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GOAL: HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE REALIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL.
OVER 130 VOLUNTEERS MADE AN IMPACT THROUGH GREAT BOOK GIVEAWAY, STUFF THE BUS, READING MENTORSHIPS, AND THE YOUTH OPPORTUNITY COALITION IN 2025.
CHILDCARE ACCESS
For many ALICE families, low wages and non-traditional work schedules mean before and after school care is necessary, yet unaffordable. United Way's investment in partner programs helps ALICE families bridge the gap - meaning more families with financial need can access safe, trustworthy wrap around care.
- 1,021 children received before and after school or summer enrichment through partner programs in 2025.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
ALICE families don't have the means to enroll in many youth programs, leaving children behind their peers and without valuable life skills. United Way's investment in partner programs provides sponsorships to ALICE families - meaning youth have access to mentorships and skill-building programs.
- 622 youth benefited from programs teaching leadership, life skills, and healthy social development in 2025.
- 750 students with financial need received free school supplies through Stuff the Desk in 2025.
PROVIDER SUPPORT
The need for childcare far outpaces the number of available childcare slots. United Way's investment reduces barriers and provides resources to new programs, helps providers become regulated, and ensures training opportunities to improve safety & quality of care.
- 36 providers received support and assistance through partner programs in 2025 to increase access to childcare.
LITERACY PROMOTION
In 2024, 31% of Wisconsin fourth graders achieved proficiency on the national assessment. Students with low literacy are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Literacy impacts school success, job readiness, health outcomes, and economic productivity. United Way and Women United invests in local childhood literacy.
- 5,458 books mailed to children in south Wood and Adams Counties through Women United and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in 2025.
- 904 books were provided to children through Great Book Giveaway 2026.
- $9,675 was invested by Women United in 10 literacy programs at local elementary schools in 2025.
Source: Forward Literacy, United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties, United Way of Wisconsin ALICE Report 2026, UWSWAC Partner Programs, Women United, Youth Opportunity Coalition
SUCCESS STORY
This year, a local youth organization's Morning Program embraced the power of service and community connection. Children and staff worked together to create and distribute more than 300 handmade spring and Easter cards that were shared with recipients through the meal programs, local assisted living homes, and the local police department.
As they worked on the project, they talked to the youth about each of the organizations, who they serve, and why they are such an important part of our community. It helped the children understand that community service comes in many different forms and that something as simple as a handmade card can brighten someone’s day.
This project gave the youth the opportunity to practice kindness, empathy, and gratitude while showing them that they can make a positive impact, no matter their age. Watching them take pride in creating something for others was a great reminder that building a stronger community starts with small acts of kindness. United Way invests in spaces like this for local children so all children can access these experiences in a safe environment.
