United Way Quad Cities

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at United Way Quad Cities! ?? Today, we're extra thankful for our incredible team and the endless dedication they show in helping our community grow stronger every day. This year, our staff has so much to be thankful for, from the inspiring partners we work with to the joy of seeing lives transformed through our programs.

In the spirit of the season of giving, Emerging Leaders came together to volunteer at YouthHope, preparing Thanksgiving food bags for over 120 families in need. In addition to the meals, they packed winter gear, books and toys to bring extra warmth and joy to the community.?

They talked. We listened. YOU helped. We successfully captured the voices of more than 850 middle school students across Scott and Rock Island counties as part of our Student Voices roundtables last week. These insights will play a crucial role in shaping solutions to improve attendance and boost academic performance in our community. This effort would not have been possible without our dedicated volunteers and generous Student Voices investors: IHMVCU, Empeople Credit Union, Ascentra Credit Union, and The Family Credit Union. Together, we’re paving the way for meaningful change in education and creating a brighter future for all students.

Ever wondered how today’s middle schoolers feel about their education? With the help of our incredible volunteers, we were able to find out during our Student Voices event last week. “When we keep students engaged throughout their academic careers, they become stronger leaders and role models for their peers,” said Patrick Angerer, IHMVCU Business Development Officer. “That’s why IHMVCU, along with Empeople Credit Union, Ascentra Credit Union and The Family Credit Union are supporting United Way and their Student Voices initiative. We’re giving area middle schoolers ownership of their future. United is the way that we create opportunity for all youth in the Quad Cities.” Catch the full story: https://ytubl.ink/3C5J?

Strong readers ?? Successful leaders. This #AmericanEducationWeek, we’re rallying our community to empower young readers and create future leaders through literacy. At United Way Quad Cities, we’re on a mission to distribute 3,000 copies of “The Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge” to children across the Quad Cities and raise $200,000 to fund literacy programs that level the playing field for underserved kids. This initiative isn’t just about books; it’s about opening doors and giving every child the chance to dream big. Be a superhero for our community’s kids. Join us in inspiring the next generation by contributing to this mission and helping us reach more children. Whether you purchase a book for a classroom or contribute to our early childhood reading initiatives, you’re a hero for literacy: https://bityl.co/Sq5n #KidsUnited #BeAHero

Reading boosts vocabulary and enhances critical thinking skills, setting the foundation for lifelong learning. ?? The Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge encourages young readers to embrace their inner superheroes as they discover their own powers and work together. ALL proceeds from book sales support youth programs that empower kids to develop these vital skills and make a difference in their communities. By sharing this story, you’re helping to inspire the next generation of changemakers. Buy a book. Support students. https://bityl.co/Slw2?

A wise person once said: “We have the right leadership with the right vision for the Quad Cities. The time to act is now.” Ironically, that person – Decker Ploehn – is one of the most fervent leaders in unlocking opportunity for everyone who calls the QC home. Help us congratulate Decker: @The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) IL, Quad Cities Chapter and Quad Cities Community Foundation’s National Philanthropy Day ??????????????????????? ?????????????????? ????????????????????.? This award honors those who demonstrate unmatched skills mobilizing and activating others to lift up nonprofits. As a #UnitedWayQC Board Member, 2024 Community Campaign Chair, prestigious Tocqueville Society Member and champion for many causes in our community, Decker holds a special place in our hearts.?He’s made a lasting impact to help more neighbors in need to reach their potential. ?? Pictured: Decker, Jayne Ploehn, Karrie Abbott and Angela Snyder?

Kindness leads to connection. Connection strengthens our community. On this #WorldKindnessDay, we’re especially grateful for our community partners and changemakers. Together, we’re opening doors to more opportunities for success in education, financial security and health. When we Rise United, we rise together! Special thank you to Smart Automotive of Davenport and SquareOne

Did you know that reading proficiency by third grade is a key predictor of future success? ?? It’s like having a superpower – one that can unlock endless opportunities! That’s why The Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge, written by United Way President and CEO Rene Gellerman, is more than just a story.?It’s a tool that focuses on the qualities that empower kids to grow strong and evolve into brilliant leaders and changemakers. With every book purchased, you're supporting United Way literacy programs that empower kids to develop their own “superpowers” and shape their futures. Purchase a copy to donate to a classroom: https://amz.run/9h2z #KidsUnited #BeAHero

Reading by third grade is a powerful stepping stone for lifelong success Here’s a book you can read to your favorite kid that’ll help them become stronger readers AND better leaders! With The Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge, young readers are introduced to characters who use their superpowers – kindness, joy and problem-solving – to make a real difference. Proceeds from every purchase support #UnitedWayQC literacy programs that empower kids to build these essential skills and shape their futures. Together, we can help the next generation of leaders succeed. Purchase a copy for a student: https://amz.run/9h2z? #KidsUnited #BeAHero