Activate for Families

The Valley of the Sun United Way Making Choices Simulation bridges the gap from misconception and assumptions, to understanding that at any given moment one of us could be susceptible to experiencing poverty in our lifetime.

Through the Vello program, Valley of the Sun United Way was prepared to ensure children in our community would not be left behind when schools closed and families retreated to their homes to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Over the last 5 years we’ve come together with over 60 local organizations to address the unique needs of children and youth living in Phoenix’s urban core.

Financial stability is about much more than economics. When families have their basic needs covered and have savings and assets, it positively impacts every aspect of their lives.

The goal of the program is to provide Pantry Packs to 1,500 students, in Maricopa County every month during the school year, to ensure they and their families have food staples to get them through the month.

The 2020 election year is now in full swing. National Voter Registration Day is the perfect opportunity to get involved, no matter what party you support or which issues matter most to you.

When talking with your family about social issues such as homelessness, it’s important to remember that people who are in a situation that has led to homelessness are people first.

In response to the COVID-19 health crisis and school closures, United Way is pivoting to a 1:1 model of delivery for Vello that will provide children with virtual 1:1 reading sessions from home or on individual devices at school.

With the support of hundreds of volunteers, Valley of the Sun United Way’s Project Connect program has helped those who are experiencing, or on the brink of, homelessness. Since this program’s inception in 2008, Project Connect has served more than 22,000.

Valley of the Sun United Way will continue to provide relief for our Maricopa County neighbors struggling in these areas, respond to emerging needs, address racial, social, economic and educational inequities, and when the time is right, help our community rebuild.

From 2014 to 2020, United Way and its partners, worked with 108 schools to successfully bring breakfast into the classroom.

Find ways you can still support our Community and neighbors. Please follow recommended guidelines if you wish to volunteer at an organization in our community. Many agencies are taking precautions to keep volunteers and clients safe during this time.