Press Releases

(Mahopac, NY, November 20, 2009) Two major issues in Putnam negatively impact both residents and the health and human service agencies trying to serve them, according to United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s research. One is a lack of consistent data – a comprehensive Putnam data profile – which would help nonprofit agencies fully identify residents’ needs and attract grant dollars to service them. The second issue is that Putnam residents often do not find the resources they need, or are eligible for, to help them achieve financial self-sufficiency.

United Way is inviting Putnam community leaders and concerned residents to a choice of two community forums to discuss both issues and to help find solutions, one in Carmel on December 2, and one in Cold Spring on December 7, 2009.

“Nonprofit program directors are constantly frustrated by a lack of available data about various populations in Putnam,” said Naomi Adler, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “Many agencies here in Putnam are too small or their budgets are too limited to collect significant statistical data on their own, so important numbers that relate to the people and the problems nonprofits deal with are largely unknown. This makes it difficult to identify need, chart baselines and trends, apply for grants, and show quantitative results.”

“The other important issue is that there are robust services designed to help residents get back on their feet and become financially self-sufficient,” Ms. Adler continued, “and residents don’t know they exist or are bewildered as to how to find them. We need to connect people to the help they need, especially in this economy. United Way’s goal here is to increase access to programs and services throughout Putnam County,” said Adler, “and to help identify and fill in the gaps.”

By inviting community leaders, business professionals, major employers and small business owners, concerned citizens, and education, health and human service experts to one of the two Putnam community forums, United Way hopes to both clarify these two critical issues and facilitate solutions with the help of the expertise in the room.

In facilitated discussions, forum participants will help develop local strategies. United Way will then oversee and fund collaborative teams that will utilize the forums’ strategies to tackle each issue and show measurable results.

The first United Way forum will take place on Wednesday morning, December 2, from 8:30AM to 11:30AM at the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services, 112 Old Route 6 in Carmel.

The second forum will take place on Monday evening, December 7, from 7:00PM to 9:00PM at the Haldane Central School District Office, 15 Craigside Drive, Cold Spring. A snow date of December 14th is planned at either venue.

To attend either forum, please register at www.uwwp.org/putnamforum.htm. For more information, call Susan Schefflein, Senior Vice President for Community Impact, United Way, at 914-997-6700, ext. 753. Seating is limited at both venues, so pre-registration is strongly recommended. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY (October 29, 2009) The United Way of Westchester and Putnam today launched its exciting new Born Learning campaign for Westchester and Putnam residents at the Child Care Council of Westchester’s “2009 Infant and Toddler Teacher Conference” held at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY. The Conference attracted several hundred child care providers from throughout the area.

Born Learning is a public engagement campaign dedicated to helping parents and caregivers in Westchester and Putnam counties create early, fun learning opportunities for young children to ensure school readiness and continued success throughout their lives,” said Naomi Adler, President and CEO of the United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “This inspiring new Born Learning program will help to ensure a better start for our children by turning ordinary, everyday experiences into learning opportunities.”

Working together for a common goal, the United Way and the Child Care Council of Westchester chose the Conference as the perfect place to launch the Born Learning campaign because of its emphasis on early childhood development. “The arc of success or failure actually begins at birth,” said Kathleen Halas, Executive Director of the Child Care Council of Westchester, Inc. “Nearly half of today’s kindergarteners start school behind and children who can’t read by the third grade usually don’t graduate high school. As a result, more than 20 percent of today’s workforce is functionally illiterate.”

While families caring for young children do understand the importance of early years, many are uncertain of exactly what needs to be done to encourage early learning. The Born Learning campaign provides specific “doable” action steps that are fun and easy to do every day to support early learning. Here are some examples of Born Learning activities:

• When cooking, encourage your child to help. If a recipe calls for three eggs, ask her to get three eggs from the refrigerator. The child will feel like she’s helping and counting will help develop her math skills.  
• Turn chores like laundry into learning activities. Ask your child to identify colors, help you separate lights and darks, or count the number of socks. These activities will help build math and cooperation skills.
• Turn an errand into a fun learning game that helps your child make sense of the surrounding world. If your child likes trucks, look for trucks as you drive and see who can yell “truck” first.

The Born Learning program is based on research indicating that children begin learning right from birth and that what they learn during their first five years depends on their every-day experiences. Newborns come into the world eager for interaction, and studies have demonstrated that children who receive lots of love and attention from the beginning learn better. The newborn brain is especially interested in sounds, which are the building blocks of speech and language. It’s essential that parents and caregivers let a baby hear their voices as much as possible.

Born Learning also fosters playtime with a parent or caregiver and encourages them to engage in “make-believe” and think creatively. While children often learn the most when they interact with others, solitary play also gives a child time to process and understand everything that he or she has been doing. It’s also important for parents or caregivers to stop playing when the child loses interest.

Westchester County Executive Andrew Spano, who kicked-off the Conference, congratulated the United Way on this important campaign and proclaimed the day, Born Learning Day in Westchester County.

In the coming year, the Born Learning campaign will roll out information to the community via free advertising in local media outlets to create awareness of the program. The information will also be offered in both English and Spanish at the United Way’s headquarters at 336 Central Avenue in White Plains, and at the Child Care Council of Westchester’s headquarters at 313 Central Avenue in Scarsdale. Printed materials will be available at one per person, and online through the United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s website at www.uwwp.org. Return to the top of the page

      If money problems are getting the best of you, get ready to make a phone call on Oct. 6 and 7. Once again, a special two-day Financial Helpline is being set up to answer your financial questions and direct you to resources that might be able to help. Just dial 211 from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6 or Wednesday, Oct. 7.

      The Helpline project, which first debuted in July, is a joint effort of Westchester County, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, and Community Capital Resources (CCR) to help residents better manage their finances in this time of economic uncertainty.

      For additional information about personal money management, you can also check out a new series of eight videos that will be shown online and on cable television and are available on DVD. Produced by Community Capital Resources, the “Building Your Financial Future” videos are structured as easy-to-understand short stories and highlight important information about topics such as basic banking, debt management, credit cards and scores, buying and maintaining a home, budgeting and savings, and investing and retirement.

