Tag: LIVEUNITED

28 Aug

August 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

Introducing Our 2018 Campaign Video

We are thrilled to share our new campaign video! Because of you, we are helping alter the trajectory of a child’s life by investing in them during the most critical years of their development and creating a path towards prosperity.

A special thank you to Daugherty Business Solutions for their time and work to bring our programs to life in this video. Check it out below!

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Caterpillar: New to Lake County and Already Giving Back

On August 14, a group of 20 volunteers from Caterpillar created an Early Learning Trail at East Elementary in Zion. Early Learning Trails are great because they can spark meaningful learning moments for a child as they begin their first day of school.

Welcome to Lake County, Caterpillar, and thank you for making a difference in the community!

Watch a slideshow of photos from the volunteer event by clicking below.

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Lake County Townships Come Together to Invest in 2-1-1

United Way of Lake County is engaging local townships to invest in 2-1-1, an information and referral service available 24/7 through phone, chat and email.

Currently, 94% of the United States has an established 2-1-1 program. Unfortunately, Illinois has less than 30% coverage with no coverage in Lake County. Implementing 2-1-1 would transform the way Lake County residents access critical information and resources in time of need.

United Way, alongside participating townships, have begun building a coalition of support for 2-1-1.

Currently, over $42,000 has been raised from the following townships:

  • Benton Township
  • Libertyville Township
  • Vernon Township
  • Warren Township
  • Waukegan Township
  • West Deerfield Township
  • Zion Township

In addition to building the township coalition, United Way is working with the Lake County Government, local businesses and individual donors in the community to fund the launch of 2-1-1.

Working together, we can bring 2-1-1 to Lake County and transform the way our residents get help and set the new standard for 2-1-1 in Illinois. To learn more about bringing 2-1-1 to Lake County and ways to get involved, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/211. To support the pending launch of 2-1-1, click below.

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Volunteer as a Reading Success Tutor

Do you enjoy working with elementary-age children? Do you want to make a difference in the community you live in or near? United Way of Lake County’s Reading Success Program welcomes you!

Learn about the requirements to become a tutor and more in this NEW video!

If you are interested in volunteering as a Reading Success tutor, simply fill out this online form with your basic information. Our volunteer coordinator will call or email you with more information in a few days. Volunteering begins in late September and early October and runs through the end of May.

For more information, please contact Sue at sue.baehr@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1032.

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Kindergarten Countdown Camp Comes to a Close

Over the course of the summer, idle, low-income students lose two to three months worth of reading skills compared to students who are non-low-income. The National Summer Learning Association describes this trend as “summer learning loss”. To address the summer learning loss, United Way developed Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC), an initiative, under our Success By 6 Program, designed to bridge the gap for Lake County’s youngest learners.

Just this summer, KCC served 100 students at 4 schools throughout Lake County. Now 100 kids have the basic skills they need to start school off on the right foot!

You can hear from several different people involved with KCC, such as teachers, parents and volunteers, by checking out the blog series linked below.

We also had the opportunity to film a KCC classroom participating in an interactive mud and water activity coordinated by Kohl Children’s Museum. View the Facebook LIVE video here.

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Women United Raised $12,500 at Bingo Event

On August 4, Women United’s “Booze, Bites, Beats & Bingo” fundraising event raised $12,500 to support critical early literacy programs through their Little Kids, Big Futures Fund! Since 2014, Women United has distributed over $370,000 to worthy nonprofits to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Thank you to all of the donors and attendees who helped make the event a success, and a special thank you to the following sponsors:

View photos of the event by clicking the button below.

Summer Intern Spotlight

United Way of Lake County relies heavily on the work of volunteers to help make an impact in local communities. This includes our interns who are ready to volunteer their time and effort to help make a difference. These interns are a valuable part of what we do and how we do it.

This summer, we had the pleasure of working with three bright, young women: Amy Juarez, Emma Paukert, and Anna Kedjidjian. Click on each of their names to learn more about them and the work they did for us.

Interested in interning with us? Click the button below to learn more.

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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.

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25 Jul

July 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

Premier Leadership Event Raises Over $210,000 For Our Education Programs

On June 26, Lake County civic and business leaders gathered for our fifth annual Premier Leadership Event at the Warbird Heritage Foundation in Waukegan. We are proud to share that over $210,000 was raised to support United Way’s education programs and the pending launch of 2-1-1 thanks to the generosity of our guests and sponsors.

We would like to say a special thank you to Paul Wood, Skip Goss and Herwig Schmidts for their hospitality and partnership to make our Premier Leadership Event happen.

A special thank you goes to the following event sponsors for their support:

Click the button below to view a video recap of the event. Click here to view all of the photos from the night.

