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We all have dreams, but for some youth in our community, the road to realizing those dreams is especially challenging. Some teens have to work to support their family, while others don’t always have a roof over their heads or food on the table. For these students, the dream of graduating from high school—let alone going to college and having a successful career—often seems impossible.
This year Valley of the Sun United Way is expanding our Read Across America celebration from one day to a week from Feb. 29 – Mar. 4 with volunteers reading to children at 13 Valley elementary schools. United Way provides the books through our bonus book program with Scholastic, Inc., a partner in inspiring the lifelong love of literacy and learning that research shows is so critical to a student’s success.
Students have countless options for activities during upcoming spring breaks across the Valley, but one in particular can bring huge benefits – immediate and well into their future. See how the choice to volunteer can change a student’s life.
Across our nation today, one-in-six people struggle to get enough to eat. Perhaps you’ve seen the 2013 documentary “A Place At the Table” that examines hunger around the nation. But do you know what hunger looks like for children in our community? From your own child’s classmates, to a teammate in their youth sports league, you may be surprised who comprises the face of hunger right here in Maricopa County.
By seeking out United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), a program focused on connecting every qualified Maricopa County taxpayer to a tax credit that could lighten their financial load. Trained volunteers prepare and e-file tax returns for families to receive the maximum benefits available, saving them hundreds of dollars in preparer fees.
What does it take to build a fitness trail to help keep the 8,000 men and women in the Arizona Army and Air National Guard service ready?
Discover Your Gen U Genius on January 24. Got what it takes to compete in the 2nd Annual Gen U Scavenger Hunt? Prove it! On Saturday, Jan. 24, challenge your friends and colleagues to join forces with you to win awesome prizes. Everything is awesome! Then share the love by posting your feats on Instagram, all while ending hunger for Valley kids. The money raised by you and your team fuels United Way’s WeekEnd Hunger Backpack program.
A new year is a great time to shape up and get financially fit as the average undergraduate holds student loan debt in excess of $20,000. Break the cycle of long-term student loan debt and alleviate stress by paying these bills early. View our list of clever ways to lessen student loan debt through volunteerism or public service
Remember radio DJCasey Kasem, king of the top-40 countdown of the year’s most popular songs? Well as we come to the end of 2014, we’re counting down our 10 most popular blogs hits. Comment, share or subscribe to our weekly blog for ongoing reminders of how your gifts are making a difference in the Valley. See if your favorite made the list.
