Category: Newsletter

19 Oct

September 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Launch a Workplace Campaign with United Way

Change doesn’t happen alone. Your organization, large or small, can help us create a stronger Lake County through a United Way workplace campaign.

United Way’s workplace campaigns are about bringing your coworkers and staff together through the workplace to inspire change and strengthen your local communities. Campaigns make it easy for your company, agency or group to make impacts on their communities by giving. Not only do workplace campaigns make giving easier by allowing for small increments to build into larger gifts, but it also educates your community about local issues while connecting them with resources or opportunities to help those in need right here in Lake County.

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. Check out the Campaign Toolkit on our website for available resources below.

Questions about workplace campaigns? Contact Quinton Snodgrass at (847) 775-1046 or Quinton.Snodgrass@uwlakeco.org.

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Save the Date! Help Celebrate the One-Year Anniversary of 211

United Way of Lake County and our partners are celebrating the one-year anniversary of 211 services for Lake County!

We are planning a virtual event on October 27 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. with community leaders and stakeholders to share how 211 has transformed the way individuals and families from all across the county are connecting with essential health and human services. You’ll hear about 211’s measurable impact, data on community-specific needs, and the results we have seen in year one, including the increased needs arising from the pandemic. You’ll also hear stories of how 211 has made a real difference in Lake County for community members, employers, agencies, and local government. Uploaded Image

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

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

More information and a registration link will follow next week.

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Watch an Update About Our Efforts Amid COVID

Our President and CEO, Kristi Long, recently had the opportunity to sit down with State Representative Mary Edly-Allen. They discussed how United Way of Lake County is helping our local community during COVID-19 by providing education, implementing the 211 helpline, and organizing response and recovery efforts.

Check out the video on Facebook below.

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Register for Better Together, Now Virtual

Registration is now open for our free, virtual Better Together program. Better Together is designed for children ages 0-3 living in North Chicago or Great Lakes to develop the readiness, physical and cognitive skills crucial to their education, alongside their caregiver. The program encourages interactions, self-exploration, and guided learning through print materials and videos.

We are offering bi-weekly curbside pick-up of material. To see the schedule for material pick-up or to learn more, click here.

Capacity is limited. Register by contacting Shareny Mota at Shareny.Mota@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1040.

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Shop Kendra Scott and Support Local Literacy Programs

Women United is partnering with Kendra Scott to host both an online and in-store event. 20% of your purchase will go to Women United’s philanthropy fund. All funds raised by Women United will support early literacy programs in Lake County.

The in-store event will be on October 8 at the Kendra Scott store in Deer Park (20530 N Rand Rd Suite 300). Anyone can shop between 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. There is a six-customer limit inside, but there will also be an open-air tent and waiting-area outside. Make sure to mention Women United. If you bring in a children’s book, you will get 15% off your purchase.

To participate online, visit KendraScott.com on October 8 or 9, do your online shopping, and at check-out, make sure to use the code GIVEBACK8920.

You can view the event details on Facebook by clicking below. Please share and invite your friends!

In-Store Event

Online Event

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Computer Lottery for Waukegan Families

Waukegan families with a K-5th grade student in their household and that do not own a computer are eligible to apply to receive a computer.

Go to compudopt.org/chicago, choose the “Far North Suburbs Lottery” button, and complete the registration. If chosen in the random lottery, Comp-U-Dopt will send you a text and provide information regarding how to pick up the computer.

Please note that, during registration, you will be asked if you have a working computer in your home. Answer the question “No” if you do not OWN any of the computers you have in your home. Many students have received loaned computers from school or work, but those will go back once the pandemic ends.
24 Aug

August 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Reading Success Is Going Virtual

Reading Success has adapted its program for the 2020-2021 school year in order to link 1st through 3rd grade students with volunteer reading tutors online. The program provides a flexible, convenient, rewarding and impactful way for volunteers to connect with a student and contribute to their love for reading and future success.

Volunteers will tutor students virtually utilizing the Google Meet platform through Waukegan Public Schools. Teachers will select students for one-on-one tutoring and volunteers will be matched with students based on their availability. All tutoring will take place during the school day.