      The county-wide initiative also includes workshops that run throughout the year and a money management website (www.westchestergov.com/managingmoney). The United Way has also added a new run of workshops to the mix by offering businesses and agencies an opportunity to educate their employees.

      The first Helpline in July got calls from more than 300 people who sought free advice from financial experts, with questions running the gamut from budgeting to pensions to IRAs. Some of the more common topics included home foreclosure and debt management issues such as credit cards and student loans.

      “The volume and urgency of the calls we received during the first Helpline made the demand for this service very obvious,” said County Executive Andy Spano. “People are hurting for a place to go for unbiased and trustworthy information. We made a point of recruiting experts who can give you practical advice, and if necessary, provide referrals to additional programs and resources that can help.”

      Because Oct. 5 through 11 is Financial Planning Week, many of the experts this time around will be financial planners recruited with the assistance of the local chapter of the Financial Planning Association.  Calls will also be answered by financial experts from local banks and credit unions, and by debt and mortgage counselors from local nonprofit agencies.

      Callers are invited to address any financial topics of interest such as budgeting, debt, mortgages, foreclosure, investments, credit, retirement planning, consumer scams, and paying for college. The Helpline will operate from the 211 Call Center. Spanish-speaking experts will be available and a language translation service will make it possible to get help in other languages.

      “We got an excellent response from county residents when we offered this service in July and we are delighted that the Financial Planning Association has agreed to bring their expert knowledge to our second Helpline event,” said Gary Brown, director of the Westchester County Office of Consumer Protection.

       Ann Herrero, director of Pro Bono Services for the Financial Planning Association of the Greater Hudson Valley (FPAGHV), said the financial planners are happy to be participating as part of the Financial Planning Week celebrations, a series of nationwide activities to bring together those who provide, support and benefit from financial planning. 
“We know that not everyone has access to a financial planner they can trust and we are pleased to be able to offer our services to our community,” she said.  

      During the week, the Financial Planning Association holds events across the country to build awareness of the financial planning process to enable individuals to make prudent financial decisions to achieve their life goals and dreams.  (For more information on the Week, visit www.financialplanningweek.org.)

      The new videos are available in English and/or Spanish and each is less than 10 minutes in length. Each one illustrates the best financial practices through the enactment of various real world scenarios. 
“CCR was very fortunate to get a grant from the New York State Banking Department to produce these videos which provide great information on financial issues we all deal with every day,” said Kim Jacobs, CCR’s executive director. “The videos are short, entertaining and to the point and can help residents learn about these important topics in the comfort of their homes.”

      They can be accessed at CCR’s website, http://ccrhv.com/financial-education-ind.html. A link has also been posted at Westchester County’s  www.westchestergov.com/consumer site.  They are also currently in rotation on several local access channels in Westchester and can be viewed on blip.tv by following the link:  http://financialfuture.blip.tv/). Schools, church groups, non-profits and other community organizations can get a DVD of the videos, in addition to a discussion guide, by contacting Douglas Young at (914) 747-8020 ext. 10.

            Employee workshops are also being offered to businesses and agencies thanks to the Westchester Putnam United Way. President and CEO Naomi Adler announced that United Way, with grant support from JPMorgan Chase, is offering area employers trained volunteers who will come on site and address the issues the company has identified as being of most concern to their workers, at no charge to the employer. 

       “There is ample empirical evidence that employees who are struggling with financial problems cause a serious loss of productivity to their employers,” Adler said. “In these difficult economic times, this may be one of the most important employee benefits that companies can offer.” 

      Employers who have an interest in working with United Way to get this critical information out to their employees should call Mary Ann Luna at (914) 997 – 6700 ext. 740.

For further information contact:

Gary Brown, Director
Westchester County Office of Consumer Protection
914-995–2162

Ann Herrero, Director of Pro Bono Services
Financial Planning Association of the Greater Hudson Valley
203-326-6912

Naomi Adler, President and CEO
United Way of Westchester & Putnam
914-997-6700

Kim Jacobs, Executive Director
Community Capital Resources
914-747-9020  ext 12.

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On September 29, 2009, Mr. Doug Wilson, longtime producer and director of ABC’s “Wide World of Sports,” will be the special guest speaker at United Way of Northern Westchester’s Annual Leadership Dinner at Crabtree’s Kittle House in Chappaqua. The annual event recognizes the generosity of United Way contributors in Northern Westchester, and their efforts to advance the common good by supporting United Way’s mission to create opportunities in education, income and health, the building blocks for a better life.

A 49-year career in television had Doug Wilson literally spanning the globe to bring viewers “the constant variety of sports.” Winner of 17 Emmys during his career, Wilson covered more than 40 different sports for the legendary program “Wide World of Sports,” and helped produce 10 Olympic Games. A graduate of Colgate University, Wilson is the recipient of many awards including induction into the US Figure Skating Hall of Fame, “Spirit of Giving” Award from the USFSA, and the Distinguished Service Award from the Joseph P. Kennedy Foundation for his production of the International Special Olympics.
 
In addition, Mr. Orville Barrow of New Rochelle will speak on the positive impact of United Way’s work in the Westchester and Putnam communities. Currently a board member of the United Way-led Emergency Food and Shelter Program, several years ago Barrow himself was a recipient of shelter and related services supported by United Way. Thanks to that timely assistance, he was able to get back on his feet and has been employed in the area of human services ever since. Barrow is a Senior Client Care Worker for the Oasis (WestCop) shelter.

The United Way of Northern Westchester community board is led by Dr. John Pinckney of Bedford, Leadership Chair, Timothy Lupfer of Yorktown Heights, and Margaretha Gravett of Mount Kisco. UWNW was founded in 1959 by key leaders in the community to support the important work of helping those in need in our community. Fifty years later, the volunteer network is as strong as ever and continues to educate and inform the public about the greatest needs in our community and to raise critical funds and resources to help address these needs.Return to the top of the page

September 3, 2009 – Garrison, NY – Celebrating 30 years of helping residents change their lives for the better here in Putnam, United Way will be holding an anniversary event showcasing signature dishes from 14 of Putnam’s finest restaurants, along with more than 30 fine wines and micro-brewed beers.