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Join in on the Summer FUNdraiser!

Grab your friends and join Women United for a night of summer fun to support early childhood literacy in Lake County. On Saturday, August 4, Women United invites you to their Booze, Bites, Beats and Bingo event at the North Shore Distillery in Lake Bluff.

There will be something for everyone:

  • Live band
  • BINGO
  • Custom cocktails (with and without alcohol)
  • Cocktail making demonstration
  • Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Simulator
  • Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, prizes and more!

All proceeds will support critical early prevention and early literacy programs through their Little Kids, Big Futures Fund. Since 2014, Women United has distributed over $370,000 to worthy nonprofits to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Tickets are available now. Click the button below to buy your tickets.

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Volunteers in Action: Snap-On Credit

On July 11, a group of 20 volunteers from Snap-On Credit helped paint Early Learning Trails outside the Robert W. Rolek Community Center in Round Lake. Early Learning Trails are great because they can spark meaningful learning moments for a child as they begin their first day of school.

Thank you, Snap-On Credit! Together, we are transforming communities and expanding our impact to ensure that kids entering kindergarten today receive the support they need to be successful in school and life.

Watch a slideshow of photos from this volunteer event by clicking below.

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Program Highlight: Kindergarten Countdown Camp in Round Lake

Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC), an initiative under our Success By 6 Program, was designed to bridge the “opportunity gap” for Lake County’s youngest learners. These free camps are open to incoming kindergartners with little to no preschool experience nor have been in a classroom setting. This summer, we have KCCs in four communities, including Round Lake, where we are serving 29 students.

Round Lake’s KCC is taking place at Pleviak Elementary School. We recently spoke with the principal at Pleviak, Jason Smith. One of the questions we asked him is why he thinks it’s so important for children to be on track and ready to learn when first starting kindergarten. He had this to say:

“Recent research has shown that students that lack any formal preschool experience often start kindergarten at a disadvantage when it comes to basic literacy, numeracy, social and emotional skills. The more that parents can do to prepare their children for their first formal year in education, the better! A successful year of kindergarten often translates to success in elementary school and beyond.”

Read Jason’s full Q & A by clicking below.

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Program Highlight: Kindergarten Countdown Camp in North Chicago

This summer, we are providing Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) in four communities, including North Chicago.

Since 2016, Women United has built a strong partnership with the North Chicago community, providing resources and funding to support many early childhood programs at the Green Bay Early Childhood Center. Earlier this year, Women United allocated $60,000 to KCC, which allowed the program to expand into the North Chicago and Round Lake communities. Members of Women United also get involved in KCC by volunteering their time as “Reading Buddies”.

Diana Nielander, Women United’s Affinity Group Manager, had this to say about KCC:

“We are thankful to have worked within the North Chicago community over the past few years. We loved getting into Green Bay Early Childhood Center and providing some of the resources needed to enhance the children’s learning experiences. We are proud to be able to continue our presence there now and provide additional funding for exceptional programs. We believe that these layered services have the biggest impact.”

Read more about Women United’s connection to KCC and the North Chicago community by clicking below.

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Become a Reading Success Tutor

Do you enjoy working with elementary-age children? Do you want to make a difference in the community you live in or near? United Way of Lake County’s Reading Success Program welcomes you! Our program serves elementary schools in Waukegan and we place volunteers in first through third grade classrooms. No prior experience is required. We are always in need of bilingual Spanish speaking volunteers. To be a volunteer tutor, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Pass a background check
  • Commit to 1 hour per week in the classroom

If you are interested in volunteering as a Reading Success tutor, simply fill out this online form with your basic information. Our volunteer coordinator will call or email you with more information in a few days. Volunteering begins in late September and early October. Our program runs through the end of May.

For more information, please contact Sue at sue.baehr@uwlakeco.org or
(847) 775-1032.

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Learn More About Women United at Wine & Learn

Women United invites you to attend their next Wine & Learn on Tuesday, August 21 from 6-7:30 p.m. to learn how this amazing group of women mobilizes leaders and resources in Lake County, while connecting and having fun through philanthropy. The meeting will be held at a member’s home in Libertyville.

What to expect:

  • Member meet and greet
  • Member Q & A
  • Membership information
  • Refreshments

Want to RSVP or ask a question? Contact Janice at janice.scarbalis@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1033.

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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.

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21 Jun

June 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

Program Highlight: Early Reading Success

Last year, our Reading Success Program launched a new initiative called Early Reading Success, a program developed to expose kindergarten students to the basics of reading. In this initiative, trained volunteers read stories to small groups of children and lead them in a short activity related to what they have just read.

