Tag: Lake County

24 Jul

Kindergarten Countdown Camp: Evelin Herrera

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

Up next for our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) summer blog series is Evelin Herrera, a KCC parent, sharing her perspective on how camp has benefited her daughter who entered kindergarten this past fall. This summer, Evelin organized a volunteer event at her work (VW Credit) to create literacy kits for the children attending KCC this summer.

Evelin Herrera

What is your involvement with Kindergarten Countdown Camp?

My daughter attended Kindergarten Countdown Camp at Lyon Magnet Elementary last summer. I was so amazed by United Way and everyone involved with Kindergarten Countdown Camp that it inspired me. I wanted to give back to United Way and the community by involving an employee resource group (A3), that I am a member of, by donating the supplies needed and creating literacy kits.

What benefits did Kindergarten Countdown Camp have on your child?

Prior to KCC, I believed my daughter had a good knowledge base to begin kindergarten when it came to ABCs and counting but had not had much interaction with children her age. KCC taught my daughter to love school and she interacted with a diverse group of children. She made new friends and learned several skills sets that were essential for kindergarten, something I didn’t realize she needed. She was excited to go to school every day and couldn’t wait for the Friday field trips! My daughter will forever remember her first teachers, Mrs. Latz and Mrs. Feldman.

One component of KCC is parent engagement. Why is it crucial for parent’s to act as their child’s first teacher?

A strong foundation from the beginning is necessary in order to be successful. The more, we as parents can do to prepare our children for kindergarten, the better chances they will have to succeed and set a positive tone for rest of their elementary years.

Do you think Kindergarten Countdown Camp is making an impact on children that attend?

As a parent, I am most definitely my child’s first teacher, from the moment they are born they look at me for guidance. As school begins, we have to promote their education and provide them positive support so they can be their best.

What does education mean to you?

Education is a lifetime experience that teaches us skills and gives us the opportunity to find ourselves. This allows us to build a strong foundation for success in anything we aspire to do in our lives and in society.

To support the expansion of early childhood programs, like Kindergarten Countdown Camp, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/give.

19 Jul

KCC Volunteer Spotlight: Nicole Jones

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

Here at United Way, we are fortunate to work with some of the most service-oriented, internally-driven and compassionate people in the community. Among them are the United Way interns, volunteers and staff. Today we’d like to spotlight Nicole Jones, one of our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) volunteers.

Nicole Jones
Pictured above is Nicole during a Kindergarten Countdown Camp

What is your role at the camp?

My role at Kindergarten Countdown Camp is to assist Ms. Beck with her class. I am with the class the whole day and work with the kids. I run the reading and math center everyday and work on skills such as coloring, cutting, letters, numbers, and writing their names.

So far, what has been the most memorable part about your involvement in the Kindergarten Countdown Camp?

The most memorable part of my involvement with Kindergarten Countdown Camp has been how sweet all of the kindergartners have been. One boy heard me say that my favorite color is yellow and, when he was coloring a picture, he used yellow and said, “look I used your favorite color!” Little things like that make my day. And at recess, I was pushing the kids on the swings and one girl noticed her classmate sitting on the playground and ran over to him. He came running to the swings with a big smile on his face after she gave him her swing for a turn. They all have such kind hearts and it’s so cool to witness their kindness.

Have there been any students or teachers, in particular, that have impacted you and how?

Ms. Beck, the teacher that I assist, has greatly impacted me. I want to be a kindergarten teacher and she is always open to giving me advice and talking about her experiences of being a teacher. She always goes over her lesson plans with me so that I have a better understanding of what the kids are learning and how to teach them the material.

Do you think Kindergarten Countdown Camp is making an impact on the children that attend?

I truly believe that Kindergarten Countdown Camp is making a huge impact on the children that attend. The kids that walked in on the first day of summer have come so far. They have learned how to behave in a classroom, such as raising hands, standing in line, and listening to the teacher. They have also learned so many skills, such as letters, numbers, colors, cutting and writing their names. The kids are definitely better prepared to begin kindergarten after this camp.