To be held at The Garrison on September 21, from 6:00–9:00 p.m, this three-hour epicurean event will also feature Grammy Award winning pianist Art Labriola, who will perform jazz interpretations from the Great American Songbook along with Stew Cutler and Al Hemberger.

Under one roof at The Garrison on an autumn evening, guests can experience culinary delights created by the talented chefs from Bird & Bottle Inn, Cathryn’s Tuscan Grill, Riverview, Tavern at Highlands, Fresh Company, Hanlon’s Neighborhood Steakhouse , Cutillo’s, The Terrace Club, Dish and Filia’s, and many more superior dining establishments.  

Samplings of fine wines will be provided by the generosity and expertise of Sterling Cellars of Mahopac. Crafted beers will be offered for tasting by Manhattan Beer Distributors and Gasko-Meyer.  And Johnny Gelato of Kent will refresh your taste buds with unique gelato flavors.   

“With an advanced-purchase ticket price of only $50, there’s not a better way to spend Monday night, September 21st, than at United Way’s Best Chefs festival,” noted event chair Suzanne Willis of Garrison. 

“This spectacular venue,” added Willis, “with its stunning views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands combined with the sensational food, wine and beer will make this festival an unbeatable bargain you won’t want to miss. Besides, by attending this event, you are reaching out to help others in need right here in our community through United Way.” 

“Of course this event would not be possible,” remarked Willis, “without the generosity of our major sponsors. We are so very grateful for their support. ”  Major sponsors of United Way’s Best Chefs festival include: Mahopac National Bank, Spain Agency, Putnam Ridge, Polhemus Construction, Greyrock Accounting Systems, Kensico Cemetery, and Putnam Hospital Center.

Tickets are $60 at the door, and $50 in advance. Reservations are highly recommended. To purchase tickets, register online at uwwp.org or call (845) 621-2203. Return to the top of the page

There’s still four more hours to make that call and get some free financial advice!

About 200 people called the Financial Helpline yesterday about issues ranging from retirement accounts to home improvement grants. The first-time program, sponsored by Westchester County government and United Way, will continue today, July 22.

Residents can call 211 from 4-8 p.m. with their questions.

The phones are being answered by a team of volunteers from local banks and credit unions, financial industry associations, and nonprofit agencies. They answer questions about financial matters and in many cases, refer callers to additional resources that could provide further assistance. The team includes home mortgage and foreclosure experts, debt specialists and certified financial planners.

Many of yesterday’s callers were concerned about home finance (i.e. home repair, refinancing and foreclosure) and debt issues – credit card debt and student loans in particular. In addition, several callers had questions about their pensions, IRAs and 401(k)s. Spanish-speaking experts are available and a language translation service makes it possible to get help in other languages. Return to the top of the page

July 31, 2009 – White Plains, NY – The economic crisis has negatively impacted so many residents that the United Way of Westchester and Putnam has responded with workshops designed to help workers understand the basics of budgeting, financial planning, banking, debt, foreclosure, credit cards, etc. The Financial Education Program is a series of free on-site employee workshops aimed at helping individuals become more financially stable and to achieve long-term economic independence. This initiative is part of United Way’s focus on financial stability, along with education and health, and represents United Way efforts to get to the root of community problems in order to facilitate positive change in residents’ lives. Educating individuals on the basics of finance could help buffer them from economic downturns, and provide the tools to protect and grow their assets for a more secure future for themselves and their families.

The Financial Education Program is run by United Way with assistance from local experts, including Community Capital Resources and community investors, JP Morgan Chase, as well as trained volunteers from The Volunteer Center of the United Way and the community at large.  Workshops that aid employees in making educated financial decisions will be held from July to December of 2009 at employee workplaces. The program is offered as a free service to both the employer and employee.  Sessions will last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and therefore can be offered during lunch or another time convenient for employees.  

For more information, please contact Mary Ann Luna at mluna@uwwp.org or 914-997 6700 ext 740 / Luz H. Barrera at lbarrera@uwwp.org or 914-997 6700 ext 738.Return to the top of the page

(Rye, NY) On Saturday, July 11, United Way of Westchester and Putnam is inviting all UWWP donors and volunteers to attend its first ever “United Way’s Thank you! Day.”  United Way can think of no better way to kick off the summer season than to celebrate our fantastic donors and volunteers. This fun family event will be held at the historic Rye Playland Amusement Park from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Supporters will be able to enjoy a discounted rate for a day filled with fun, good cheer, and excitement at Westchester’s premier amusement park and beach.  In addition, a free catered Bar-B-Que lunch, sponsored by Bruce R. Alter, Attorney at Law, will be provided for those wearing their LIVE UNITED T-shirts from 1:00 p.m to 2:30 p.m. Return to the top of the page

Summer camp usually evokes memories of swimming, softball, arts and crafts, and boisterous lunches in the dining hall.  The 800 campers at Camp Hillard have all this plus the opportunity to “Live United” by donating to United Way of Westchester and Putnam during the camp’s “Keeping Kids on Track” summer charity campaign.

Every year, Camp Hillard--a Scarsdale, New York day camp owned for more than 80 years by the Libman Family—conducts a campaign among their campers and staff to raise funds for local charities.  Over the past 13 years, they have donated more than $450,000 to programs that benefit children in the community.  The 2009 campaign will support United Way’s “Keeping Kids on Track” initiatives, which include:

• Born Learning
United Way believes that engaging our kids early is essential to a child’s confidence and success later in school. Born Learning provides easy teaching tools to new parents, grandparents and caregivers that turn everyday activities with children into fun, learning opportunities for eager little minds, and promotes confident and caring interaction between the parent or caregiver and child.

• Healthy Living for Kids and Young Adults
Healthy habits are crucial to a child’s present and future wellbeing. United Way’s Healthy Living for Kids and Young Adults tackles childhood obesity by teaching kids healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity. Nurse practitioners and nutrition experts make healthy living fun for the kids, while monitoring their progress. The result: great success in reducing kids’ body mass index!