Early Reading Success just completed its school year in three Waukegan elementary schools, serving about 75 students. All students, in participating classrooms, went home at the end of the year with a summer practice packet (pictured above) and book to continue their love of reading and learning during the summer months, and to prevent summer slide.

Check out our recent blog article to learn more about summer slide and how United Way is helping prevent summer learning loss in Lake County.

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Join in on the Summer FUNdraiser!

Women United invites you to the North Shore Distillery on Saturday, August 4 for a fun night of custom cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), bingo, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, distillery tour, prizes and a cocktail making demonstration! This event is for both men and women.

All proceeds will support critical early prevention and early literacy programs through their Little Kids, Big Futures Fund. Since 2014, Women United has distributed over $370,000 to worthy nonprofits to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Tickets are now on sale! Click below to reserve your spot by July 24.

Learn More.

Volunteers in Action: AbbVie

On May 30, a group of more than 40 volunteers from AbbVie helped revitalize One Hope United’s Lake Villa location. AbbVie employees spent their day painting, cleaning, building a fence, organizing the library and beautifying the grounds. Thank you, AbbVie, for making a difference in Lake County!

Watch a slideshow of photos from the volunteer event by clicking below.

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Preventing the “Summer Slide”

Over the course of the summer, idle, low-income students lose two to three months worth of reading skills compared to students who are not low-income. Some call this “summer slide”. To address summer slide, we developed Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC), an initiative under our Success By 6 Program, designed to bridge the gap for Lake County’s youngest learners.

The free camps are open to incoming kindergartners with little to no preschool experience nor have been in a classroom setting. At KCC, licensed teachers focus on teaching children the basic skills needed for Kindergarten, such as knowing their letters, numbers and how to write their name. The children learn the routine of school, develop new skills, meet new friends and realize they can succeed in a school setting.

Preventing summer slide is a considerable factor in ensuring all Lake County children are on a pathway to future success. Click below to read the full article.

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Program Highlight: Better Together

Our Success By 6 Program’s Better Together initiative just completed its spring sessions at Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago. Since its inception, Better Together has provided a community for parents to learn how to be their child’s first teacher and provide a safe place where children (birth to three) can develop the readiness, physical and cognitive skills crucial to their education.

In July, Better Together will begin its summer sessions that will include interesting and fun activities to help prepare participating children for future school success. If you know of someone who is interested in attending a weekly class of learning, playing and developing school readiness skills with their child, age birth to three, contact Rosa Herrera at rosa.herrera@uwlakeco.org.

To learn more about Better Together summer sessions, click below.

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A Lovely Thank You to Women United

Women United recently received a very thoughtful thank you video from the B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program, one of their philanthropy fund grantees! Women United’s funding will continue to allow this Round Lake Area Park District program to provide 20 scholarships for children who otherwise would not have access to preschool. We are always excited to see more opportunities for children to get prepared for kindergarten and ready to learn.

Check out the video below!

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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.

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22 May

May 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News, Newsletter

 

We Are United Way

Women United Distributes $133,250 In Grants

Women United is Lake County’s premiere women’s organization for strengthening the community through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism while creating a meaningful sense of belonging.

Just this month, the group announced that it will distribute $133,250 in grants through its Little Kids, Big Futures Fund to support six critical early intervention and early literacy programs. Since 2014, Women United has distributed over $375,000 to worthy nonprofits to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

To read more about the Little Kids, Big Futures Fund and its funded programs, click below.

Read More.

Rust-Oleum

Proceeds From Golf Championship Benefit United Way

Come see the future stars of the PGA TOUR at the Rust-Oleum Championship on June 4-10, 2018 at the Ivanhoe Club.

Charitable giving is a core element of the championship with all proceeds benefiting local charities. Please consider selecting the United Way of Lake County at checkout!

Weekly grounds passes are available for only $20, and daily pavilion passes are also available. Children under 17 are admitted at no charge with a paying adult. A Kid Zone with youth-oriented activities including face painting and a bounce house will be featured near the clubhouse on Saturday and Sunday, June 9 and 10. A craft beer and wine tasting for adults will also be available near the 17th hole on Saturday and Sunday, June 9 and 10.

To learn more and register, click below.

Learn More.

New Board Members at Annual Meeting

Sights and Sounds From Our Annual Meeting Event

Lake County advocates and community members joined us to hear about our successful work in the community, honor our outgoing and incoming board members, as well as watch the premiere of our 2018 Outstanding Volunteer recognition video where we highlight four SUPER volunteers.

