26 Jul

July 2024 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars

Our 2024-2025 bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are now available! They are free, a great resource for families, designed for preschool-age children, and filled with tips and activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten.

You can place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form. Pickups are available by appointment, Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, at our office (330 S Greenleaf St, Gurnee, IL).

You can also view and print the monthly pages and activities on our website.

Donate School Supplies to Local Students

For families struggling to meet basic needs like food and shelter, school supplies become extras, not essentials. Without access to these supplies, children start the school year at a disadvantage. But together, we can make a difference!

Join our Stuff the Bus supply drive! You can donate school supplies, or make a monetary donation, to help ensure every student goes back to school with the supplies they need. Now through August 15, you can contribute as an individual or your organization can team up to make a difference!

Barnett Capital and SBB Research Group Join Stuff the Bus

The generous people at Barnett Capital and SBB Research Group purchased and packed supplies for 131 backpacks, which will be distributed to children at Whispering Oaks Apartments in Waukegan during Women United’s Back to School Fair. Barnett Capital also made a generous donation to Women United’s Little Kids, Big Futures Fund, helping to support early childhood learning and care in Lake County. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for local students.

Thank you to Women United member Sonia Munoz, who inspired her company to take on this impactful project.

“We are pleased to support the work Women United and United Way does to help children learn the skills and receive the resources needed to enter school ready to succeed!”
– Sonia Munoz, Operations Manager, Barnett Real Estate Investment Finance

211: A Critical Community Resource

United Way of Lake County has been working diligently to spread the word about 211—our free, confidential helpline that connects our community members to local health and human services. This multilingual helpline has English and Spanish-speaking navigators and interpretation to more than 150 languages.

211 has already made a tremendous impact on our community. Since launching in 2019, 211 has made 300,000+ connections to essential services.

We need the community’s help to share about this important resource. Visit our 211 Toolkit to find downloadable and printed materials that you can share with your network.

We can also provide 211 training for your organization. If interested, please contact 211LakeCounty@uwlakeco.org.

Preparing Children for Kindergarten

This summer, we were pleased to offer Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) in 6 Lake County school districts. The 140 participating students are now better prepared to succeed in school this fall after practicing key kindergarten skills, following directions and adjusting to the classroom setting.

Women United has continued to show incredible support for KCC over the years. In addition to providing substantial funding for KCC, Women United enjoys getting involved in the program. Women United members recently visited several KCC classrooms, where they read to the students and lead them in a craft project. Thank you, Women United, for sharing your love of learning with our KCC students and for all the ways you support this impactful program!

Bright by Text Expands Age Range

Bright by Text has expanded age-based content up to age 11!

Bright by Text is a great free resource for anyone looking to receive activities, child development information and other tools to assist in their parenting journey. This national texting program’s messages, available in English and Spanish, include topics like brain development, health and wellness, STEM, safety and more.

To sign up, text “UWLC” to 274-448. Then you’ll receive messages timed to your child’s exact age and information about local events and resources, including information about our very own early education programs.

Snap-On Credit at Glen Flora Elementary

Snap-on Credit’s amazing team of creative and enthusiastic volunteers recently joined us to retouch and expand our Early Learning Trail at Glen Flora Elementary in Waukegan.

Early Learning Trails are publicly accessible outdoor learning games designed to develop children’s academic readiness and encourage active movement and play.

The volunteers brought vibrant colors and life to the school, making it a more fun and engaging place for the kids. Thank you, Snap-on Credit volunteers, for your support of Lake County youth and families!

Silly Snack Packs with Trustmark

Trustmark recently joined us to create 144 Snack Packs! The group of volunteers adorned each bag with playful decorations and included a handwritten joke card.

The snack packs are being distributed to the families participating in our summer early learning programming and are sure to brighten their day.

Thank you, Trustmark volunteers, for putting smiles on the faces of so many local children and families!

24 May

May 2024 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Help Us Stuff the Bus!