• Intergenerational Initiative
Our seniors are a rich source of knowledge, experience and leadership for our teens. United Way’s Intergenerational Initiative pairs the two generations for mentorship, help with reading and homework, friendship and a real sense of belonging. The added benefit? Our seniors feel appreciated, connected and vital.

Naomi Adler, United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s President and CEO remarked “United Way believes that we all win when a child is healthy and successful, in school and out. We thrilled about the summer campaign and grateful to the Libman Family; the Camp Hillard staff; and the campers for supporting children throughout Westchester and Putnam.” Return to the top of the page

Their children range in age from pre-schoolers to pre-teens and they schedule meetings around work, school, and camp schedules.  But even as they juggle multiple activities, a busy group of local moms is fully committed to one very special project: Camp-A-Palooza! 

A benefit for United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Camp-A-Palooza is a one-of-a-kind family festival that will combine first class family entertainment—music, stilt dancers, and larger-than-life puppets—with the best of the summer camp experience—arts and crafts, miniature golf, team sports, old fashioned games and a nature program. An impressive event lineup includes the lead singer of the Spin Doctors, Chris Barron, and his new band The Time Bandits; Parents Choice Silver Honor award winner Ellis Paul; and Pete and Maura Kennedy (a.k.a The Snacks), among others. Camp-A-Palooza will be held on Saturday, October 3rd on the grounds of Camp Hillard, a premier day camp in Scarsdale owned for more than 80 years by the Libman family. All proceeds will benefit United Way’s initiatives on behalf of youth and children.

Camp Hillard’s Creative and Performing Arts Director Kathleen Libman, mom to 10–year old Dylan and 5-year old Taylor, has been working closely with the Camp-A-Palooza Steering Committee on a range of activities.  She noted that “although we’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars for local charities through our summer campaigns, we’ve never opened the camp up for a large-scale charity event before.  However, everything about Camp-A-Palooza appealed to us: the many ways our community’s children will be helped, the strong reputation of United Way, and the enthusiasm of the volunteers.  My family and I are thrilled to be hosting this event.”

The 22-member committee from Scarsdale, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings, Larchmont and Rye has been meeting monthly since January 2009, at the Scarsdale home of Committee Chairperson Denise Koslowsky. Koslowsky, who approached Camp Hillard owner Jon Libman about the idea in the spring of 2008, now presides over the lively planning sessions.  The meetings are punctuated with much laughter, frequent interruptions and digressions, but a strong sense of purpose and goals.  Committee members are excited about the event line-up, which includes the lead singer of the Spin Doctors, Chris Barron, and his new band The Time Bandits; Parents Choice Silver Honor award winner Ellis Paul; and Pete and Maura Kennedy (a.k.a The Snacks), among others.

“There’s so much great energy around this event,” Koslowsky remarked.  “And at the same time, everyone knows that we are raising money for a very important cause.  In today’s economy, what could be more vital than supporting the health and success of children?”

Naomi Adler, United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s President and CEO explained, “United Way believes that we all win when a child is healthy and successful, in school and out.   Toward that end, we recently brought together nearly 100 experts in the fields of education, youth services, and child development to brainstorm strategies for giving our kids the right start and keeping them on track.  Together with our community partners, we’re working towards three goals: 1) young children enter school prepared to achieve; 2) children and youth are academically successful; and 3) children and youth make healthy and safe decisions.”

Other exciting ways that United Way is helping our kids:

• United Way believes that engaging our kids early is essential to a child’s confidence and success later in school. Born Learning provides easy teaching tools to new parents, grandparents and caregivers that turn everyday activities with children into fun, learning opportunities for eager little minds, and promotes confident and caring interaction between the parent or caregiver and child.

• Healthy habits are crucial to a child’s present and future wellbeing. United Way’s Healthy Living for Kids and Young Adults tackles childhood obesity by teaching kids healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity. Nurse practitioners and nutrition experts make healthy living fun for the kids, while monitoring their progress. The result: great success in reducing kids’ body mass index!

• Our seniors are a rich source of knowledge, experience and leadership for our teens. United Way’s Intergenerational Initiative pairs the two generations for mentorship, help with reading and homework, friendship and a real sense of belonging. The added benefit? Our seniors feel appreciated, connected and vital.

Koslowsky added, “Camp-A-Palooza’s success will be measured not only by the funding it raises for United Way, but also by the excitement it generates for the organization’s initiatives, and the smiles on tired but happy faces at the end of the day.”

United Way of Westchester and Putnam is a local organization that mobilizes people and resources to address the underlying causes of our area's most pressing issues in the areas of Education, Income and Health, and to create positive, measurable and lasting change in the lives of those who live and work in our community. 

Camp-A-Palooza will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Camp Hillard, 26 Elizabeth Street, Scarsdale, NY.   Advance tickets go on sale on August 1st.  For further information, contact Denise Woodin at (914) 997-6700, ext. 729
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On Thursday, June 18, United Way of Westchester and Putnam is inviting the public to attend its 2nd annual Racing to Save Lives event at Yonkers Raceway at Empire City Casino, from 5:45 – 9:00 p.m. Participants will enjoy cocktails, dinner, slot machines and the races while raising money to help Westchester cancer patients get to life-saving treatments and Putnam seniors to necessary medical appointments.

“We’ve discovered that one of the major difficulties Westchester cancer patients face in getting their lifesaving treatments is the expense and distance to cancer treatment facilities,” said Naomi Adler, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam.  “The same for Putnam seniors. That’s why this event is so important to the health and well-being of some of our most vulnerable citizens.”

Two months after giving birth to her first child, 34-year-old Mrs. G. from Mount Vernon was diagnosed with breast cancer. After her surgery last year, she was told that she would need regular chemotherapy treatments. Her husband remained at home with their newborn baby when Mrs. G. had her scheduled chemo treatments in White Plains, which she found increasingly difficult to get to since she does not drive.

With no family in the area, and few community supports, Mrs. G. eventually found help through United Way’s partnership with the Cancer Support Team and the American Cancer Society, which provided her with in-home nursing services and transportation with volunteer assistance to her life-saving treatments.   

After his wife passed away, 80 year-old Mr. H. moved to Putnam last year to live with his son and daughter-in-law. As a veteran with several debilitating illnesses, Mr. H. had many medical appointments at the VA hospital in Montrose, as well as a clinic in Carmel.