What does education mean to you?

Education means more opportunities and opens doors. I think it is extremely important to focus on education to create more possibilities in life.

To support the expansion of early childhood programs, like Kindergarten Countdown Camp, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/give.

To learn more about internship opportunities at United Way, click here.

17 Jul

KCC Volunteer Spotlight: Peggy Lavin

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

Here at United Way, we are fortunate to work with some of the most service-oriented, internally-driven and compassionate people in the community. Among them are the United Way interns, volunteers and staff. Today we’d like to spotlight Peggy Lavin, a Kindergarten Countdown Camp volunteer.

What is your role at the camp?

As a volunteer, I assist two teachers in preparing almost twenty children for kindergarten. The children will be attending kindergarten this school year and many, if not all, have not experienced any prior preschool education. Everything about school is new to these children: buses, lining up, the cafeteria, following teachers’ directions, cutting with scissors, etc.  I help the teachers set up for the educational activities (concentrating on basic reading and math skills) and help the children implement the teachers’ directions.

So far, what has been the most memorable part about your involvement in the Kindergarten Countdown Camp?

Watching the children gain educational and social skills that will prepare them for kindergarten.

Have there been any students or teachers, in particular, that have impacted you and how?

I am lucky to be working with two, very competent teachers. One teacher focuses on basic reading skills, while the other, basic math skills. I am very impressed with their daily preparation and collaborative approach to teaching.

The students are like sponges, absorbing new experiences and skills every day. They get excited with each success and are proud to take their work home to show their parents.

Do you think Kindergarten Countdown Camp is making an impact on the children that attend?

Each day that I volunteer, I note educational and social improvement on an individual and group basis. After three weeks, it is amazing what the children have accomplished!

What does education mean to you?

I value education highly and believe that each child needs and has a right to the best educational opportunities a community can provide. Education provides a child with the skills to be successful in life.

To support more programs, like Kindergarten Countdown Camp, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/give.

13 Jul

Staff Spotlight: Stephanie Guadarrama

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: News, Staff Spotlights

This Familiar Faces Friday, we are introducing Stephanie Guadarrama. Stephanie is one of our  Kindergarten Countdown Camp Coordinators for the Success By 6 Program (SB6). Learn more about her role, what she likes to do in her free time and how she connects to the programs developed by United Way of Lake County (UWLC)!

When did you start working at UWLC?

I started June 4th.

What made you want to be a part of this organization?

I’ve always heard about United Way and decided to finally do some research as to what they were about and I fell in love. I also really want to become an elementary school teacher and when I saw they were looking for volunteers for the Reading Success Program, I jumped on board as soon as possible.

Which of UWLC’s programs do you connect to most and why?

I really connect with both Reading Success and Kindergarten Countdown Camp because working with children and helping them grow is a true passion of mine.

What is your favorite part of your job here?

Getting to see all my little friends at the elementary schools and my awesome colleagues!

When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?

I’m a huge crafter. I literally feel like a 70 year-old woman trapped in a 21 year-old’s body. I love to cross-stitch, crochet, paint and sew.

Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.

12 Jul

Meet the Interns: Emma Paukert

by Jennifer StromCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

This summer, we are excited to welcome Emma Paukert, one of our new Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) interns! We love getting to introduce new people to the work we do at United Way of Lake County.  Read on to learn more about Emma’s experience with KCC so far!

Emma

What is your role at Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC)?

I am an intern for KCC, serving as a teacher’s aide in the classroom.

What has been the most memorable part about your involvement in KCC so far?

The most memorable part about my involvement so far has been seeing the overall impact that one day at school has on these children. I have found it very interesting how young children are able to absorb new information and catch on to things adults know without even thinking about.

Have there been any students or teachers, in particular, that have impacted you and how?

Everyone, from students to teachers, has impacted me. I admire the teachers’ passion for teaching young children and the amount that they care for and value every student’s right to be educated. In terms of the students, they have impacted me by making me realize how important education is and how the fundamental stages of schooling are vital to a student’s success.