A selection of books matched to the students’ reading level is provided in a guided format including interactive ebooks and reading quizzes. Together the volunteer and student read through the book, then discuss the questions on the quiz. The program tracks each students’ reading progress.

We are looking for volunteers to commit to a minimum of two 30-minute sessions per week. You should enjoy reading with children, be comfortable using email and internet links and have a desktop, laptop or tablet computer.

Volunteers must also pass the background check required by both United Way and Waukegan School District. It is free, confidential and only takes about a minute to complete. Volunteers will receive tutor training and then get paired with a student (or students). Ongoing support is provided from the teacher, United Way and the volunteering platform.

To apply to be a volunteer reading tutor, complete our application form by clicking the button below. For more information, please email Sue.Baehr@uwlakeco.org.

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Scholastic and United Way Help Kids Stay Connected to Books

For the second year, Scholastic has partnered with United Way to get books to kids in need during the summer, keeping every child reading. United Way of Lake County received 4,000 books for Pre-K through 5th grade that were distributed to the communities we serve through our educational programming. Principals and staff accepted the books at their schools and will share them with their students.

We are always proud to get the opportunity to share the gift of reading with children in our community!

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Baxter Gives Back

Baxter’s Northern Illinois Finance Community recently partnered with us to give back to their community by participating in activities from our new list of virtual and remote volunteer opportunities. Despite not being able to network through in-person community projects as they have done with us for many summers, Baxter associates still wanted to give back and keep their team engaged in volunteering.

Volunteers collected and donated diapers, wrote notes of encouragement for home-bound seniors and veterans, created health and hygiene kits for local people in need, created sidewalk chalk designs and summer activity kits for kids, and much more. A huge thank you to all the Baxter volunteers—your impact on Lake County is outstanding!

If you would like to learn more about volunteering with your organization through United Way of Lake County, please contact Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org.

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Volunteer in Lake County

We have partnered with Lake County Government to coordinate local COVID-19 response volunteer efforts. Volunteers are needed to pack and prep meal boxes, deliver meals to home-bound seniors, write letters of encouragement, provide general office support, and more. You’ll find a list of volunteer opportunities on the 211LakeCounty.org website.

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Uploaded ImageGet Involved with UWLC

United Way of Lake County has two affinity groups in which you can get involved: Leaders United and Women United. Leaders United is our young professional action group that is making a difference in Lake County by helping more kids achieve and succeed. 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.

Despite the pandemic, both groups are still working hard to support their missions. Interested in learning more? For Leaders United, contact Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org. For Women United, contact Diana.Nielander@uwlakeco.org.

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Census 2020: A Full Count Is Important for the Future of Our Children

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

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

July 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Prepare for Kindergarten with United Way

Kindergarten Readiness is a free summer school opportunity for children living in Waukegan or Round Lake who have little to no preschool experience and are entering kindergarten in Fall 2020. This hands-on program will connect children with essential skills to help them prepare for the transition to their new role as a student.

Due to COVID-19, our Kindergarten Readiness program will now be held virtually. Weekly lesson videos will be shared with the children to view at their own pace. Supplemental materials will also be provided to help reinforce their learning.

Capacity is limited. Register by contacting Shareny Mota at shareny.mota@uwlakeco.org or 847-775-1040.

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Wine & Learn about Women United

Please join Women United virtually on Tuesday, August 18 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. to learn how this amazing group of over 100 women are strengthening the community through philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism. The group is flexible so women can choose their level of involvement and there is a ‘no guilt’ policy because all those attracted to Women United are generally very busy people. As donors to United Way, they lead by example to ensure that Lake County’s most vulnerable children are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Now is a great time to learn more about this fabulous group and the community-minded women who are involved. To receive the event details, please RSVP to Diana Nielander at diana.nielander@uwlakeco.org. Learn more about the event by clicking below.

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Leaders United Assist with COVID Relief

Leaders United members and friends helped 300 Zion families in need by distributing boxes of food as well as hand sanitizer and face masks. Together they loaded trucks for remote sites, packed boxes for distribution, directed traffic and distributed boxes filled with produce, meat and milk. Thank you to Northern Illinois Food Bank, Humanity First Lake County and Zion Park District for coordinating this event.