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

But together, we can make a difference!

Join our Stuff the Bus school supply drive! By providing students with new school supplies, you’ll be helping prepare them for their academic studies, build their self-esteem and set them up for success.

Now through August 15, you can contribute as an individual or your company can team up to make a difference! You can donate school supplies, make an online donation, or help us spread the word.

Women United Grants $181K to Local Early Education

Women United announced that they will distribute $181K this year through their Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support eight critical early education programs. Since 2014, Women United has raised and granted more than 1.4 million in grants to early education in Lake County!

We are so proud of the work Women United does to help ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures of Lake County’s young learners.

Learn more about the grantees below.

LAST CHANCE: Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

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

Registration is open for students in the Antioch, Beach Park, Round Lake, Waukegan and Zion school districts.

Antioch: June 5 – 27
Beach Park: July 29 – August 14
Round Lake: June 3 – 27
Waukegan: June 3 – July 1
Zion: June 3 – July 11

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

A Mentee Becomes a Mentor

When Brent was in 8th grade, he saw a sign reading “Join Breakfast Club” hanging in the hallway of his middle school. Brent decided to take a chance and he signed up.

Brent was matched with his mentor, Jim, a member of Leaders United. Each session, Jim took time to connect with Brent about school and his interests. They talked about hobbies, homework, friends and classes. For Brent, each meeting was a time to reset and get centered for the school day ahead. “When I met with Jim, it felt like I was in a cocoon. It was protected time. If I was feeling off that day, the meeting helped me prepare for my day ahead.” Jim watched as Brent’s involvement in Breakfast Club sparked an interest in helping others. “Throughout the school year, Brent talked more and more about wanting to help others. Seeing how Brent has grown and now wants to continue volunteering while in high school makes me proud.”

Click below to read more about how Breakfast Club has changed Brent’s life for the better and all the great things he’s working towards.

Students Love Breakfast Club!

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

We surveyed the Breakfast Club students and were very pleased by the results:

96% of students would recommend Breakfast Club to their peers.
92% of students feel better prepared for high school thanks to Breakfast Club.
3 main reasons the students enjoyed Breakfast Club: Mentors, learning something new, and the special topics. Topics include mindfulness and self-care, difficult conversations, the importance of empathy, how to be your own advocate, developing a growth mindset, and preparing for high school.

The students were eager to participate in each session and the conversations were meaningful. We are proud that these students are leaving middle school with more of the tools they need to successfully overcome obstacles as they transition into high school.

Research Highlights Struggles of Working Families

United Way’s innovative research project called ALICE provides financial insights into the struggles many working families and individuals face across the nation, in Illinois and right here in Lake County.

ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, and makes up many members of our essential workforce. ALICE earns just above the Federal Poverty Level but not enough to afford the basics where they live. These struggling households are forced to make impossible choices every day.

In Lake County, 86,084 households (33%) are struggling, with 20,869 households (8%) living below the Federal Poverty Level and 65,215 (25%) falling into the ALICE population. In the Benton, Waukegan and Zion Townships, more than 50% of households fall below the ALICE threshold.

Based on the household survival budget, it takes 78,564 dollars for a family of two adults and two children to afford the basics in Lake County, which is more than double the Federal Poverty Level.

United Way of Lake County supports ALICE households by making thousands of referrals to essential health and human services every month through 211. Learn more about ALICE and join us to build a community where everyone can rise.

Prenatal and Parenting Resources by Text Message

Bright by Text is a great free resource for anyone looking to receive activities, child development information and other tools to assist in their parenting journey. This national texting program’s messages, available in English and Spanish, include topics like brain development, health and wellness, STEM, safety and more.

It’s easy to sign up. Simply text “UWLC” to 274-448. That way, you’ll get messages timed to their exact age and information about local events and resources, including information about our very own early education programs.

