YOU CAN HELP CHILDREN THRIVE
Only 4 out of 10 kids in our community are ready when they start kindergarten. If we were giving out grades, that would be a failing mark. And since kindergarten readiness is an early indicator of whether a child makes it to high school graduation — and stable employment later in life — it’s a statistic that affects us all.
But the most disappointing part? Before the pandemic, readiness rates were getting better, with more kids starting school prepared. Then everything changed. Today, kindergarten readiness is 23% lower than it was before COVID-19 hit. Will you make a gift to help to get things back on track?
The only way to ensure the well-being of children is by working together. United Way of Greater Cincinnati unites partners, volunteers, experts, families and donors like you to spark lasting change. And right now, the need is greater than ever.
Your donation is an investment in the children
in your community — today and every day after.
WE’RE SOLVING PROBLEMS TODAY WHILE INVESTING IN TOMORROW
The better prepared kids are for school, the better they do in life. In fact, our 2020 study found that kids who are ready for kindergarten are 118% more likely to graduate than kids who aren’t. And the impact is even greater for low-income students, who are 74% more likely to score “on track” when they have attended preschool.
Of course, this issue affects more than just kids. Without access to quality preschools and early education centers, many parents are unable to pursue work or further their own education, which can prevent their families from becoming financially stable. This lack of quality early education creates a loop that traps both kids and their parents. But thanks to caring donors like you, we’re putting an end to this vicious cycle by supporting parents like LeAmber.
Without [help] I wouldn't be able to say that "I've had a [job] interview" or "I've finished my degree in early education." They were the ones who kind of helped me up this ladder so I can reach where I am now. They literally helped me navigate where I needed to go. Without them, I probably would have been lost. —LeAmber
With your help, programs like Success By 6®, Ready Kids/Resilient Families, and so many more are expanding access to early childhood education. But there’s still a long way to go. Every dollar you give plays a role in shaping our community.
Your Gift's Impact
- $50 can provide an early learning kit with educational supplies to two families.
- $100 can provide six backpacks with school supplies to kids starting school.
- $250 can connect 12 parents to educational resources for their children through United Way’s 211 Helpline.
- $500 can send 15 parents to the state capitol to advocate for expanded access to early education
At United Way, we’re committed to supporting the economic well-being of our neighbors, so everyone in our community can thrive. And when kids start school on the right foot, they’re taking their first step toward financially stable futures. Will you help us reach more families and children by making a gift today?