Follow Leaders United on Facebook for more updates about their work in the community and to get involved.

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UWLC Staff Participate in Pride Drive

Here at United Way of Lake County, we fight for equity and justice for all. On June 30, UWLC staff participated in Waukegan’s first Pride Drive. Participants decorated their cars and joined the drive through downtown to celebrate our incredibly diverse community. Amazing things happen when the community comes together!

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Now Available: Annual Report 2019

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.

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Looking for Volunteer Opportunities?

We have teamed up with Lake County Government to coordinate local COVID-19 response volunteer efforts. Volunteers are needed to pack and prep meal boxes, deliver meals to homebound seniors, write letters of encouragement, provide general office support, and more. You’ll find a list of volunteer opportunities on the 211LakeCounty.org website.

The most urgent need is for homemade cloth masks. There are various locations around the county that are collecting these masks to distribute to vulnerable populations. For more information about donating masks and other volunteer opportunities, click below.

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Respond to the 2020 Census Today

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

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

June 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Women United Allocates $684,000 in Six Years to Early
Literacy Programs in Lake County

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 $165,650 in grants through its Little Kids, Big Futures Fund to support seven critical early literacy programs. Since 2014, Women United has distributed $684,000 to worthy nonprofits to ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Read more about the Little Kids, Big Futures Fund and its funded programs below.

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Premier Leadership Event Raises $215,000 for Our Education Programs and 211

During the first week of June, we held our first-ever virtual Premier Leadership Event, which featured exciting new videos each day highlighting the measurable impact of our vital programs and a special livestream gala on June 4. Together we celebrated 10 years of our powerful Reading Success program and honored Judge Luis Berrones and a team of Lake County judges for their devoted volunteerism as reading tutors in the program.

We are thrilled to share that we surpassed our fundraising goal and raised
$215,000 to support United Way’s educational programs and 211 helpline, thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors and sponsors! The funding will help us meet real needs right here in Lake County that are likely going to be greater than ever before.

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Better Together Summer Registration Now Open

Due to COVID-19, our Better Together program will now be a mail-in program. Better Together is designed for children ages birth to 3 to develop the readiness, physical and cognitive skills crucial to their education.

The lesson plans will connect families to videos, songs and other learning resources. We will mail a kit to all registered participants with books, materials and activities to complete at home with their child.

Capacity is limited. Register by contacting Shareny Mota:
Shareny.Mota@uwlakeco.org or (847) 775-1040.

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Meet Our New Intern: Olivia Jensen

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

Our Marketing team has welcomed Olivia Jensen as their summer intern and will be utilizing her design experience for several graphic design projects. Click below to learn more about Olivia.

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Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

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

Since launching, a total of $863,262 from the fund has been granted swiftly back into the community to 38 local nonprofits so they can continue their work providing critical resources for Lake County’s most at-risk children and families.
We are so grateful to the hundreds of individuals and organizations who have donated! If you’d like to make a gift in support of the fund, please click below.

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Respond to the 2020 Census Today

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

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

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Looking for Volunteer Opportunities?

We have teamed up with Lake County Government to coordinate local COVID-19 response volunteer efforts. Volunteers are needed to pack and prep meal boxes, deliver meals to homebound seniors, write letters of encouragement, provide general office support, and more. You’ll find a list of volunteer opportunities on the 211LakeCounty.org website.

The most urgent need is for homemade cloth masks. There are various locations around the county that are collecting these masks to distribute to vulnerable populations. For more information about donating masks and other volunteer opportunities, click below.

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26 May

May 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Women United Donates Nearly Two Tons of Hand Sanitizer

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

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

View photos of our amazing volunteers in action, below.

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Leaders United’s Mask Donation Drive

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

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

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

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Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

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

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

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

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

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Women United’s Kendra Scott Partnership

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

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

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Respond to the 2020 Census Today

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

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

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Have you seen our signs?

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

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

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New 211 Videos Available

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

April 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Thank You to Our Wonderful Volunteers!