Introducing New Team Members

We recently welcomed three new people to our United Way family; Maria Nava joined as our 211 Manager, Yajaira Balderas joined as our 211 Engagement Coordinator, and Pam Diedrich joined as our Donor Relations Coordinator.

Learn more about their roles, what they like to do in their free time, and how they connect with our programs by clicking their names below.

05 Feb

January 2024 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Voices United:
A Celebration of MLK Jr.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, we partnered with McCall Elementary in Waukegan to host our annual reading event—Voices United: A Celebration of MLK. Black community leaders from across Lake County were invited to read to the students. Each book provided a unique opportunity for meaningful discussions focused on and around the work of MLK.

Thank you to our wonderful volunteers who came out to participate in this event. The students were very engaged! Your presence and service were felt throughout the school. We are also grateful to McCall Elementary for working with us to host this joyous celebration. Through meaningful partnerships like this, we strive to create positive impacts throughout Lake County.

Year-End Campaign Raises $165K!

At the end of 2023, we raised funds for our education programs and 211 helpline. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals and foundations, we raised more than $165K! 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. Now more local children will be prepared to succeed in school and more of our neighbors will get connected to critical resources and life changing support.

Learn About Leaders United

Calling all young professionals, ages 21-50, who are passionate about making a meaningful, lasting impact on their community. Come learn how you can support youth and families in Lake County and connect with peers when you join Leaders United!

Leaders United will be delving into our impact, our program, and how you can get involved. Plus, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a door prize provided by Timberjaxe Axe Lounge!

Feel free to bring a friend. Refreshments provided.

When: February 22, 2024 | Stop by between 5pm – 8pm
Where: BCU Headquarters | 340 N Milwaukee Avenue, Vernon Hills, IL

Please sign up for the event at the link below.
Questions? Email Michelle.Sanchez@uwlakeco.org.

Because Kids Don’t Come With Instructions

Bright by Text is a great free resource for anyone looking to receive activities, child development information and other tools to assist in their parenting journey. This national texting program’s messages include topics like brain development, health and wellness, STEM, safety and more. The content comes from trusted partners like PBS and Sesame Street and is available in English and Spanish.

It’s easy to sign up. Simply text “UWLC” to 274-448. You’ll receive information tailored to your child’s age and about local events and resources.

Lunch & Learn About Women United

Looking for ways to connect with amazing women in our community, opportunities to volunteer and socialize, or ways to make a measurable difference for children in Lake County? Please join Women United on Thursday, February 8 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. on Zoom for a prospective member Lunch & Learn.

Women United mobilizes more than 145 amazing women to help ensure that all children living in Lake County have an equal opportunity to start school ready to succeed. Women United also has a vibrant calendar of social, volunteer and philanthropic events to make it fun and doable regardless of your busy schedule.

Please RSVP by emailing Alina.Mozo@uwlakeco.org and she will share the Zoom link.

Leaders Have Wings

Our young professionals leadership group, Leaders United, partnered with Wingstop to host a fundraiser in support of our before-school mentorship program, Breakfast Club, which provides a safe, supportive space for middle schoolers to learn the skills needed to be successful in high school and beyond.

Leaders United raised more than $1,100! Thank you to everyone who participated and to Wingstop for helping support our efforts in the community!

Manager, 211 Lake County

We seek an innovative individual passionate about serving others to develop and lead a team in ensuring that 211 Lake County excels in the delivery of referral services and information to the people of Lake County, IL.

11 May

April 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

We Love Our Volunteers!

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

Exploring Science on Earth Day

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

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

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

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

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

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

“Wine & Learn” About Women United

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

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

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

Bond with Your Baby Using “Bright by Text”

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

Every Child Deserves a Safe Childhood

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

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

We’re Hiring: 211 Manager

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

03 Mar

February 2023 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Lake County Celebrates 211 Day!

