I Have a Dream…

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is an inspiration to millions around the world. We reflect on the lessons of his life; that extraordinary change begins when ordinary men and women are willing to stand up to the progress they seek. And just as we celebrate the progress he helped inspire, we recommit ourselves to our unfinished work; defending the dignity and equality of all people.

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we asked some of our supporters what their dreams are for the future of our children, community, and country. Please take a moment to watch the video below and, as you do, ask yourself what your dreams are for the future as well.

Year-End Campaign Raises $160K!

At the end of 2021, we launched a campaign to raise funds for our education programs and 211 helpline. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, we raised $160K, which is more than double our goal! That amount includes a $10K matching gift from our sponsor, Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County. Thank you to our supporters for making it possible for us to have an even bigger impact on our local community to help improve and save lives.

Welcome to the Board: Ramon Rivera

United Way of Lake County recently welcomed another new member to our 2021-22 Board of Directors: Ramon Rivera, Deputy General Counsel and Vice President at Baxter International Inc.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ramon to our Board of Directors,” said Kristi Long, President & CEO. “His leadership skills, talents, expertise and genuine interest in our mission makes him an asset to our diverse board and the organization.”

View full list of board members here.

Supporter Spotlight: Larsen Marine

Larsen Marine, a Waukegan-based boat dealer, has been a supporter of United Way of Lake County for over 25 years. In 2021, the company ran a workplace giving campaign that raised $1,270 for our programs, followed by a $1,000 corporate gift from Larsen Marine. In years past, Larsen Marine has raffled footballs for employees who participate in the campaign, but this year they raffled off a facemask from Blackhawks’ Hall of Famer, Tony Esposito. The winner was Mark Kish who has worked at Larsen Marine for 20 years and has been a generous contributor to UWLC every year since. Larsen Marines’ employees have generously donated close to $65K since 1996 and the company has given us $27K in corporate gifts.

Thank you, Larsen Marine and Mark Kish, for you dedication to making a difference in Lake County! We are thrilled and proud to have supporters like you. We hope to partner with Larsen Marine for many years to come.

Workplace campaigns with United Way are a great way to come together, give back and support your local community. 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. Learn more about starting a United Way campaign at your workplace on our website or by contacting Dennis Burke at (847) 775-1014 or Dennis.Burke@uwlakeco.org.

Become a Part of Something Bigger with Women United

Are you looking for ways to ensure 2022 is your best year ever? You’re invited to join Women United virtually on Tuesday, February 1 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. to learn how this amazing group is strengthening the community through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism.

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, Women United has a vibrant calendar of social, volunteer and philanthropic events to make it fun and doable regardless of your busy schedule.

Now is a great time to learn more about this group and the community-minded women who are involved. To receive the event details, please RSVP to Alina Mozo at Alina.Mozo@uwlakeco.org. Learn more about the event below.

Because Kids Don’t Come With Instructions

United Way of Lake County has partnered with Bright by Text to provide local parents and caregivers of children prenatal to age 8 with information on child development plus local events and resources. We encourage you to try out this free service, and you can stop at any time. So far, more than 500 Lake County families are already signed up and benefiting from Bright by Text.

When you sign up, you will receive text messages in English or Spanish that are specific to the age of your child. Messages include research-based content on child development and learning, as well as information about valuable community services and events happening right here in Lake County.

To sign up, text “UWLC” to 274448; or click below.

Registration Open for Better Together Spring Sessions

Better Together, our free program for children ages birth to three living in North Chicago or the Great Lakes area, is now accepting registrations for sessions this Spring. The goal of the program is to build a community where parents can learn how to become their child’s first teacher and provide a safe place where children can develop the readiness, physical and cognitive skills crucial to their education. Themes will encourage interactions, self-exploration, and guided learning through print material and videos.

Sessions will be conducted virtually and run through the end of April. Capacity is limited and registration is required. To register, please contact Shareny Mota at Shareny.Mota@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1040.

Young Professionals Who Make a Difference

Want to create positive change in your community while connecting and having fun with other young professionals? Leaders United of Lake County is a group within United Way of Lake County that provides opportunities such as mentoring local middle and high school students, volunteer projects, building leadership experience, networking with community leaders, and more.

Learn more about Leaders United below.