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

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

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

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Kendra Scott Gives Back Event

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

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

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Respond to the 2020 Census Today

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

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

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

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Reading Success Celebration Continues

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

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

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Internship Opportunity: 211 and Community Impact

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

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

Review the full internship description by clicking the button below.

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

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Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

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

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

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

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

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We Are Here For You!

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

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

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

Questions about COVID-19?

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

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

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CARES Act Includes Charitable Giving Tax Break for Donors

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

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

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

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Stay Home Save Lives

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

March 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Lake County’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund

We’re at an unprecedented time and our ability to respond to the increasing needs is crucial. The COVID-19 health crisis is a real-time picture of the increased challenges that families across Lake County are facing every day. Our community’s health and human service organizations are experiencing a huge surge in demand for critical services from neighbors and communities significantly impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. It’s critical that these organizations have the support they need to continue to operate at the highest capacity.

United Way of Lake County has established the Lake County COVID-19 Community Response Fund to support local nonprofit organizations serving Lake County’s most vulnerable neighbors. The fund, established in collaboration with Lake County Government, Lake County Community Foundation and Lake County Municipal League, unites monies raised by Lake County philanthropies, corporations and individuals to be disbursed to nonprofit organizations across the county.

Funds will support providers responding to growing requests for assistance with:

  • Increased access to emergency food and basic supplies
  • Rent and mortgage assistance
  • Utility assistance
  • Emerging emergency needs identified through the 211 information and referral helpline

You can help by doing two things:

  1. Donate to the fund because every dollar counts.
  2. Share this message broadly with your networks, including via social media. Links to the giving website and our social media posts are below.

Please join us and support our local nonprofit partners through the Lake County COVID-19 Community Response Fund. Together, we can ensure they have the vital resources needed to address critical needs in this time of crisis.

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If you need assistance finding food, shelter, rent or utility assistance, or other essential services, CALL 211 or TEXT your zip code to 898211 to speak with someone who can help. 211 is available 24/7.

Questions about COVID-19?

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

We Are Here For You!

While our offices are closed temporarily to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, our work continues as staff are working remotely and can be reached at (847) 775-1000. If you need help connecting to available community resources, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211. Our 211 information and referral helpline is available 24/7. You can also visit 211LakeCounty.org.

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UWLC Hosts Countywide Reading Day in Honor of Dr. Seuss

In early March, over 100 volunteers participated in a county-wide volunteer effort to read to 2,000 students across 82 classrooms in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday and Read Across America Day. Volunteers read Dr. Seuss books to students ranging from pre-K to 3rd grade.

View photos by clicking on each of the schools below:

  • On March 2, volunteers visited Glen Flora, McCall, and North Elementary Schools in Waukegan.
  • On March 6, volunteers visited East (Zion), Howe (Beach Park), and Pleviak (Lake Villa) Elementary Schools.

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Reading Success Celebration Continues

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

Next up is Clark Elementary School. We spoke with volunteer tutor Teresa Hatten, second grade teacher Ms. Vick, and reading support specialist Melissa Pankiewicz. Read their first-hand accounts of how Reading Success has helped students develop strong reading skills and improve reading performance so they can be on track to succeed in school.

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Women United Raises $20,000 at Bingo Bash

On March 7, Women United hosted a co-ed Windy City Bingo Bash fundraiser to support early childhood literacy. We are excited to announce that the event raised $20,000! Thank you to all our amazing supporters for helping us make a difference in local children’s lives. The event was a great success because of you!

View photos from the event below.

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Census 2020: A Full Count is Important for the Future of Our Children

The Census helps determine which areas qualify for the critical resources that children and families depend on for the next 10 years—basically an entire childhood!

Accurate census data means our local communities will be more likely to get the roads, schools, child and senior centers, hospitals, and other services our families need. It will also decide how much money Illinois will get to help pay for All Kids health insurance, school breakfast and lunch programs, food stamps, financial aid for college, and many other programs that are important to keeping our children healthy, strong and well educated.

Responding to the Census is easy! This year you can respond online at my2020Census.gov. If you have not received the Census invite letter with your unique Census ID, you can still respond by using your address instead of the Census ID.

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

25 Feb

February 2020 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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Reading Success Celebrates 10 Years!

