th-grade students. This program offers before-school mentorship and tutoring. Through bi-monthly engagement, RAMS Scholars are provided support to help them prepare for the transition from middle school to high school and build skills that will lead to lifelong, healthy habits.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Registration is now open for students in the Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake and Waukegan school districts. KCC in Gurnee runs from June 13–July 8, North Chicago runs from June 21–July 28, Round Lake runs from June 7–June 30, and Waukegan runs from June 6–June 30.

Interested? Fill out the registration form for your school district at the link below.

Company Spotlight: Medline

Medline, based in Northfield, Illinois, has supported and partnered with United Way of Lake County for many years. Most recently, Medline provided its annual donation to UWLC, which helps support vital programs right here in our community. Medline employees also volunteer their time, providing additional and personal support for these programs.

Medline volunteers support many UWLC initiatives, including community events, collection drives and our Leaders United group. During this past fall, Medline volunteers collected over four pallets of essentials for A Safe Place, including diapers, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste. During the winter, over 20 Medline employees fulfilled community wish lists by donating items such as winter clothing, books and toys.

Medline sponsors young leaders in their organization to participate in our Leaders United group, which enables long-term growth and professional development. Adding three new members in 2022, the eight Medline mentors will assist in developing young leaders in the community. They do this through the following Leaders United initiatives:

Waukegan to College events: Medline leaders support first-generation high school students from Waukegan, helping them to uncover and showcase their leadership skills.
Breakfast Club: Medline leaders support this mentoring program in partnership with Robert Abbott Middle School in Waukegan.
Read Across America: Medline leaders read virtually to students at East Elementary School in Zion.

“Volunteering is one of the greatest ways we have been able to support United Way of Lake County as their programs and initiatives continue to provide essential and emergency resources needed by the community,” said Karen Frey, philanthropy manager at Medline.

We are grateful for our partnership with Medline and look forward to many more years of collaboration. Thank you for helping us build a stronger Lake County for everyone who lives and works here!

Follow Leaders United on Instagram

Leaders United has joined Instagram to further connect with new members and keep the community up-to-date on their great work in the community. Check out their profile below!

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Tag: Kindergarten Countdown Camp

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Board Member Update

United Way of Lake County Ambassador Program

The following programs will receive funding:

$84,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC)

Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake & Waukegan

$26,500 – B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program

Round Lake

$20,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Better Together program

Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago

$15,000 – The Formative Years

Lake County

$15,000 – Mano a Mano

Lake County

$12,500 – Affirm Christian Leadership Academy

Waukegan

$9,000 –Mother’s Trust Foundation

Lake County

$8,000 – Early Learning Club Center

Waukegan Public Library

$5,000 – HUGS Women United

Waukegan

Celebrating Pride in Lake County

Celebrating Freedom on Juneteenth

Painting a Brighter Future

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp in Zion

Company Spotlight: FedEx

Help Us Stuff the Bus!

UW Board Member and Women United Leader Selected for the WU Global Leadership Council

Announcing United Way of Lake County’s Core Values

Flip Through Our 2022 Annual Report

We Love Our Volunteers!

Exploring Science on Earth Day

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

“Wine & Learn” About Women United

Bond with Your Baby Using “Bright by Text”

Every Child Deserves a Safe Childhood

We’re Hiring: 211 Manager

Celebrating Read Across America

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Another Successful Year of Mentoring Middle Schoolers

Women United’s Corporate Future Leaders of Color Closes Inaugural Year On a High Note

Help Us Win $15K!

Black History Month Reading Day in Waukegan

Aon Serving the Community

Honoring Gale Graves’ Impact

We’re Hiring: 211 Manager

211 Year Three Results and Impact

UWLC Receives Grant from Highland Park Community Foundation

Little Kids, Big Feelings Event

Don’t Miss Out on Power of the Purse!

SUCCESS STORY: Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Company Spotlight: Nexus Pharmaceuticals

The following programs will receive funding:

$80,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC)

Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake & Waukegan

$27,000 – B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program

Round Lake

$18,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Better Together program

Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago

$15,000 – The Formative Years

Lake County

$15,000 – Mano a Mano

Lake County

$10,000 – United Way of Lake County’s Early Learning Clubs

Waukegan Public Library

$9,000 – Laundry Literacy

Waukegan and Zion

SUCCESS STORY
Writing Major

SUCCESS STORY
Alan: Becoming a Model Student