We’d like to recognize and thank our outgoing board members for their commitment and leadership while serving on the board:

  • Scott Jones, Cancer Treatment Centers of America
  • Carl Skoog, BMO Harris Bank

We’d also like to welcome the following individuals who are joining our Board of Directors:

  • Maria Colunga, Round Lake Area Schools (pictured above)
  • Dru Garcia, Lake County Partners
  • Demar Harris, Lake County Government Workforce Development (pictured above)

To meet our 2018 SUPER volunteers featured in our video and learn about their connection with United Way, click the button below.

View Video.

Volunteers on cork board

New 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 5-10 weeks, between June 11 and August 16. For more details, click below.

View Details.

YLoD Students

YMoV Students

School Year In Review: Career Speakers

Many students in our community often times do not have the resources available to gain exposure from professional role models essential for developing career interests. Through our Stay in School Program, we aim to help bridge that gap by coordinating Career Speakers visits with small groups of Waukegan students. Career Speakers are successful local professionals who demonstrate the value of staying in school and illustrate the direct connection between academics and future success.

This school year, we worked with two student groups at Abbott Middle School in Waukegan, Young Ladies of Distinction and Young Men of Vision. Read more about each Career Speaker by clicking below.

Read More.

Connect With Us On Social

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.

Learn More.

Andrew Warrington

Board Chair Spotlight: Andrew Warrington

This month, we published a special blog highlighting our current Board Chairman, Andrew Warrington. Andrew is President and CEO of United Conveyor Corporation and has served on our board since 2014 and just celebrated his first year as Board Chairman this May!

In the blog below, Andrew discusses what inspired him to serve on United Way of Lake County’s Board and his personal connection with United Way’s education programs.

Read More.

E3 Summit

United Way Participates in Congressman Schneider’s E3 Summit

On April 14, Congressman Brad Schneider hosted a public symposium to discuss the future of our economy, environment, and education with thought leaders and experts from across Illinois’s Tenth District.

United Way of Lake County’s Vice President of Community Impact, Michelle Crombie, along with Round Lake Area B.E.S.T. Coalition and Steans Family Foundation participated in the E3 Summit’s education panel discussion on expanding access to Pre-K.

Click the button below to learn more about the challenges, uncertainties and need for access to quality early childhood programs in Illinois.

Learn More

 

16 May

School Year in Review: Career Speakers

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News

Many students in our community often times do not have the resources available to gain exposure from professional role models essential for developing career interests. Through our Stay in School program, we aim to help bridge that gap by coordinating Career Speakers to visit with small groups of Waukegan students. Career Speakers are successful local professionals who demonstrate the value of staying in school and illustrate the direct connection between academics and future success.

We focus our Career Speaker efforts on two specific student groups at Abbott Middle School in Waukegan; Young Ladies of Distinction and Young Men of Vision. These two organizations share the goal of closing the achievement gap by working to increase the amount of students who graduate and progress to their next level of education. This past school year, several volunteer speakers came to visit with these two student groups. Read on to learn more about each Career Speaker.

Young Ladies of Distinction

Carlotta Roman

Training Manager VCI Academy at VW Credit

Carlotta with YLoD

Carlotta and group picture

Carlotta Roman went above and beyond as a Career Speaker. During her visit, she connected with the young ladies (pictured above) and helped them find what inspires them.

Karin Lowery

Chairperson and Second Vice-President & Actuary of Trustmark Companies

Karin and group picture

Karin Lowery shared her experience working at Trustmark Companies.

Dr. Sherry Pray

Chiropractor at Lake Forest Family Chiro PC

Dr. Pray and group picture

Dr. Pray and student

Dr. Sherry Pray shared her experience as a chiropractor. A life size model of the human spine was used so that Dr. Pray could demonstrate her profession in front of the girls.

Cinthya Barrera

Engineering Plant Manager at Procter & Gamble

Cinthya and group picture

Cinthya with students

Cinthya Barrera discussed her experience working at Procter & Gamble as well as her career journey.

Kimberly Taylor Smith

Director of Employee and Community Engagement at AbbVie

Kim and group picture

Kimberly Taylor Smith spoke about her move to Georgia, and then to New York, all by herself.

Susie Lees

Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at Allstate

Susie with the ladies

Susie Lees told her personal story of success in front of the group. The message she wanted the girls to take away from her story was on the importance of working hard, being respectful and not letting fear hold them back.

Kenji Kuykendall

Senior Manager, Site Communications & Engagement at Pfizer, Inc.

Kenji speaker

Kenji with group

Kenji Kuykendall spent part of her day with the girls to share her experience working as a senior manager at Pfizer, Inc.