His daughter-in-law often took so much time off from work to take him to his medical care that she nearly lost her job. Increasingly stressed and desperate, she finally reached out for help from the Putnam Senior Medical Shuttle. This service was able to transport Mr. H. safely and economically to all his medical appointments on a regular basis.

With United Way funding in 2008, 63 cancer patients throughout Westchester were transported to their medical treatments, for a total of 219 round-trip rides.  In Putnam, 67 seniors were given escorted round-trip transportation to their medical appointments, for a total of 319 rides.

“Our United Way board of directors strongly believes that these programs are providing an invaluable service to some of our most vulnerable neighbors in the community – saving lives, and saving families from the overwhelming burden and stress of getting seriously ill loved ones to medical treatments and appointments”, remarked Ron Jacobson, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at Fordham University and a board member for United Way of Westchester and Putnam.

The general public is invited to attend this unique fundraising event. Ticket price is $95 per person and includes cocktails, a full buffet dinner, dessert and coffee, in the beautiful glass-enclosed Empire Terrace Restaurant, plus a $5.00 slot-machine voucher. Visit the United Way website to register at www.uwwp.org/raceway.htm or call Sharon Cahill at 845-621-2203.

This event is made possible by the generosity of its sponsors: Entergy; M&T Bank; Westchester/Putnam AFL-CIO Central Labor Body; ENT and Allergy Associates; Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 21; Garito Manor, and Concept: CARE. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY -- On the heels of the successful Education Forum, United Way of Westchester and Putnam is inviting community leaders and professionals with expertise in income and basic needs issues to attend its first Income Forum on June 10th. The Forum will take place from 9AM-2PM at Pace University’s Lubin Graduate Center in White Plains. 

By pooling expertise and examining data, participants will help United Way develop strategies that can meet a series of measurable income goals over time.  This effort follows United Way’s recent needs assessment survey which identified the most critical issues in income in Westchester.

At the end of June, organizations will be invited to submit letters of intent to work collaboratively on the United Way income initiatives resulting from the Forum (information and registration can be found at www.uwwp.org).

The Income Forum will help develop strategies to achieve the following goals:

1. Individuals in Westchester will be able to adapt to changing employment opportunities.
2. Individuals and families in Westchester will have adequate income to meet their basic needs.
3. Individuals and families in Westchester will gain and sustain assets that lead towards financial independence.

The Income Forum will be followed by a Health Forum in Fall 2009.   

The United Way focus on Education, Income and Health reflects United Way of America’s national measurable goal-setting of improving lives in our community by strengthening these three important building blocks to a better life.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

            2-1-1 is the number set aside by the FCC in 2000 as a single, memorable means of access to health and human services information and referral. While our region is blessed with a rich infrastructure of public and not for profit services, finding out about those services and linking up with them can sometimes be challenging and overwhelming. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed by well trained information and referral specialists who can provide information and link callers to agencies from a regional database of services and it is free and confidential. For both day to day needs and during times of disaster, 2-1-1 has proven to be a great mechanism to link callers who need help, as well as those who want to help, thus relieving emergency management agencies from calls that may not be appropriate for them.

            Planning for 2-1-1 services in the North Country has been spearheaded by the United Way of Clinton and Essex Counties, Inc. A steering committee was formed with representatives from Clinton, Essex and Franklin Counties to explore the need, feasibility and design of a regional 2-1-1 system and to provide ongoing governance. After extensive research and planning, it was determined that contracting for the service would be much more cost effective than building and staffing a call center.  

            The steering committee conducted a request for proposals (RFP) during the summer of 2008 which was distributed both regionally and state wide. Proposals were sought to develop a comprehensive database and to provide the actual 2-1-1 service. The contract was awarded to 2-1-1 Hudson Valley, which has an operational and fully accredited call center. “These folks are very capable and they have a great track record. They will be able to provide an excellent service to us at a fraction of the cost that it would have been to build and staff a call center. Our local steering committee however, will have total control and oversight of the program”, said John Bernardi, Executive Director of the United Way of Clinton and Essex Counties, Inc. State funding, supplemented by regional resources is being utilized to operate the program at an estimated cost of $87,000 per year. The service is available 7 days a week from the hours of 8am to 8pm by dialing 2-1-1. If 2-1-1 is temporarily unavailable to a caller, they can also access the service by dialing 1-888-774-0289.

            2-1-1 information and referral will be a valuable service for the residents of Clinton, Essex and Franklin Counties. In addition to providing accurate and timely health and human service information to people in need, the service will also lessen the burden on a wide variety of public and private agencies that spend resources addressing misguided inquiries. Also, several local information and referral mechanisms will be linked by 2-1-1 and enhanced by their mutual affiliation. Return to the top of the page

When:         June 10, 9:00AM-2:00PM
Where:        Pace University’s Lubin Graduate Center, White Plains, NY
Who:           Presented by United Way of Westchester and Putnam
Contact:      Lynn Honeysett, SVP Marketing and Communications, United Way of Westchester and Putnam (914.997.6700 ext 720).

In the midst of one of the worst economic recessions in recent history, United Way of Westchester and Putnam is inviting community leaders and professionals with expertise in income, finance, and basic needs issues to attend its first Income Forum on June 10th.

There will be a plenary session in the morning with renowned results expert and Senior Consultant of Results Leadership Group, Karen Finn, who will give an overview of the day’s process.  Attendees will then break out into workshop sessions where they will brainstorm possible strategies to achieve financial stability (income) goals that include: 1) adapting to changing employment opportunities in Westchester; 2) individuals and families meeting basic needs; and 3) achieving financial independence.  The goal is to create workable strategies for each issue by the end of the forum which will be developed into United Way initiatives.  Nonprofits will later be able to submit letters of intent to work on those initiatives.

There is no fee for the Forum.  For more information or to register please go to http://www.uwwp.org/income.htm or call 914 997 6700 x 736 Return to the top of the page

(Yonkers, NY) Despite the stormy weather, nearly 100 people came to Yonkers Raceway on the evening of June 18 for one of United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s most exciting events. The 2nd annual Racing to Save Lives at Empire City Casino raised more than $17,000 that will be used to help Westchester cancer patients get to life-saving treatments and Putnam seniors to necessary medical appointments.  

