United Way campaign to focus on youth development

Rob Creenan, Niagara Gazette, Niagara Falls, N.Y.
·2 min read

Sep. 22—There's a new mission for the United Way of Greater Niagara — it's now emphasizing childhood development.

Called Growing Up United, it will shift the United Way's focus on investing in programs that align with the organization's new goal of social, emotional and mental development in youths.

The United Way sent out a countywide survey in January asking for community feedback on what impacts the community felt were most important. President and CEO Andrea Gray said that youth development came out on top.

Applications for organizations to apply open on Oct. 1, Gray said she is anticipating agencies the United Way already funds like the Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army and Youth Mentoring Services of Niagara County will seek funding.

"We're opening it up to anybody who deals with youth," Gray said. "We hope that some new agencies and some new programs will come forward."

A committee will look at the applications received to determine which agencies best align with its mission.

As part of the new campaign, the United Way's website received an update showing more transparency on where the money they raise goes. It is also more interactive for donors by having its pledge form and different ways to donate.

According to the website, there are 42,115 kids under the age of 18 in Niagara County. Of that amount, 21%, or 8,844, were living in poverty in cities, 49%, or 20,636, received free or reduced lunch at school, and 20%, or 8,423, received supplemental assistance.

Last year, the United Way raised around $745,000 toward its campaign, with Gray hoping more comes this year. It will still donate to organizations its donors designate money for.

The campaign and new website changes were announced at the annual awards breakfast on Friday, with the United Way recognizing those who have contributed to the organization's mission. It launched with a $25,000 donation from IBEW Local 237.

This years winners are:

—M&T receiving the President's Award

—Rachel Brennan receiving the Norman Sinclair Humanitarian Award

—Mental Health Services of Niagara County receiving the Service Cup Award

—Maid of the Mist receiving the Shining Star Award

—Scott Jones receiving the AFL/CIO Russell Quarantello Community Service Award

—Joanne Beaton receiving the Joseph C. Weber "Think Positive . . . Think United Way" Award