Adilene Dominguez

Becton, Dickinson and Company

Adilene with group members

Adilene Dominguez shared her personal success story with the Young Ladies of Distinction and encouraged the girls to stay motivated and work hard.

Young Men of Vision

LeBaron Moten

Deputy of Facilities and Support Services for the Waukegan School District

Moten and classroom

Moten and group picture

LeBaron Moten spoke to the students about the importance of active listening and how they can respond to information when they take time to process it.

Sum Cunningham

Mayor of Waukegan

Cunningham and group photo

Cunningham and students
Mayor Cunningham met with the student members to talk about leadership. While he was there, he also shared details of the history of Waukegan, the qualities of great leaders and he reminded the students to stay committed to their goals.

Mike Zafirovski

Former President and CEO of Nortel, and former President and COO of Motorola

Zafirowski class photo

Zafirowski and group picture

Mike shared his experience to the group about his big move from Macedonia to the United States and how he experienced adapting to a new environment. He also talked about his involvement with sports and how that shaped him as a leader.

Scott Jones

President & CEO of Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Midwestern Regional Medical Center.

Jones and group photo

Jones and students

Scott Jones spoke to the student members about hard work, goal-setting and the importance of having a positive attitude.

Bob Mayo

President & CEO of Mayo Consulting Group, and Vice Chairman Emeritus of Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Mayo speaking to group

Mayo and students

Bob Mayo shared the story of his career journey with the students.

Demar Harris

Director of Programs and EEO Officer at Lake County Workforce Development

Denmar with group

Denmar and students

Demar Harris shared his personal success story to the group. He highlighted the importance to the development of a contingency plan in the working environment. Demar’s new mentee from the group is a young man named Jordan and he is an aspiring entrepreneur.

26 Apr

Super Volunteers 2018

by Jennifer StromCategories: News

During National Volunteer Week (April 15-21), United Way of Lake County recognized four #SUPERvolunteers that have selflessly dedicated their time to furthering our mission of creating lasting change in Lake County. Keep reading to meet each of our SUPER Volunteers and learn about their connection with United Way.

 OUTSTANDING LONG-TERM VOLUNTEER: MARK ANDERSON


Photo: (Right to left) Mark Anderson, Mark’s current Reading Success student, and Ms. Chang.

Mark Anderson, Ph.D scientist in Oncology at Abbvie, has been volunteering with United Way of Lake County as a Reading Success tutor since 2011. For the last seven years, Mark has been tutoring at North Elementary in Waukegan and the majority of those years have been in Ms. Chang’s classroom.

Mark understands the need in Lake County and, through the Abbott/AbbVie volunteer portal, found the United Way Reading Success opportunity. The impact he makes and the progress he sees with the students he tutors brings him back each year. Mark identifies with United Way of Lake County’s mission that our community becomes stronger when everyone works together.

Watch Mark accept his Outstanding Long-Term Volunteer award:

 

“I think [reading] is something that can have a strong impact early on in children’s education.”
– Mark Anderson, on why he likes to volunteer around the issue of reading.

 

OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER: STEVE CARLSON

Steve Carlson is District 7 Commissioner for the Lake County Board. He has volunteered with United Way of Lake County since 2012 as a Board Member for the Lake County Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) where he has helped to review local needs and allocate funding to high capacity agencies proven to align with local efforts to prevent and decrease homelessness and hunger. Steve’s deep commitment to our community is showcased in his many volunteer roles throughout the county, including involvement with the Lake County Health and Community Services Committee, Lake County Forest Preserve, Lake County Board of Health, Lake County Coordinated Transportation Services Committee, and many more.

Watch Steve accept his Outstanding Community Volunteer award:

 

In 2015, Steve became involved with United Way’s efforts to implement a 2-1-1 system in Lake County after learning about the initiative through his work with EFSP. He has been a determined advocate for 2-1-1 fighting for its implementation and helping to move the initiative forward. Steve has helped United Way to build widespread community support for a 2-1-1 system and has been responsible for bringing numerous community leaders to the table with both organizational and financial support. On behalf of the community, we thank Steve for his time and efforts to help implement 2-1-1!

Watch Steve discuss 2-1-1 with UWLC’s President and CEO, Kristi Long:

 

OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING VOLUNTEER GROUP: WOMEN UNITED

Photo: Women United members volunteering at their newest H.U.G.S. partner, Baby Talk in Waukegan. 

Women United of Lake County (WU) is comprised of nearly 100 women who dedicate their time, talent and resources to ensure Lake County’s most vulnerable children are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. WU members are committed to growing their self-directed philanthropy fund, Little Kids, Big Futures, through special events including Power of the Purse, and growing their tribe of members. At least half of their membership donation of $1,000 or more goes back to the Little Kids, Big Futures Fund; so the more members, the more impact they are able to make.