Do you think KCC is making an impact on the children that attend?

I believe that Kindergarten Countdown Camp has a tremendous impact on the children that attend. Just from the few weeks that I have been here, I can already tell a difference in the children’s ability to write their name, listen to directions, and interact with other children. I feel that this camp is well preparing students for kindergarten and a successful academic career.

What does education mean to you?

To me, education is the gateway to success in all facets of life. A well-rounded education gives students the tools, knowledge, and attitude they need to be successful.  Education is the medium that allows us to expand our thoughts and explore our ideas.

 

12 Jul

Women United Spotlight: Marilyn Mines

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: News, WU Member Spotlights

Welcome to Women United’s Member Spotlight series. This week, join us in learning more about Marilyn Mines and her connection to Women United. If you would like to learn more about Women United and the work they do, click here.

What year did you join Women United?

2015

What is your professional background?

I am a registered nurse who worked in the Nursing Home arena for over 40 years. I have recently retired.

What inspired you originally to be a part of Women United?

My daughter is involved. Hearing the inspiring stories she relayed, about the early learning programs and other contributions the organization made to the less privileged children, drew me in.

What does early childhood education mean to you?

Times are difficult today for everyone. Those entering the world without the ability to read or keep up with other makes it more difficult to cope. Though I have no personal story to tell, I believe every child should have an equal starting point. Early education makes that possible.

What has surprised you most about being involved in Women United?

The comradery of the women: all working towards the same goal and having fun doing so.

What does Women United mean to you?

It is a group of women who are interested in bettering the world, starting by helping young, less privileged children to have an equal chance to survive in today’s environment. It is a group of women who could be doing so many other things with their time and money but to choose to help others less fortunate. It is a group of women who care.

What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming a member of Women United?

Being a part of Women United will add meaning to your life. You will be able to choose your activities, both social and fundraising. You will meet a dynamic group of women who share your values and interests, and you will feel good about what you are doing.

Women United has periodic informational meetings, called Wine & Learns. The next Wine & Learn is on August 21, 2018 from 6-7:30 PM in Libertyville at a member’s home. Interested? Contact Diana Nielander at diana.nielander@uwlakeco.org.

Join Women United on Saturday, August 4 for their Booze, Bites, Beats & Bingo Fundraiser from 7-10 PM.  For more information, either click here to see the event page or contact Diana Nielander at diana.nielander@uwlakeco.org.

Learn more about Women United here.

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09 Jul

A Reflection of My KCC Volunteer Experience: Candy Carrasco

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

Here at United Way, we get to work with a variety of people across many different fields in many different ways. This blog was written by one of our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) volunteers, Candy Carrasco. Read on to hear from Candy as she reflects on her experience volunteering for KCC.

Candy KCC Volunteer
 Pictured above is Candy during a Kindergarten Countdown Camp.

Kindergarten Countdown Camp has been such a wonderful experience. I have the pleasure of taking on the role of a teacher’s assistant where I work with children around the age of 5, teaching them how to learn new abilities that will help them progress in kindergarten.

One of the most memorable moments of KCC is watching a 5-year-old smile after completing a task they didn’t think they could accomplish. I love teaching children the confidence to say “Hey, I can do this!”

One student in particular stood out to me; her name is Sofia. The very first day, Sofia was balling her eyes out, insisting she wanted to go home. She walked out of the cafeteria, heading for the school entrance, when I stopped her and asked her what was wrong. It was clear she didn’t want to be there but I wanted her to understand that she needed to give KCC a try. So, I calmed her down (which was a learning experience for me) and I was able to gain her trust. She didn’t want me to leave her side in class, so I sat next to her until she became more comfortable with her classmates. By the time we hit recess, she was having a blast. The next day of school she was more than happy to be there. She is a bright young girl who I have the pleasure of working with. She taught me how to take control of a situation, something I never expected a child to teach me.

