Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/40928
Live United United Way of Delaware knows that education matters All of DSEA's staff con- tributes to United Way of Delaware because they know that its agencies care about quality education, and healthy kids and fami- lies – which helps you! life – Education, Income, and Health. Children deserve a high- quality education, and we all have a vested interest in helping to ensure that our next generation is pre- pared for success. United Way of Delaware also believes that: U • Education, particularly early education before age five, is criti- cal to long-term success. • Participation in high-quality early care and education is direct- ly correlated to early-grade literacy, successful middle-school transi- tions, on-time high school gradua- tion rates and completion of college and/or transition to the workforce. • A mentoring program can com- plement a child's education and progress in school when there are adults and children in partnership with a school or other local educa- tional program. You know firsthand that the abili- ty to function in our evolving world, get a good job and become a well- rounded individual requires a qual- ity education, beginning in the formative years. That's why United Way gives priority to agencies that support these three educational efforts. nited Way of Delaware believes there are three building blocks for a good Children of Dagsboro Church smile wide after receiving free backpacks this summer from United Way and Target Stores. We all win when a child succeeds in school, when families are self-sufficient, and when community members are healthy and inde- pendent. "I contribute to the United Way because a couple of times in my life I have had to rely upon the aid which agencies associated with the United Way could pro- vide. I feel the United Way helps the community in which I live to be a stronger, healthier com- munity, and that the money I contribute is used in the most responsible fashion possible." Paul Kough, librarian Etta J. Wilson E.S., Newark, Christina S.D. But, as you know, the Delaware community needs to come together to do more. And United Way of Delaware recognizes that you need additional support to train the next generation of leaders. Living United: United Way of Delaware partnerships that count Fulfill Basic Needs – Earlier this summer, United Way of Delaware joined with other United Ways on the national "Day of Action" to stuff 50,000 backpacks at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. For doing its part, UWD received 3,600 backpacks from Target for children in need in Delaware. Impact Education Policy in Delaware – Working collaborative- ly with the state's education stake- holders, United Way of Delaware continues to advocate for Delaware Stars, a star-rating system to ensure quality early care and education programs. Earlier this year, their collective efforts resulted in the Governor's proposal to invest an additional $22 million in early childhood care and education, with $9 million marked for an increase in the Purchase of Care rates, and $13 million to supplement technical assistance for Stars providers. Provide Resources for Delaware Families – Quality afterschool pro- grams and safe, fun recreational activities are the core of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware. At the Greater Dover Clubs, executive director Darrell Tingle and staff work to provide education-based programs that matter. Says Tingle: "A lot of people think we're here to let kids play games – and there is some of that. But the fact is, we do a lot more, including homework assistance and tutoring, drug and smoking prevention and physical fitness activities. United Way fund- ing is critical to providing pro- grams that Dover families really rely on." How you can get involved DSEA encourages you to make a payroll deduction donation where you work, and support more than 100 community programs working to make a difference. As we already know as union members, our voices are powerful tools for creating community change. We can advocate on behalf of others to help make change hap- pen. We can spread the word about causes you believe in, by support- ing policies around education, income and health. And last but not least, we can vol- unteer and encourage others to do the same. To learn more and donate to the 2011 Campaign online, visit . For volunteer opportunities, visit . If your work site doesn't have an annual United Way drive, and you'd like to give your colleagues a chance to learn more about United way, talk to your principal or super- intendent. 14 September 2011 DSEA ACTION! www.dsea.org www.uwde.org online.com/getinvolved www.delaware