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

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

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

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February 11 Proclaimed “211 Day”

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

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

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A Fun Night Out Supporting Local Early Literacy Programs

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

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

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

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

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Shakou Donating Portion of Sales to Women United

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

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

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Census 2020: How to Make Sure Your Family is Counted

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

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

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

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UWLC’s Quinton Snodgrass Selected for Worldwide Leadership Program

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

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

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

 

29 Jan

January 2020 e-Newsletter

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Newsletter

New Year, New Volunteer Opportunities

Want to get involved and make a difference in your community this year? We organize year-round volunteer opportunities that you or your company can get involved in. Check out these two current opportunities:

Dr. Seuss Readers

Join us on Monday, March 2 or Friday, March 6, to participate in Dr. Seuss’ Birthday and Read Across America Day. Volunteers will be “guest readers” and share their love of reading with kindergarten through third grade children.

Career Speakers

Career Speakers are successful local professionals who demonstrate the value of staying in school and illustrate the direct connection between academics and future success. Career Speakers engage students in discussions focusing around career exploration, creating future pathways, and encourage leadership and success in school. Speakers will visit Waukegan schools now through the end of Spring.

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

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

Thank You for Your Support!

In December 2019, our Board of Directors sponsored our end of year campaign and matched all gifts up to $7,000. We are thrilled with the support of our community and happy to announce that we exceeded our goal! A huge thank you to everyone who made a gift and to our Board.

The funds raised will support children and families right here in Lake County and make it possible for us to make an even bigger impact on our local community to help improve and save lives. Together, we are achieving long-lasting results for our community, our neighbors, our children.

Give the Gift of Reading – Dr. Seuss Book Fundraiser

We are raising money to purchase Dr. Seuss books to be donated to classroom libraries at local elementary schools.

On March 2, dozens of volunteers will go to classrooms across Lake County for Read Across America Day and read Dr. Seuss books to the young students. Books will be donated for ongoing use in these classrooms.

You can give the gift of reading today—every little bit helps. Thank you for your support and helping us foster a love of reading in our youngest learners!

You’re Invited to Women United’s Windy City Bingo Bash

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

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

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

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

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Sip, Chat and Learn with Leaders United

Join Leaders United of Lake County on Thursday, February 6, from 6 – 8 p.m. at North Shore Distillery (13990 Rockland Road, Green Oaks) to talk with current and prospective members and learn how to get involved. Enjoy drinks and snacks while learning more about how to create positive change in Lake County.

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

Interested in joining? Contact Bobbi Selvik via email at Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org.

The 2020 Census and Lake County

This spring the 2020 Census will take place. The goal is to count every person living in the country and it is done every ten years. The Official Census Day is April 1, 2020.

A full census count is very important to the future of our children in Lake County.

The number of people counted in our state by the Census Bureau will determine where schools, roads, hospitals, childcare centers and senior centers will be built. It will also determine how much money Illinois will get to help pay for All Kids insurance, school breakfast and lunch programs, finical aid for college, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (also known as SNAP or food stamps) and many other programs that are important to keeping our children healthy, strong and well educated.

Children are often missed in the census count.

It is important that you count everyone who is living in your house on April 1, 2020. This includes you, all the children living with you whether they are yours or someone else’s, and anyone else like grandparents, cousins or even friends who are living in your home. You should count everyone, even if they are not U.S. citizens (the Census Bureau does not ask about citizenship). The information you provide to the U.S. Census Bureau is safe and secure and cannot be shared with anyone else by law, including any other government agencies.

Responding to the 2020 Census is an easy, safe and very important way to help provide resources for our children and our communities over the next 10 years.

How to make sure your family is counted.

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

If you do not answer before the end of April, a Census Bureau worker will knock on your door and ask you the questions face-to-face. The best way to avoid a visit is to respond by phone, online or with the mail-in questionnaire before the end of April.

Women United invites you to attend their Wine & Learn on Thursday, February 20, at 6 p.m. in Libertyville to learn more about membership and how we mobilize our efforts to support early childhood literacy.

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

Want to attend? Please RSVP to Janice at Janice.Scarbalis@uwlakeco.org by Monday, February 17.