In special recognition of United Way of Lake County’s 211, the Lake County Board, as well as the City of Waukegan, Village of Gurnee, and City of Zion, have all proclaimed February 11 as “211 Day”! We are grateful to our local government partners for their generous support of our 211 service, as well as the many other partners and individuals who have contributed to help make 211 a reality for our community.

211 has already made a tremendous impact, making nearly 200,000 connections to essential health and human services. 211 Day is a wonderful opportunity to continue to raise awareness of this vital service to improve and save lives here in Lake County.

We invite you to help us spread the word about 211. Check out our social media channels for posts to share and visit 211LakeCounty.org for more information and materials.

Help Create and Revitalize Our Early Learning Trails

As we look ahead to spring and warmer days, we are looking for volunteers to create and revitalize our Early Learning Trails (ELTs) across Lake County. ELTs are publicly accessible outdoor learning games designed to develop children’s academic readiness and encourage active movement and play. The brightly painted trails marked by numbers, letters and shapes help children develop social, cognitive, and kinesthetic skills in a fun and safe space.

Thanks to the generosity of our corporate and community sponsors, children in Lake County have access to dozens of these trails. If you’re interested in creating or revitalizing an ELT with your organization, please contact Bobbi.Selvik@uwlakeco.org.

Because Kids Don’t Come With Instructions

Bright by Text is a great free resource for anyone looking to receive activities, child development information and other tools to assist in their parenting journey. This national texting program’s messages include topics like brain development, health and wellness, STEM, safety and more. The content comes from trusted partners like PBS and Sesame Street and is available in English and Spanish.

It’s easy to sign up. Simply text “UWLC” to 274-448. We only ask for your child’s birth date and zip code. That way, you’ll get messages timed to their exact age and information about local events and resources, including information about our very own early education programs. We will never share your information.

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 that provides opportunities such as mentoring local middle school students, volunteer projects, building leadership experience, networking with community leaders, and more.

Interested in getting involved? Contact Michelle.Sanchez@uwlakeco.org.

STORY: David Prepares to Succeed in School

In celebration of Better Together being back in session for spring, we would like to share a story about a boy who attended our program named David.

When David was just one year old, David’s mom, Lia, knew how important it was to spend time educating David, so she signed up for United Way of Lake County’s Better Together program. Better Together is for North Chicago families with children birth to three years old. Through Better Together, parents can learn how to become their child’s first teacher and the program provides a safe place where children can develop the readiness, physical and cognitive skills crucial to their education.

David engaged in the weekly program, learning, playing, and exploring. It fostered David’s love of learning and helped to prepare David for success in school. Lia shared that “Better Together helped shape David’s development and prepared him for school in so many ways. David is so smart and detail oriented. He already knows his multiplication!”

When we give children a solid educational foundation, they are better prepared to succeed in school and life. David is well on his way—on his path to success.

Welcome, Angela Ramirez!

Angela Ramirez recently joined our United Way family as Community Engagement Coordinator. Angela comes to us with over three decades of experience in Family and Community Engagement and Bilingual Education within a local school district. In her new role, Angela will assist with our community and volunteer projects.

Get to know Angela—her favorite part of her job, what she does in her free time, and more—by clicking below.

29 Aug

August 2022 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

‘Stuff the Bus’ Exceeds Expectations

We are thrilled to share that we exceeded our goal for this year’s Stuff the Bus school supply drive! We prepared 2,200 backpacks full of supplies and 900 grade-specific supplementary string bags, which were distributed to students at Waukegan Public Schools’ Back to School Resource Fair. Since then, we’ve continued to receive many more donations and we will continue to work with local communities to get these supplies in the hands of the children who need them.

Thank you to the dozens of companies and donors who supported this drive, the 80+ volunteers who donated their time to pack, sort, and stuff each backpack, and our incredible partner, Waukegan Public School’s F.A.C.E Department.

We are so proud that together we have ensured so many more children will have the supplies they need to succeed during this new school year!