The event also honored the recipients of United Way’s prestigious Spirit of Westchester and Putnam Awards – individuals and organizations that have shown extraordinary commitment to the work of United Way with their generosity, advocacy and volunteerism.

County Legislator Lois Bronz was honored with the Volunteer Award for her unwavering commitment to her community, particularly for her dedicated time and effort to the United Way community.  Knowledge Networks was the recipient of the Partnership Award for its efforts in creating an online tool for a needs assessment survey, a critical step to establishing United Way’s future health, education, and income initiatives.  United Way of Northern Westchester (1959-2009) was chosen for the Community Leadership Award as a culmination of 50 years of fundraising and advancing the common good.  New Rochelle’s Federation of United School Employees received this year’s Labor Award due to their tremendous community volunteering and fundraising efforts.  Entergy earned the Corporate Award for increasing their employee campaign contributions.

“United Way is fortunate to have the support of the kind of individuals and organizations that actually move the needle on important issues in this community,” said Naomi Adler, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam.  “And tonight, the beneficiaries of Racing to Save Lives – cancer patients and the elderly – are exactly the kinds of vulnerable residents, among many others, whose lives are changed for the better because of the commitment shown by our Spirit of Westchester and Putnam Award recipients.”

Guests cheered their favorite horses on, tried their hand at the slots and enjoyed cocktails and a buffet dinner in the beautiful glass-enclosed Empire Terrace Restaurant, while raising money for a worthy cause.

With United Way help in 2008, 63 cancer patients throughout Westchester were transported to their medical treatments, for a total of 219 round-trip rides.  In Putnam, 64 seniors were given escorted round-trip transportation to their medical appointments, for a total of 267 rides.  United Way partners with the Cancer Support Team in Westchester and The Friends of the Senior Citizens of Putnam County.

Racing to Save Lives would not have been possible without the generosity of its sponsors: Entergy; M&T Bank; Westchester-Putnam Central Labor Body, AFL-CIO; ENT and Allergy Associates; Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 21; Garito Manor at Union Square; Concept: CARE; and Phoenix Beverages.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

June 12, 2009 -- White Plains, NY – Westchester’s top leaders in income, banking, finance, and community issues gathered at Pace University’s Graduate Center on Wednesday for United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s first Income Forum. Community agencies, volunteers, and business leaders worked in collaboration with United Way to develop strategies that revolve around the most pressing issues in income facing families and individuals in Westchester County today.

In the morning’s plenary session, President and CEO Naomi Adler remarked, “It’s so important to have this Income Forum in light of the worsening economy and we thank you for lending your expertise. Issues this size and complexity can only be resolved by tackling and addressing them as a community. The collaborative brain power in the room today will be key to finding the most effective and workable strategies to actually move the needle on these key issues.”

The United Way Income Task Force, a dynamic group of business professionals and community leaders have worked, for the last four months, to determine the root causes and indicators for the most critical income issues affecting Westchester residents. Their work resulted in the following three goals to be discussed at the Income Forum:

1. Individuals in Westchester will be able to adapt to changing employment opportunities.
2. Individuals and families in Westchester will have adequate income to meet their basic needs.
3. Individuals and families in Westchester will gain and sustain assets that lead towards financial independence.

The goal of the forum is to create realistic strategies for these goals that United Way will work with in the next three to five years that will lead to measurable results. Adler said, “This is the dialogue we want to have and we want you to be pro-active and reactive.” At the end of June, United Way will ask all interested agencies to submit a letter of intent outlining how their agency’s programs could best work with the chosen strategies to achieve these income goals.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

Pocantico Hills, NY (May 7, 2009) United Way Tocqueville Society of Westchester and Putnam held its annual recognition dinner on Thursday, May 7, 2009 at the famed Blue Hill at Stone Barns, part of the John D. Rockefeller estate in Pocantico Hills, New York. The United Way of Westchester and Putnam honored the dedication and generosity of its Tocqueville Society, members of the community who annually give $10,000 or more to United Way. 

Underwritten by the Steering Committee, this year’s Tocqueville event honored Robert N. Bischoff, a retired issue editor for Reader’s Digest and chair of the Tocqueville Society from 2007 to 2009, who received the United Way Tower of Leadership Award.  Nancy and Frank Pierson of Larchmont were recipients of the United Way Tocqueville Society Award for their outstanding support of United Way’s 2-1-1 Hudson Valley Region helpline.  Nancy is a member of the Board of Education for the Mamaroneck Union Free School District.  Frank is Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer for Holborn and was President of United Way of Larchmont-Mamaroneck. 

“We are always so thrilled to hold this very special event each year to show our thanks and appreciation to our extraordinary Tocqueville members,” said Naomi Adler, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “Their commitment and dedication has far reaching and tangible effects in the communities that need it most, especially in these trying times.” Return to the top of the page

More than 100 people gathered at the Mansion at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel on Monday, May 18th to enjoy the specialty dishes, fine wines, gourmet coffees and teas and swoon-inducing desserts of some of the Sound Shore’s best culinary talents.  The “Taste of the Sound Shore,” which featured a wine tasting arranged by Blue Dog Wine and Spirits, was a benefit for United Way of Westchester and Putnam.

United Way supporters, including Westchester County Legislators Lois Bronz, Judy Myers and Martin Rogosky; Harrison Mayer Joan Walsh and Harrison Town Clerk Joseph Acocella, listened to the live music of Bas Duo while tasting a wide variety of international and domestic wines and dishes that ranged from Italian to Indian; French to Moroccan and more.  Participating restaurants included: 80 West Restaurant, Ana Maria’s, Aquario, Café Mirage, Cathy’s Specialty Biscotti, Chocolations, Fratelli, La Fontanella, Le Provencal, Lola’s Tea House, Luke’s Brew, Mo’s New York Grill, Rani Mahal, Rue des Crepes, Uncle Henry’s, Willett  House and Zitoune.  In addition, many attendees purchased raffle tickets or bid on silent auction items that were donated by local businesses.