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

File for FREE with My Free Taxes

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

New for 2020: Filers of all incomes can now use MyFreeTaxes!

 

08 Jan

December 2019 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

 

Help Local Children and Families with a Year-End Gift

As we celebrate the season of giving, we invite you to join us by supporting children and families here in Lake County. Your gift will make it possible for us to make an even bigger impact on our local community to help improve and save lives.
We hope we can count on your support this holiday season. This year, your gift goes further thanks to a matching gift from our UWLC Board, who will match all gifts up to $7,000.

In 2019, our early learning programming prepared more children to succeed in a changing world and break the cycle of poverty. Some highlights:

  • Our Kindergarten Countdown Camps—for incoming kindergarten students with limited to no preschool experience—expanded to new communities, enabling even more children to learn key readiness skills and thrive in school.
  • Our Reading Success program expanded to new schools and classrooms, helping kindergarten through 3rd grade students develop strong reading skills with improvement rates 25%-33% greater than their peers.
  • We introduced a new volunteer opportunity—Stuff the Bus—partnering with 19 companies and collecting 861 backpacks with essential school supplies to help children from low-income families start school ready to succeed.

Finally, thanks to the incredible support and collaboration of many individuals, community leaders, and partners, we fulfilled a decades-long vision to bring a best-in-class 211 solution to Lake County. Our new 211 helpline is now Lake County’s one-stop shop for help connecting everyone in our community to critical services. Since late September, our 211 specialists have answered more than 1,000 calls and texts guiding people to the life-changing help they need.

Together, we are achieving long-lasting results for our community, our neighbors, our children.

Wishing You a Warm and Bright Holiday Season!

You helped us accomplish so much this year! Thank you for supporting our mission to create lasting change in the Lake County community. We are grateful for your kindness and generosity. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.

– Your friends at United Way of Lake County

Thank You, Reading Success Tutors!

Reading Success volunteers recently came to United Way to meet other volunteers, share tutoring insights and tips, enjoy light refreshments and pick up their winter break book selections to give to the students they tutor. Giving a book to students prior to break helps encourage them to continue reading over the holidays.
Thank you to all our amazing volunteer tutors for helping students develop strong reading skills and improve reading performance so they can be on track to succeed in school. You all truly embody what it means to LIVE UNITED!

Celebrate the Season of Giving

This GivingTuesday, Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County (HFNLC) sponsored our campaign and matched all new or increased gifts up to $5,000. We are thrilled with the support of our community and happy to announce that we exceeded our goal! A huge thank you to HFNLC and everyone who made a GivingTuesday gift.
The funds raised will sustain our new 211 program for years to come. That means that all 703,000 Lake County residents will have access to critical information and resources in their times of need.
Everyone who made a gift of $211 or more is now a part of our 211 Club. You can join our 211 Club or learn more here.
If you missed out on GivingTuesday, consider making a tax-deductible, year-end gift to support our programs. This year, your gift goes further thanks to a matching gift from our UWLC Board, who will match all gifts up to $7,000. Click below to make a gift or learn more.

Now Recruiting: Leaders United of Lake County

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

At the end of November, LULC started a new morning program with Robert Abbott Middle School (RAMS) in Waukegan. Members meet with students before school and focus on tutoring, academics and mentorship. Working one on one or in small groups with RAMS scholars helps students achieve success and gain confidence to build leadership skills. These leadership skills help students navigate through the remainder of the school year and will prepare them for success in high school.

On December 5, LULC held their first recruitment event at Bosacki’s Brewery in Mundelein where they sampled brews and spoke with potential new members about how this new group creates positive change in Lake County. They have recruited seven new young professionals, for a total of 17 members!

Follow LULC on Facebook for invitations to future events and updates on the meaningful work they’re doing in the community. Interested in joining? Contact Bobbi Selvik via email at Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org.

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Meet Our New Interns

United Way of Lake County relies heavily on the work of volunteers to help make an impact on our 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.

Our Success By 6 program has welcomed two new interns to their team: Maria Martinez and Monica Carrasco. Click on their names to learn more about them and their projects.

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

 

 

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