Women United Brings Back-to-School Fun to Waukegan

Women United‘s Corporate Future Leaders of Color cohort, volunteers, sororities and the Waukegan Public Library all came together to organize a free “Back to School Fun Fest” at Whispering Oaks Apartments in Waukegan. Around 225 children and families joined for food, dancing, games, activities, hair cuts, face painting, and more.

Thank you to our Women United members and partners for making this fun family event such a success!

Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars

Our new bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are now available! They are free, a great resource for families, designed for preschool-age children and filled with activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten.

You can place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form. Indicate what time you would like to pick up your calendars in the “additional comments” section of the form. Pick-ups are available by appointment only, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., at 330 S. Greenleaf St, Gurnee, IL.

You can also view and print the monthly pages and activities on our website.

Company Spotlight: Trustmark

Trustmark is a longtime supporter of United Way of Lake County for decades and continues to be one of our most generous corporate partners. We are thrilled to spotlight their incredible commitment to giving back and the impact they are making right here in Lake County.

Every year, Trustmark associates rally together for the Trustmark Cares® United Way Campaign to support essential needs in our community. They are helping us ensure all children have critical educational opportunities and can follow the path to success, and struggling neighbors and families can connect with lifechanging support through 211. When the pandemic hit, Trustmark was among the first to step in and offer support to help nonprofits serving our most vulnerable neighbors with emergency assistance.

Associates also give freely of their time through community service. Trustmark associates have joined together with us to inspire young students for the annual Read Across America celebration of reading, create a reading nook and multiple Early Learning Trails at elementary schools, pack bags for veterans at a local food pantry, and more! Their culture is one of going beyond and it’s no wonder Trustmark has been recognized as a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace!

“Each year, Trustmark’s caring culture comes shining through during our United Way Campaign,” said Kevin Slawin, Trustmark’s President and CEO. “Enhancing the lives of families and people in the places our associates live and work is an important priority at Trustmark, and United Way’s ability to unite resources and create lasting change is second to none.”

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

If you’re interested in joining Trustmark and other companies to create a successful workplace campaign or volunteer opportunity, contact us today.

Launch a Workplace Giving Campaign

Change doesn’t happen alone. Your organization, large or small, can help us create a stronger Lake County through a United Way workplace campaign. Whether your campaign is virtual or in-person, we’ll provide you with the tools you need to plan, coordinate and implement a successful fundraising campaign.

Is your organization ready to LIVE UNITED? We’ll help you get started.

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 600 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.

14 Jun

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

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Women United

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

The following programs will receive funding:

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

Gurnee, North Chicago, Round Lake & Waukegan

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

$27,000 – B.E.S.T. Pre-K Program

Round Lake

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

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

Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago

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

$15,000 – The Formative Years

Lake County

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

$15,000 – Mano a Mano

Lake County

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

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

Waukegan Public Library

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

$9,000 – Laundry Literacy

Waukegan and Zion

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

$7,000 – Bright by Text

Lake County

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

$5,000 – HUGS/North Preschool Partnership

Waukegan

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

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

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

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

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

21 Jan

January 2022 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

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.

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.

19 Aug

August 2021 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

School Supply Drive Exceeds Goal

This summer, we had the goal of collecting and distributing 1,000 backpacks full of school supplies to Waukegan Public School students. It took 90 volunteers more than 180 hours to organize the supplies and pack the backpacks, resulting in nearly 1,500 backpacks distributed!

We are thrilled to have such dedicated supporters who helped us every step of the way—by providing supply and monetary donations as well as volunteering to pack, sort and distribute supplies. The School Supply Drive was a huge community effort, and we couldn’t have done it without their support.

Thank you to everyone who made this very special day a great success! Now more Waukegan Public School students are prepared to start in-person learning this Fall with all the supplies they need.

We are raising funds through August 31 to continue our outreach to assist students in neighboring communities. Learn more here.