In his remarks to the crowd, United Way of New Rochelle President and Event Co-Chair Frederick P. Wiener noted “Tonight’s event is significant because it marks the first time that volunteers from across the Sound Shore have come together to organize a benefit for United Way…I look forward to many more joint ventures, as we work together to advance the common good in our region.”

Wiener’s Co-Chair, Ada Angarano, who is the president of the Harrison Chamber of Commerce, thanked the Renaissance Westchester Hotel for its support, as well as the event sponsors, including: Murray, Schoen & Homer, Bertha’s European Spa, Custom Staffing, Ruth B. Lowey, Meridian Risk Management, Ray Catena Lexus, Allstate Erbacher & Csenge Agency, Brooke Street Staffing, Alex and Liz Eodice, Gold Rush Jewelers, Hon. Judy Myers, William G. Sayegh, Frederick and Leni Wiener.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

The Westchester Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) Board chaired by UWWP President and CEO Naomi Adler, has been chosen to receive an additional $258,461 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. These funds have been made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

The program meets the emergent needs of hungry and homeless people in Westchester County.

The program's objectives are:
• to allocate funds to the neediest areas,
• to ensure fast response,
• to foster public/private sector cooperation,
• to ensure local decision making, and
• to maintain minimal, but accountable, reporting.

This summer, United Way of Westchester and Putnam will convene the Local Westchester EFSP Board to determine how the ARRA funds are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area.

Eligible applicants must: 1) be a private voluntary nonprofit or unit of government; 2) be eligible to receive federal funds 3) have an accounting system or an approved fiscal agent; 4) conduct an annual audit if awarded $25,000 or more in federal funds; 5) practice non-discrimination; 6) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and shelter services; 7) have a voluntary board, if the applicant is a private voluntary organization.

In 2008, the Local Westchester EFSP Board distributed EFSP funds to 61 participating programs/agencies that were responsible for providing 306,550 meals, awarded 189 grants for rent/mortgage assistance and paid 35 utility bills.

Qualifying agencies are urged to apply by 5:00 P.M., Monday, June 1, 2009

Applications can be downloaded here. Further information on the program may be obtained by contacting:

Mary Ann Luna, EFSP Director
United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Inc.
336 Central Park Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
(914) 997-6700 ext.740 or email at mluna@uwwp.org

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

New York State Governor David Paterson was on hand at the seventh annual Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit, held Monday, May 11 at the Doubletree Hotel Tarrytown, to respond to the challenges nonprofits face in this economy – squeezed by funding cuts and with donor dollars plummeting, the nonprofit sector must find the capacity and resources to respond to the rising tide of basic needs resulting from job and health insurance losses, foreclosures and evictions. Over 700 nonprofit professionals attended the day-long event, which featured speakers and workshops geared to helping nonprofits navigate the current economic crisis.  

Westchester Country Executive Andy Spano began the luncheon session by acknowledging the sector’s difficulties and vowing to maintain the County’s support of the not-for-profits’ work in the community.  Governor Paterson, after painting a bleak assessment of the State’s financial situation, told the audience that he actively supported efforts to engage volunteers to help the beleaguered nonprofit sector, but that revoking budget funding cuts would not be fiscally responsible. He remarked on the positive collaborative power of the nonprofit organizations gathered Monday at the Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit. The governor also answered questions about the MTA bailout, which further burdens nonprofits by exacting a payroll tax, saying that he personally “didn’t like that solution.” Thomas A. McLaughlin, Director of Consulting Services, Nonprofit FinanceFund, also spoke, as the breakfast keynote speaker.

 “I’m so pleased that Governor Paterson addressed nonprofit leaders here at the Summit, and that our County Executive, Andy Spano, who is a long-time friend of our not-for-profit organizations, came to show his support,” said Naomi Adler, President and CEO of Westchester and Putnam. She added, “The Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit is very helpful to our nonprofits, whose work is so important to the wellbeing of Westchester residents. Not having the luxury of expensive consultants and large staffs, nonprofit leaders can use the learning, networking and growth opportunities provided by the Summit’s workshops.”

The annual Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit is presented by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Community Foundation and ArtsWestchester.  The Summit brings together volunteer and professional leaders from a wide range of organizations engaged in health and human services, the arts and the environment to identify emerging challenges and opportunities, shape new leadership strategies and build organizations that excel.  Secretary of State Hillary Clinton helped found the Summit following 9/11, and was a yearly speaker and a strong supporter of Westchester’s 1200-plus nonprofit organizations during her years as New York senator.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 72 Return to the top of the page

When:             May 11, 8:00AM-4:00PM

Where:            Doubletree Hotel Tarrytown, Tarrytown, NY

Who:               Presented by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Community Foundation and ArtsWestchester

Speakers:      NYS Governor David A. Paterson (luncheon keynote) and Thomas A. McLaughlin (breakfast keynote)

Contact:         Lynn Honeysett, SVP Marketing and Communications, United Way of Westchester and Putnam (914.997.6700 ext 720).

With funding cuts and donor resources plummeting, how does the nonprofit sector respond to the rising tide of human need resulting from job and health insurance losses, foreclosure, eviction and other by-products of the recession?

The seventh annual Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit will offer practical guidance, tools and inspiration for nonprofits struggling to meet the needs of the community. The keynote speakers will be New York State Governor David A. Paterson and Thomas A. McLaughlin, Director, Consulting Services, Nonprofit Finance Fund. Both keynote speakers will have a Q&A session from the nonprofit audience. Governor Paterson will answer questions from the media in the press room following his speech and public Q&A. The Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit usually attracts 800-1,000 nonprofits and other professionals from Westchester and surrounding counties.

Sixteen morning and afternoon NFP Leadership Summit breakouts and workshops will focus on everything from leveraging the volunteer talents of unemployed professionals to management tools for turbulent times, to crisis communication skills, to finding new donor markets, and more. Along with workshops and breakfast and luncheon presenters, an afternoon networking reception encourages further opportunities for discussion and exchange.