KCC definitely has a positive impact on the children who attend. Every student learns something new every day. Whether it be new material, manners, cooperation, or kindness; every week I get to witness students progressing in their learning. I enjoy working with KCC because I value education highly.

In my view, education sets an individual free. It allows us humans to come to an understanding about the world, which is constantly changing. Education evolves every day just as much as we do. Without education, we would be enslaved within our own minds, stuck in the same mindset without ever progressing.

06 Jul

Staff Spotlight: Amy Warrington

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: News, Staff Spotlights

This Familiar Faces Friday, we are introducing Amy Warrington. Amy is one of our Kindergarten Countdown Camp Coordinators. Learn more about her role, what she likes to do in her free time and how she connects to programs developed by United Way of Lake County (UWLC)!

When did you start working at UWLC?

I started working at United Way of Lake County at the beginning of June, though I have volunteered with UWLC previously. 

What is your title and role?

I am one of the Kindergarten Countdown Camp Coordinators, which means I go to participating schools and make sure everything is running smoothly, and answer any questions parents may have. 

What made you want to be a part of this organization?

My parents work a lot with UWLC and I think it has a really important mission. I love that UWLC really works in the community and walks the walk as well as talking the talk. 

Which of UWLC’s programs do you connect to most and why?

Probably Success By 6 because it’s the program I work with! This is where it all starts, a basis for future success, and I think that’s really essential. 

What is your favorite part of your job here?

My favorite part of my job here is being able to go out in the community and see the change being made. 

When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?

I love to garden, cook and walk my dog. I’m also always up for the occasional Netflix binge.

Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.

27 Jun

Meet the Interns: Amy Juarez

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: News

This summer, we are excited to welcome Amy Juarez, our newest Marketing intern! We love getting to introduce new people to the work we do at United Way of Lake County. As part of our Marketing team, Amy will assist with research, social media, graphic design, events, and much more. Join us in welcoming Amy!

Amy Juarez

Where do you go to school and what year are you?

I am an incoming senior at Northern Illinois University.

What is your major?

I am a Corporate Communications major with 3 minors in Marketing, Spanish, and Women and Gender Studies.

Where are you from?

Round Lake, IL.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Cheesecake Factory, checks all my criteria for a good time: Delicious bread and butter, pastas, and of course cheesecake! Also, Drake wrote a song about it.

What is something interesting that no one knows about you?

I actually don’t know how to swim. Very unfortunate for many reasons. Titanic (the movie) takes on a whole new level of fear with this in mind.

If you had to sing one karaoke song for the rest of your life, what would it be? 

Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler — a classic.

What is the best movie in the world and why do you think so?

The amount of movies that come to mind are never-ending but, if I have to highlight one, it would be Spy Kids. Mainly because it reminds me of my childhood. Who doesn’t love spies, adventures and gadgets?

26 Jun

Kindergarten Countdown Camp: Round Lake Principal Testimonial

by Marketing DepartmentCategories: Kindergarten Countdown Camp, News

Up next for our Kindergarten Countdown Camp (KCC) summer blog series, we’d like to introduce Jason Smith, the principal at Pleviak Elementary School. During the month of June, 30 students are attending a 3-week KCC at Pleviak Elementary in Round Lake.

What benefits does Kindergarten Countdown Camp have for the children and families attending?

Kindergarten Countdown Camp gives kids who have no formal preschool experience a chance to “learn” what school is about and refresh/review/reinforce important literacy and numeracy skills. It also gives the families a chance to connect early with the school and gain familiarity with us.

How has your partnership with United Way benefitted the Round Lake School District?

They have helped us in so many ways over the years – from providing school supplies, to providing fun events, to helping with better preparing our soon-to-be kindergarten students for school. We could not be more thankful to the United Way for all their help!

Why is it important for children to be on track and ready to learn when first starting kindergarten?

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

What does education mean to you?

It is the key that can unlock any dream for any student. Even in kindergarten, we are preparing our students to be collaborative, independent thinkers and problem solvers.

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