211 Lake County has reached 100,000 contacts milestone!

United Way of Lake County’s 211 has reached the 100,000 contacts milestone, demonstrating its vital role in connecting people seeking help and support in Lake County to available resources. In less than two years following its launch, the community has embraced this new service as Lake County’s one-stop shop for help, and awareness continues to grow.

211 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that connects people to expert, caring help, including the best local resources. The information and referral service accesses a database of more than 1,500 health and human service organizations serving our community, as well as federal, state and local aid.

211 is multilingual with English and Spanish speaking staff, as well as an interpretation service for over 150 languages. Two-way texting is available in English and Spanish. It’s always open, always confidential, and always free.

Anyone needing help in Lake County can connect to 211 by dialing 2-1-1, texting their zip code to 898211, or visiting the website at 211LakeCounty.org.

Launch a Workplace Giving Campaign

Celebrate the Second Anniversary of 211 in Lake County

United Way of Lake County is proud to celebrate the second anniversary of 211 services for Lake County. Join with community leaders and stakeholders to learn how 211 has grown to become a lifeline for people across the county seeking help meeting basic needs.

You’ll hear about 211’s measurable impact, data on community-specific needs, and the results we have seen in year two during this critical time of the pandemic. You’ll also hear stories of how 211 has made a real difference for community members, employers, agencies and local government. Marc Jones, Waukegan Township Supervisor, will moderate a panel of local leaders discussing how 211 more efficiently guides people to resources to help improve lives, including a more in-depth discussion on the top needs 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 Lake County, and celebrate the results we’ve achieved together.

Now Available: Kindergarten Readiness Calendars

Our bilingual Kindergarten Readiness Calendars are now available! They are free, a great resource for families, designed for preschool-age children and filled with activities to help families get ready for the first day of kindergarten. Many local libraries have these calendars available, so contact your library to see if you can pick one up.

You can also place an order to pick up calendars at our office using our online order form. They come in a box of 50. Indicate what time you would like to pick up your calendars in the “additional comments” section of the form. Pick-ups are available Mondays from 8:30-10:30am & 11:30am-1:30pm or Tuesday-Thursday by appointment only. Pick up at UWLC’s office: 330 S. Greenleaf St, Gurnee, IL.

You can also view and print the monthly pages and activities on our website

Step Up to Women United

We know that bringing new, vibrant members into the fold is the lifeblood of Women United. We want to connect with women who are starting or ramping up their careers or staying home with children, so we launched the Step Up Program.

Women 36 years old and under are eligible to participate in the Step Up Program by incrementally increasing their gift over a three-year period while enjoying membership benefits right away.

KCC Coordinator Spotlight: Stephanie Guadarrama

Here at United Way, we are fortunate to work with some of the most service-oriented and compassionate people. Today, we’d like to spotlight Stephanie Guadarrama, who has helped coordinate Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC), our free summer learning program for incoming kindergarten students with little to no preschool experience. KCC prepares students for a successful start in kindergarten. Students adjust to the classroom setting, practice following directions and rules, and practice key kindergarten skills such as recognizing shapes, letters, counting, and writing their names.

Read on to learn more about KCC and why the program is so important to the children and families involved, all from Stephanie’s perspective.

Company Spotlight: Baxter

Baxter’s Northern Illinois Finance Community recently partnered with us again for a week of volunteer projects, which provided 100 hours of service back into the Lake County community!

United Way coordinated projects with several community partners and Baxter volunteers stepped up to make an incredible impact. Volunteers provided support to COOL Ministries’ Food Pantry and Northern Illinois Food Bank by helping sort and organize food for distribution, they helped beautify the grounds at Lambs Farm, and they assisted GiveNKind with a digital project where they cataloged goods that have been distributed to other area nonprofits.

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.

Intern Spotlight: Eric Jones

We are excited to welcome Eric Jones, our newest intern! We love getting to introduce new people to the work we do at United Way of Lake County. As part of our 211 team, Eric is helping set up a new site on Power BI so that more people can easily access data collected from 211. Learn more about Eric below.

