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At United Way, we believe that all children, families and adults in our region should be safe, and able to reach their full potential. Through numerous programs and agencies, United Way provides a continuum of services that support individuals and families - from infants to seniors. That means that adults are able to live independently and care for dependent family members responsibly.
Building Skills for the Future
Could you compete in today’s job market without computer skills? Chances are, you wouldn’t be very successful…
Recognizing that many in our area lack the skills to compete in today’s job market, United Way teamed with IBM and other organizations to bring computers and technology into low-income neighborhoods. We provide computers, training, and Internet access to give children and adults the skills they need to obtain jobs with promising futures.
Last year, we placed computers into 200 West Philadelphia homes and supported 35 neighborhood Community Technology Centers throughout our region by providing hardware, software, and technical expertise. Our technology program reaches thousands of individuals every year and strengthens their computer skills and confidence.
A skilled workforce is necessary and beneficial for a healthy local economy – families can achieve self-sufficiency and employers have a pool of qualified workers. United Way works every day to make sure people have job skills for the twenty-first century.
From Homeless to Homeowner
Meet Charlene, a single mother, who 10 years ago, was living on the street - until she was referred to a United Way agency that operates a self-sufficiency program. At the agency, Charlene received services to help her get off drugs and alcohol and into transitional housing.
From there, with determination and support, she benefited from counseling, and enrolled her child into United Way supported day care where her daughter received high quality education. Because of United Way’s child care support, Charlene was then able to attend job-training sessions and learn at the neighborhood Community Technology Center (also supported by United Way) to gain important computer skills. She soon found a job and was able to move into permanent housing.
Today, Charlene looks forward to owning her own home through the United Way Individual Development Account program, where her savings are matched two to one by a grant from the Federal government. In a few short years, she will have enough for a down payment on a home. Home ownership will be good for Charlene and her daughter and also benefit and help to stabilize her neighborhood and local economy.
Because of United Way’s variety of programs and services, Charlene is now a contributing member of our economy, with a bright future and a college-bound daughter. United Way supports a wide variety of services so the needs of the whole family are met.
Support for the Whole Family
How can you cope with aging relatives, your own family, and the demands of a job?
United Way understands how families struggle to care for aging parents while juggling the demands of children and jobs. We support families by funding visiting nurse organizations and quality senior centers that provide meals, social activities, and care for aging relatives – giving families a break from the day-to-day responsibilities. These programs help to stabilize and support families and can save thousands of dollars each year in nursing home and assisted living costs.
Last year, United Way connected over 150,000 seniors in our area to supportive services that provided stimulating environments, transportation, and nutritious meals. Through support services, seniors can remain engaged and lead more independent lives.
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