Over the past 4 years, their fundraising efforts have been impressive. They have grown the Fund from $26,000 in 2014 to $132,000 in 2018, which is an average increase of 50% year over year and totals $369,000. As a result, between 2014 – 2017, they have funded 32,380 hours of preschool education for 376 low-income children in Lake County.

They look forward to adding to that impact after they make their grants decisions in early May. This powerful network of women is a true gift to United Way of Lake County and the children and families who benefit from their efforts.

Watch Patrice Maloney-Knauff, WU Chair, accept the Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer Group award on Women United’s behalf:

 

OUTSTANDING CORPORATE PARTNER: SNAP-ON CREDIT

Photo: Last June, Snap-On Credit employees spent their day repainting an early learning trail at Carman-Buckner Elementary School in Waukegan.

Snap-On employees have embraced our mission by generously donating both their time and money. They have supported our special events, acting as a sponsor for our Premier Leadership fundraising event since 2015. Snap-On also participates in volunteer engagement opportunities throughout the year. Thank you for being a wonderful partner and a leader in the community!

Watch Joe Burger, President of Snap-On Credit, accept the Outstanding Corporate Partner award on the company’s behalf:

23 Apr

April 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News, Newsletter

We Are United Way

Happy National Volunteer Week!

From our staff here at United Way of Lake County, we’d like to say “Thank You” to our incredible volunteers! Throughout this week, we will be recognizing four SUPER volunteers for their outstanding work in Lake County on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn pages.

Help us in congratulating the following:

• Outstanding Long-Term Volunteer: Mark Anderson, AbbVie
• Outstanding Community Volunteer: Steve Carlson, Lake County Government
• Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer Group: Women United of Lake County
• Outstanding Corporate Partner: Snap-On Credit

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.

Follow us on social media to ensure our volunteers
feel appreciated this week!

 

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

View Video.

Annual Meeting

You’re Invited

Join us for United Way of Lake County’s Annual Meeting event on Tuesday, May 15 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 and watch the premiere of our 2018 Outstanding Volunteer Recognition video.

Registration is free, we just ask that you RSVP by Monday, May 14. We hope to see you there!

RSVP to Event.

Annual Report

We’re Pleased To Present Our 2017 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.

View Annual Report.

Join Our Team

We’re Hiring

We are currently hiring for a Community Impact Coordinator who will support our Reading Success Program and volunteer engagement efforts. This is a 30-hour a week position with benefits.

Interested? Click the button below to learn more.

Learn More About C.I. Position.

YLoD Students

Young Ladies of Distinction Visit Rosalind Franklin University

We would like to thank the staff and students at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science for hosting the Young Ladies of Distinction, a student group from Abbott Middle School in Waukegan, on an educational and memorable tour of their campus!

College field trips are an initiative under our Stay In School Program that focuses on helping youth and their families overcome barriers to graduation.

View Photos of Event.

Summer Internship Opportunities

Summer Internship Opportunities At United Way

Looking for opportunities to keep your kids busy during their summer break? United Way offers several hands-on internship opportunities for college students, working both in our office and in the community.

Learn More About Opportunities.

Baby Yoga

Better Together Families Participate In Baby Yoga Session

Our Better Together Program, an initiative developed to increase the services available for North Chicago families with children birth to 3-years-old, recently held a special yoga session. You won’t want to miss the adorable photos and video we were able to capture.

Better Together is made possible through the joint support and effort of the Green Bay Early Childhood Center, Women United of Lake County and our Success By 6 Program.

View Video of Better Together.

Michelle Crombie

Happy Anniversary, Michelle!

Last month, we celebrated Michelle Crombie’s 25th anniversary working at United Way of Lake County! As our Vice President of Community Impact, Michelle develops long-term solutions for our community and leads our programming efforts.

Learn more about Michelle and her work here are United Way by clicking below.

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20 Mar

March 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News, Newsletter

We Are United Way

We are WOMEN UNITED.

Our Women’s Leadership Council has officially changed its name Women United. This change was initiated by United Way Worldwide to celebrate, through one brand voice, this powerful network of women.

The members of Women United will continue to strengthen our Lake County community through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism. Learn the rationale for the change and how our Women United will adopt this new brand personality by clicking the button below.

Interested in learning more about Women United? Register to attend the upcoming Wine & Learn prospective member event on April 5 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. in Libertyville. This is a small and informal gathering for individuals to learn more about what it means to be a member and what the Women United does. To register, email Janice.Scarbalis@uwlakeco.org.

Women United.