Because Kids Don’t Come With Instructions

United Way of Lake County has partnered with Bright by Text to provide 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.

When you sign up, you will receive text messages in English or Spanish that are specific to your child’s age and include local community resources targeted by your zip code. Bright by Text 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 by completing this simple form.

01 Jun

May 2021 e-Newsletter

by Lauren SchwabeCategories: News, Newsletter

Women United Allocates $850k in Seven Years to Early Education Programs

Women United is proud to announce that they will distribute $166k in grants this year through their Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to support eight critical early education programs. Since 2014, Women United has distributed $850k to worthy nonprofits that ensure children living in Lake County’s most vulnerable communities are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed.

Read more about this year’s grantees and what the funds will support.

Provide Students with the Supplies They Need to Succeed

We have partnered with Waukegan Public Schools to provide students from low-income families with new school supplies; preparing them for their academic studies, building their self-esteem, and setting them up for success.

Now through June 28, we will be collecting online donations. You can sponsor a student for just $20. You also have the opportunity to purchase supplies from our wish list and drop them off curbside in Waukegan. Before school starts this fall, we will distribute backpacks full of supplies to the families that need them most.

Learn how to get involved and help us spread the word.

United Way of Lake County Recognized for Its Work Supporting Early School Success

The Campaign for Grade-Level Reading (CLGR) announced that it has named Waukegan, Illinois as a 2021 Bright Spot Community for United Way of Lake County’s work supporting early school success during the pandemic. Waukegan is the only community in Illinois to be recognized. CLGR is specifically highlighting communities that developed exemplary or innovative responses to the pandemic.

When the pandemic hit, United Way of Lake County recognized the critical need to address learning loss and social isolation, especially for students of color, and responded by adapting our Success By 6 early education programs and Reading Success literacy program to deliver virtually. Reading Success also expanded to include kindergarten students, exposing them to the basics of reading in preparation for early school success. Additionally, a new Bright by Text offering was launched to provide expert coaching and more support for parents at their fingertips. To ensure access to remote learning, United Way distributed 450 Chromebooks to Waukegan families in need.

Register for Kindergarten Countdown Camp

Kindergarten Countdown Camp is a free summer program for children entering kindergarten this fall who have little to no preschool experience. Students in the Round Lake and Gurnee school districts have access to self-paced learning and supplemental materials. Students in the Waukegan school district have a choice between hybrid learning (a mix of in-person and remote) or fully virtual learning.

Interested? Fill out our registration form at the link below.

Charla Con el 211 – Chat with 211

United Way of Lake County is pleased to launch a new show soon to spread the word about 211 to our Latinx community. Sara Martinez, our 211 Ambassador, will interview various Latinx leaders from across Lake County about what 211 is, how 211 can help connect people to help, and how 211 has impacted the work they do in the community.

Community Connections: Waukegan Exchange Club

Earlier this month, the Waukegan Exchange Club invited us in to share an update with its members on United Way of Lake County’s work during the pandemic. Dennis Burke who leads Community Partnerships presented an overview of our education programs and community partnerships in Waukegan, including how we have adapted our early education and literacy programs to continue to support families and students this past year.

Our 211 helpline has continued to be a lifeline for families and has answered more than 3x the average number of calls during this time. The Waukegan community represents nearly a third of the total contacts to 211. The top needs requested are rent payment assistance, utility assistance, food pantries, homeless shelters, and low-income/subsidized housing. A real-time snapshot of community-specific needs and other reports can be found on the 211LakeCounty.org website or visit UWLC.211Counts.org.

If your organization is interested in learning more about our work and how to get involved, contact Dennis Burke at (847) 775-1014 or Dennis.Burke@uwlakeco.org.

Sign Up for Bright by Text

United Way of Lake County has partnered with Bright by Text to provide 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.

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

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Tag: Bright By Text

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

The following programs will receive funding: