What We Do

Give All Kids Equal Opportunities

What We Do

Give All Kids Equal Opportunities

Together, we can ensure every child in our community has access to quality early learning experiences prior to kindergarten – setting them up for lifelong success.

What we're up against

Benchmark measurement: In 2022, statewide data showed that only 82.6% of third graders score at or above Maine state expectations for reading.

By tracking these data points over a 10-year period and in collaboration with Impact2032, our goal is to increase the number of 3rd graders scoring at or above state expectations for reading to 87%.

A red circle with a white outline of a book in the middle -- representing education.

Together, we can ensure every child in our community has access to quality early learning experiences prior to kindergarten – setting them up for lifelong success.

What we're up against

Benchmark measurement: In 2022, statewide data showed that only 82.6% of third graders score at or above Maine state expectations for reading.

By tracking these data points over a 10-year period and in collaboration with Impact2032, our goal is to increase the number of 3rd graders scoring at or above state expectations for reading to 87%.

How we make it better

Early brain development is crucial for children to become lifelong learners and successful readers. And the transition from learning to read to reading for comprehension occurs around third grade, marking a critical turning point. If children are not reading at the appropriate grade level by this stage, they are likely to face difficulties in other subjects. Investing in the success of our children is the most significant contribution we can make to the well-being of our entire community.

That’s why United Way of Kennebec Valley invests in programs that ensure all basic health and safety needs can be met to be successful and ready for learning.

Through investments in 16 different education programs across the county, UWKV can provide children and families with resources and opportunities to develop literacy and language skills that support school readiness and promote their social and emotional development.

An outline of a book in white with a ribbon on the corner

76.6%

Percentage of economically disadvantaged 3rd graders who score at or above state expectations for reading.

Help make Education Inequality
UNIGNORABLE

Education inequality can feel like being perpetually excluded from opportunities available to others. Imagine every other student in the class having access to resources, while you do not. This exclusion not only affects one’s sense of belonging but also their long-term health and financial stability. Without equal access to quality education, children and adults miss out on essential knowledge and skills, limiting career prospects and earning potential. This disadvantage follows them throughout life, contributing to chronic stress, poorer health outcomes, and a cycle of poverty that’s hard to break.

The ripple effects of education inequality extend beyond the individual to the community. A community with widespread educational disparities often faces higher unemployment rates, lower economic growth, and increased social tensions. Limited educational opportunities can stifle innovation and reduce overall productivity, hindering the community’s development and well-being. The sense of exclusion and lack of opportunity can also breed resentment and social unrest, further destabilizing the community. Addressing education inequality is not just about providing opportunities for individuals; it’s about fostering a healthier, more prosperous, and cohesive community.

The outline of hands holding an empty plate.

15.1%

Percentage of children who experience food insecurity.

Help make Hunger
UNIGNORABLE

Food insecurity profoundly affects children, impacting their ability to learn, natural development, and overall well-being. When a child is hungry, it’s like a constant, gnawing ache that consumes their every thought. They can’t focus on anything but the need for food. In school, learning becomes an uphill battle; their empty stomach distracts them, making it hard to concentrate on lessons or absorb new information. This relentless hunger also affects their ability to make friendships. Instead of playing and interacting with peers, they’re preoccupied with the pain in their belly. Hunger overshadows every aspect of their life, leaving them feeling isolated and powerless.

Childhood hunger can lead to long-term health problems, including weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses. The lack of proper nutrition stunts physical and cognitive development, creating barriers to educational achievement. Limited education reduces job opportunities and earning potential, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and financial instability.

15% of Kennebec County children are food insecure. They don’t choose the lives that they have. It’s a struggle that no child should have to face, impacting their growth, development, overall health, and future financial stability.

COMMUNITY PRIORITIES

Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness

Early Social & Emotional Development

Basic Health & Safety Needs Met

COMMUNITY PRIORITIES

Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness

Early Social & Emotional Development

Basic Health & Safety Needs Met

Help us give all kids equal opportunities!

Help us give all kids equal opportunities!

EDUCATION PARTNERS

United Way of Kennebec Valley partners with 12 agencies specifically to create positive learning experiences throughout our community. UWKV funds one or more programs, through the following organizations, that strive to give all kids equal opportunities throughout Kennebec County.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine

Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley

Capital Area New Mainers Project

Children’s Center

Family Violence Project

Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP)

Kennebec Valley YMCA

Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec

Maine School Administrative District 11

MaineGeneral Health

Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation

State YMCA of Maine

EDUCATION PARTNERS

United Way of Kennebec Valley partners with 12 agencies specifically to create positive learning experiences throughout our community. UWKV funds one or more programs, through the following organizations, that strive to give all kids equal opportunities throughout Kennebec County.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine

Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley

Capital Area New Mainers Project

Children’s Center

Family Violence Project

Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP)

Kennebec Valley YMCA

Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec

Maine School Administrative District 11

MaineGeneral Health

Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation

State YMCA of Maine

Learn More

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