Dr. Seuss Event

United Way Hosts Countywide Reading Day in Honor of
Dr. Seuss

On March 2, over 50 volunteers participated in a countywide volunteer effort to read to over 1,000 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 Elementary in Waukegan, Pleviak Elementary in Lake Villa and Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago.

Click below to view photos and video sharing the sights and the sounds from the day!

Sights and Sounds at Dr. Seuss Event.

MyFreeTaxes Babies

5 Tips Before Doing Your Taxes

Haven’t done your taxes yet? Read this list of key tips to consider before you file.
Tip #1: Don’t pay to file your taxes. Find out why by clicking below.

Read more.

AmazonSmile

Support United Way through AmazonSmile

Do you purchase things on Amazon.com? From March 12-31, Amazon is tripling the donation rate on your first smile.amazon.com purchase.

Go to smile.amazon.com/ch/36-2167949 and Amazon donates to United Way of Lake County.

Amazon Smile.

AmeriCorpsVISTA Logo

Celebrating AmeriCorps Week

This week is AmeriCorps Week! We are celebrating our longstanding partnership with AmeriCorps and the VISTA members who have dedicated their lives to service. For 10 years, United Way has had the opportunity to participate in the AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program. This national program has provided us with top of the line staff members, allowing us to significantly expand our programs to reach more children and their families in Lake County.

By hosting our very own VISTA member, Katherine Velazquez, we are proud to join the list of over 80 United Ways who partner with AmeriCorps to make their community a better place. Click below to learn more about Katherine and how the AmeriCorps VISTA program has benefited United Way of Lake County.

Watch AmeriCorps Video.

Libertyville Run

Thank You Libertyville Running Club!

We’d like to say a big thank you to the Libertyville Running Club for selecting United Way of Lake County as the recipient for their 3rd Annual Poker Run 10k Charity Event! We’d also like to give a shout out to Bosacki’s Home Brew, who donated $1 for every pint of beer sold during the event to runners. And a final thanks to Tighthead Brewing Company for hosting the event.

Read Libertyville Running Club’s blog about the event by clicking below.

Read more

 

 

21 Feb

February 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News, Newsletter

 

We Are United Way

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Roses are red, violets are blue, there’s so little that we could do without YOU! We are blessed to know many amazing people—like you—who generously make gifts, volunteer their time or spread the word about the ways in which United Way is strengthening local communities in Lake County.

This Valentine’s Day, we want to thank YOU for your kindness, generosity and for being our Valentine.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at United Way of Lake County!

View e-Card.

MyFreeTaxes

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.

Read More.

Science Speakers

Looking for Enthusiastic Scientists!

Spring is almost here and, once again, we will be hosting Science Speakers Week at participating Waukegan elementary schools during the week of April 23, 2018.

We are looking for scientists who are interested in sharing their passion and knowledge about science-related careers and opportunities with 5th graders. If you are interested and would like more information, please click the button below or contact Jennifer Jensen at Jennifer.Jensen@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1042.

Learn more.

Dr. Seuss

Help Us by Organizing a Dr. Seuss Book Drive

March 2 is both Dr. Seuss’ birthday and Read Across America Day. For the last several years we have celebrated by organizing 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 23. To coordinate a drop-off, contact Sara Martinez at Sara.Martinez@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1026.

Click the button below for the Dr. Seuss book titles that you can donate.

Learn more.

Women United and Baby Talk Partnership

Women United Announces Partnership with Baby Talk

This year, our Women United (formerly Women’s Leadership Council) started a new partnership with Baby Talk, a program out of Waukegan, that identifies at-risk families with children ages birth to three in need of early intervention programming or preschool special education services.

We interviewed Diana Nielander, Social Enterprise and Affinity Group Manager, on the Women United’s involvement with this program. Read the full interview by clicking the button below.

Read more.

Kristi Long

Staff Spotlight: Kristi Long, President & CEO

Check out the latest installment of Familiar Faces Friday featuring our President and CEO, Kristi Long. Learn more about Kristi and her incredible role here at United Way by clicking below.

Read more

 

YLoD

Young Ladies of Distinction Learn Criminal Justice

Last month, 20 students from the Young Ladies of Distinction program at Abbott Middle School in Waukegan participated in a daylong workshop to learn about the phases of the criminal justice system; from observing a court hearing to touring the State’s Attorney’s Office, Coroner’s Office and Lake County Jail.

This opportunity was a collaborative effort thanks to many entities of our Lake County government. A special thank you to Mike Nerheim, Lake County State’s Attorney and United Way of Lake County Board Member, for offering such an educational day.

Click the button below to watch the video recapping these students’ day.

