United Way of Allegheny County announced its funding allocations for children and youth programs this week, giving $2.4 million to more than 15 programs.
United Way focused its attention on after school programs, summer programs, future leaders programs, college preparation programs and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs.
Alicia Chatkin, United Way’s director of programs for children and youth, said the funding is meant to help children in two age groups.
“Particularly in the children and youth area, United Way is very focused on two key areas: building foundations for academic success, and that really focuses on the pre-k through fifth grade population; and then also, enhancing education and career readiness for youth and young adults,” Chatkin said.
All programs supporting youth and children will receive funding through United Way’s Community Impact Fund for the next three years.
Chatkin said the funding allows students to better their lives now and in the future.
“For youth and for families and for the community at large, what’s so exciting is it’s giving youth opportunities that they might not have otherwise to really propel them to be their best and achieve their utmost potential,” Chatkin said.
United for Women was founded in September 2012. The group looks to lend a helping hand for women who experience hard economic times, divorce, the death of a spouse or military service. United Way has generated $700,000 in donations, with $590,000 going to fund projects focused on women shelters, the homeless, female veterans and economic issues.
Funding from United Way comes after a competitive process. Proposals are examined by community and corporate volunteers, program sites are visited and findings are measured by need. From there, all funding allocations are approved by United Way’s Board of Directors.
