Fall 2024 Newsletter

Freedom School Recap

Freedom Schools has once again been a tremendous success this year! With 487 scholars K–8th grade across five different sites, each day was brimming with engaging reading activities, enriching educational experiences, and the support of dedicated Servant Leader Interns. Throughout the summer, over 2,900 books were distributed to the scholars. Feedback from parents underscores the program’s impact: 85% responded that their child’s desire to learn increased following the completion of Freedom Schools; 83% replied that their child’s general interest in reading increased as well; 86% of parents that responded said their child’s overall confidence and self-esteem changed for the better; and 92% stated that their child is much more likely to pursue their passions following the completion of the Freedom Schools program. United Way proudly acknowledges the significant, positive influence of Freedom Schools on the community and is honored to be a partner with and financially support the Freedom Schools collaborative.

UPCOMING EVENT:

Empower & Unite Volleyball Tournament

Join us for a day of competitive fun and community impact! All proceeds benefit the United Way of the Greater Dayton Area.

Date: Saturday, October 19th

Location: Miami Valley Sand, West Carrolton, OH

To register visit daytonvbc.com and select “Generic 4’s” if the event-specific option isn’t available. Please choose your appropriate level of play. Note: The director may adjust your team’s play level if necessary.

YOUR IMPACT

Thank you for your support!

At United Way of the Greater Dayton Area we pride ourselves on making sure that the essential needs of those in our community are met. Some of these needs include food, shelter, medical care and freedom from violence. We do this by investing in people through synchronized programs, services and initiatives that make a real difference throughout our region. One of these programs is HelpLink 211. HelpLink 211 is a 24/7-365 lifeline to a free, confidential, and compassionate professional who will review your situation and connect you with resources to meet the needs of you and your family.

Tour de Gem Cycling Classic Recap

What an amazing day at Tour de Gem 2024!

From fun and fitness to fundraising, we embraced every moment—rain or shine. The field included young riders, serious cyclists, groups out for conversation and comradery, those who enjoy a fun way to fundraise and a few fans just cheering on the cyclists. The excitement didn’t end there; the Dayton Dragons game kept the vibrant spirit going strong into the evening!

A huge thank you to all the cyclists and baseball fans who joined us and made this event truly unforgettable.

Together, we’re making an ever-growing impact by supporting valuable services such as HelpLink 211 and empowering other non-profits to continue their important work in our communities.

Greene County Strong Families Classic Recap

We had an incredible time at our Annual Greene County Strong Families Classic!

The event had fantastic weather and an amazing turnout, with over 27 teams coming together to support the Strong Families cause in Greene County. There was something fun to do at almost every hole. From Frozen Treats and Air Cannons to unique prizes including a motorcycle, an autographed football, tickets to entertainment venues and more.

Your participation and enthusiasm helped us raise funds that will directly benefit our Strong Families Initiative which strives to stabilize families in a safe home.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event a great success for our community!

Employee Spotlight

Laura Engel

Manager of Community Initiatives

Laura’s role at United Way has always been driven by her passion for uplifting others. Among her many achievements, she takes the greatest pride in the Hope to Dream project—an initiative she helped launch in 2016 to provide 50 beds to 50 children in need annually. The most rewarding moment for Laura is witnessing the joy on the children’s faces when they see their new beds for the first time. Beyond this impactful project, Laura has made significant contributions through her work with the Freedom Schools Collaborative, administering FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program, supporting the Tour de Gem biking event, and advancing various reading initiatives. Her efforts have not only strengthened United Way but also enriched the community. Outside of her professional endeavors, Laura enjoys gardening, spending quality time with her niece and nephews, and traveling to new places, often staying at Airbnb’s along the way. Her favorite experience is bungee jumping off a bridge in California.