The fee for initial registrants is $30, and $20 for each additional person from the same organization. For more information or to register, please click here or call 914 997 6700 x 704 Return to the top of the page

May 6, 2009 - White Plains, NY - The Ruth Taylor Award Fund, established in tribute to Ruth Taylor upon her retirement as Commissioner of Public Welfare of Westchester County and in recognition of her nearly four decades of outstanding service to the County in the field of social welfare and health, gives grants for scholarship awards, for tuition or maintenance, or both.

Eligible individuals must be residents of Westchester County pursuing graduate level education on a full-time basis at accredited U.S. colleges or schools in social welfare or public health.  For the 2009-10 academic year, awards will range between $1,000 and $5,000. The application deadline is June 8, 2009.

Financial need, public service and scholastic capacity are part of the evaluation criteria. Recipients must maintain the minimum cumulative University GPA for the duration of the award.  Awards are issued annually, and recipients are eligible on a one-time only basis. A change in major or enrollment status will result in loss of the scholarship award.

Inquiries can be directed to: United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Karen Bonaparte, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives via email. Find out more. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY – A stellar group of nearly 100 experts in education and youth-serving organizations gathered at United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s first Education Forum to develop strategies in order to move the needle on three key education goals:

1. Children and Youth Are Academically Successful
2. Children and Youth Make Healthy and Safe Decisions
3. Young Children Enter School Prepared to Achieve

“You are the true education experts in our community,” declared Naomi Adler, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, to the group. “Your expertise will guide us to the strategies that can actually make measurable progress towards these education goals.”

The education goals were developed in response to a United Way community assessment conducted last fall that identified the most critical issues in Westchester. The Education Forum is one of three forums that United Way of Westchester and Putnam will be conducting over the coming year to tackle these critical issues. An upcoming Income Forum will develop strategies around financial stability. A forum on Health will follow late this year or early 2010.

The Education Forum took place on March 31st at Pace University’s Lubin Graduate Center in White Plains. Later this month, organizations will be invited to submit letters of intent to work collaboratively on the United Way education initiatives resulting from the Forum.

“We need everyone working together to meet these large, important community goals in education. We can’t do it alone, nor can any one agency or school address the social, academic, economic and environmental ingredients to a child’s success in school,” stated Ms. Adler. “With collaborative teams of partners focusing on several key initiatives we can establish benchmarks, measure our successes, find efficiencies and leverage organizations’ strengths. With this kind of community participation, and buy-in to the goals, we can move the needle on critical issues – to everyone’s benefit.” Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY - Each year United Way of Westchester and Putnam bestows its highest honor, the “Spirit of Westchester and Putnam Awards.”  The awards were established to draw attention to the many outstanding contributions from community, volunteer, partnership, corporate, and labor leadership, who with United Way, help to strengthen Westchester and Putnam communities. 

In response to the economic recession, the annual “Spirit of Caring” Awards Luncheon has been cancelled this year. President and CEO Naomi Adler emphasized that the awards mean just as much this year as ever. “We owe so much gratitude to our award recipients for their stellar contributions and we want everyone to know how they have added to the quality of our lives here, especially in this difficult time.”   

The United Way Board selected winners in the following five categories:  volunteerism, partnership, community leadership, labor, and corporate.

CountyLegislatorLois Bronz, who will be retiring this year, was honored with the Volunteer Award for her unwavering commitment to her community throughout her life and particularly for her dedicated time and effort to the United Way community.

The Partnership Award recognizes an organization and its leadership that have collaborated in formal, innovative and effective ways with United Way to make the Westchester and Putnam area a stronger community.  Knowledge Networks is this year’s recipient of the Partnership Award for its generous collaborative efforts to create an online tool for a needs assessment survey, a critical step to establishing United Way’s future health, education, and income initiatives.

United Way of Northern Westchester (1959-2009) was chosen for the Community Leadership Award as a culmination of 50 years of fundraising and advancing the common good.  This year’s annual leadership dinner was Northern Westchester’s largest and most successful event to date more than doubling their fundraising dollars from the previous year.

The New RochelleSchool District will receive this year’s Labor Award due to their tremendous community volunteering and fundraising efforts. 

At a time when company campaigns are growing ever scarce, Entergy has actually increased their employee campaign contributions from last year, thereby earning the Corporate Award.

In lieu of the luncheon, this year’s winners will be announced to the press and the awards will be personally presented to them at their workplace and formally acknowledged at United Way’s annual benefit, “Racing to Save Lives” on June 18 at Yonkers Raceway. In its second year, “Racing to Save Lives” brings much needed financial support to cancer patients by raising funds for vital transportation services which enable those in need to receive life-sustaining medical treatments.

While the Spirit of Caring Awards Luncheon may be cancelled, the spirit of the awards certainly is not. Return to the top of the page

March 26, 2009 -- White Plains, NY -- United Way of Westchester and Putnam is inviting community leaders and professionals with expertise in education and youth issues to attend its first Education Forum on March 31st. The Forum will take place from 9AM-3PM at Pace University’s Lubin Graduate Center in White Plains. 

By pooling expertise and examining data, participants will help United Way develop strategies that can meet a series of measurable education goals over time.  This effort follows United Way’s recent needs assessment survey which identified the most critical issues in education in Westchester.

In April, organizations will be invited to submit letters of intent to work collaboratively on the United Way education initiatives resulting from the Forum (information and registration can be found at www.uwwp.org).

“We need everyone working together to meet these large, important community goals in education.  We can’t do it alone, nor can any one agency or school address the social, academic, economic and environmental ingredients to a child’s success in school – particularly now,” stated Naomi Adler, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “With collaborative teams of partners focusing on several key initiatives we can establish benchmarks, measure our successes, find efficiencies and leverage organizations’ strengths. With this kind of community participation, and buy-in to the goals, we can move the needle on critical issues – to everyone’s benefit.”

The Education Forum will help develop strategies to achieve progress on the following goals:

1. Children and youth are academically successful
2. Children and youth make healthy and safe decisions
3. Young children enter school prepared to achieve

The Education Forum will be followed by an Income Forum in May 2009 which will examine issues around creating and maintaining financial stability.  A Health Forum will be announced later this year.

The United Way focus on Education, Income and Health reflects United Way of America’s national measurable goal-setting of improving lives in our community by strengthening these three important building blocks to a better life.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page