LEADERS UNITED
Leaders United of Lake County is a dedicated network of young professionals.
Members share a common commitment of uniting their resources, time, and talents to help students achieve success and overcome obstacles to high school graduation. Through our collaborative efforts, Leaders United supports United Way of Lake County’s mission of creating lasting change to improve and save lives in Lake County, Illinois.
OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE:
- Providing direct mentorship to middle school students.
- Volunteering in support of community projects and partners in Lake County.
- Developing and practicing leadership skills in a setting separate from your work.
- Networking with community leaders to create a positive impact in Lake County through philanthropy, advocating and volunteering.
IMPACT:
Since its inception in 2019, Leaders United has invested more than 1,300 volunteer hours with dozens of agencies and volunteer opportunities. Leaders United’s Breakfast Club mentoring program has graduated four cohorts of 8th-grade students. In the 2022-2023 academic year, Leaders mentored over 30 8th-grade students. Each student received a graduation gift including spirit wear, earbuds and a journal.
MEMBERSHIP:
Leaders United is made up of individuals, ages 21 to 50, who donate $250 or more annually.
Leaders United at a Glance
2023-2024 Calendar of Events
KEY INITIATIVES
Breakfast Club
In partnership with Robert Abbott Middle School in Waukegan, Leaders United has created a before-school mentorship program called Breakfast Club. Members serve as mentors to a select group of 7th and 8th-grade students. Mentors not only assist these students in academics, but also provide important interaction to help with building confidence and self-esteem, and learning skills to be successful as they transition to high school.
Volunteering
Leaders United offers a variety of volunteer opportunities that are well-suited for our passionate, professional community. Volunteer options include mentorship, volunteer leadership, community-wide United Way Days, a community school supply drive, mobile food banks and literacy programs.
Networking
Networking opportunities at various social events throughout the year allow members to interact with community leaders and other young professionals in fun, casual after-work venues. It also provides an opportunity to share new insights, leading to further initiatives that expand the group’s outreach.
LEADERSHIP
IL State Board of Education
Medline
STAFF LIAISONS
United Way of Lake County
STEERING COMMITTEE
- Tim Abbott, Takeda
- Anastasia Anastopoulous, Medline
- Jim Daubs, The Sheehan Firm
- Joselind Manzano, Aon
- Katie Martinez, United Way of Lake County
- Anton Mathews, Brad Schneider for Congress