Watch video

 

Libertyville Poker Run

Try Your Hand at the Libertyville Poker Run

Calling all runners, walkers and people looking to have a good time! Try your hand at Libertyville Running Club‘s unique Poker Run 10K on March 3. This is the best way to do some good, indulge in food and drink, and still call it exercise.

Proceeds from the 10K will benefit United Way of Lake County! Click the button below to register and learn more.

Learn more

 

22 Jan

January 2018 e-Newsletter

by Jurelle ManalansanCategories: News, Newsletter

We Are United Way

Reflecting on the 2017 Giving Season

We are thrilled to share that we exceeded our year-end fundraising goal, raising $32,576 for our education programs! We would like to thank the individuals who made a year-end gift and recognize our Matching Gift Sponsor, NRG, for pledging to match all gifts made up to $6,500.

We would also like to thank all of the companies, organizations and individuals who gave donations and/or their time during this past holiday season. You brought smiles to so many children and families across Lake County! To see a full list of donations we received, including photos, click the button below.

Read more
.

Wine and Learn WLC

Join our WLC on January 25 to Wine & Learn

Our Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) is a group of 95 women who use their time, talent and resources to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. Since 2013, the WLC’s Little Kids, Big Futures Fund has granted $237,000 to worthy early literacy programs in Waukegan, North Chicago, Round Lake and Zion.

Women interested in learning more about membership with the WLC can attend their upcoming Wine & Learn on January 25 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. in Lake Forest. The WLC is looking to expand their group with women who are interested in giving back to the community and having a great time while doing it! To RSVP, contact Janice at janice.scarbalis@uwlakeco.org.

Sign me up
.

Reading Tutor

Become a Volunteer Reading Tutor

Our Reading Success Program is designed to improve literacy skills for Waukegan elementary students who are unable to read at grade level. After six months of one-on-one tutoring, 99% of students improved their reading skills and, on average, those within the program showed a 17-point increase on their standardized reading test scores.

We are looking to add more volunteer classroom tutors this year. If you would like to become a reading tutor, all that is needed is an hour a week and a love of reading! We welcome both English and Spanish speaking volunteers. To learn more about the program, click the button below.

Learn more
.

Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Check Out the Results from our Kindergarten Countdown Camps

This past summer, our Success By 6 Program hosted two Kindergarten Countdown Camps (KCC) in the Waukegan and Beach Park communities. At KCC, incoming kindergartners learned the basic skills needed to start school this fall on the right foot. Our Success By 6 Program Manager, Edna Galvan, is proud to share the results from our 2017 Kindergarten Countdown Camps.

Read the results by clicking below.

Read more
.

Tax Season

Tips for the Tax Season from United Way

United Way partners with industry leader H&R Block to help people easily and accurately file both their federal and state taxes through MyFreeTaxes™. MyFreeTaxes is mobile optimized, so anyone can access MyFreeTaxes.com from their computer, tablet or smartphone. Most filers complete their taxes in less than an hour.

In preparation for the tax season, here are some key tips to consider:

Don’t pay to file your taxes. If your household earned $66,000 or less in 2017, you can file both your federal and state returns for free using MyFreeTaxes.com. This is the only free, online, national tax filing product offered by a nonprofit, and United Way has made it available to over 100 million U.S. taxpayers because our mission is to fight for the financial stability of every person in every community.

“Free” doesn’t always mean free. Some “free” tax prep products only cover federal (not state) filing, or charge extra for anything beyond the most basic forms. But MyFreeTaxes is completely free for individuals and families who earned less than $66,000 in 2017 — whether you file in multiple states, work freelance or a side gig, or earn investment income.

Let the experts handle the details. MyFreeTaxes is powered by H&R Block’s Premium software, so filing is easy, secure, and guaranteed to be 100 percent accurate. The software scans for any tax credit you’re entitled to, so you’ll get your maximum refund. If you have questions along the way, IRS-certified specialists are ready to solve any tax conundrum in real time.

Almost a million people nationwide have used MyFreeTaxes, bringing over $1 billion of refunds back to our local communities. United Way of Lake County is committed to ensuring that people all over Lake County can easily and accurately file their taxes to receive the refunds and credits they deserve.

Learn more
.

Better Together

Better Together: From the Teacher’s Perspective

To share another glimpse into our Better Together Program, we asked the program’s master teacher, Sharon Lichtenstein, to reflect on the Fall 2017 session. Sharon discussed the impact of the program on the children and families involved and shared some exciting new elements being added to the program for 2018.

Every year there is a Fall and Spring session held at Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago. The Spring 2018 session begins on February 22 and runs until May 31.

Read the full interview with Sharon by clicking the button below.

Read more
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