United Way Suncoast Inc.

United Way Suncoast has chosen Literacy as a key focus for our education efforts. Through the Early Literacy Initiative (ELI), UWS provides leadership and advances collaboration creating an integrated program models using evidence based best practices to support and expand early literacy strategies. 

As the leader for the Campaign for Grade Level Reading, United Way Suncoast aims to increase the number of students reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade, a key predictor of high school graduation. Currently, only 50% reach that goal.

UWS will accomplish this goal through partnerships with local school districts, colleges, universities, non-profit agencies, and other entities. 

Key programmatic elements include:

-Resources and training assistance for parents to help their child become stronger readers.

-Access to books for children and quality academic enriched summer camps that eliminate summer learning loss for low income children

-Access to trained volunteers helping students with reading.-Building community awareness around the importance of early literacy and reading on grade level by 3rd grade.

-Training and resources for preschool, out-of-school time providers to improve the quality of their program.

In cooperation with community partners, UWS is able to provide programs and services to help individuals achieve educational, professional and financial goals.

The Sulphur Springs Resource Center primary focus area is financial stability through workforce development and economic support. The center works with individuals and community partners to address employment, educational and social service needs for our clients.

In partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation and City of St. Petersburg, the Campbell Park Resource Center at John Hopkins Middle School was opened to focus on the development, financial stability, and sustainability of south St. Petersburg’s Campbell Park Neighborhood.

In Clearwater (North Greenwood), United Way Suncoast partnered with Clearwater Police Department, St. Pete Community College, and Pinellas County Schools to offer its Operation Graduate program focused on tutoring, mentoring, graduation, and college readiness for juniors and seniors living in the surrounding area.

In Manatee, UWS is focused on educational services in La Mirada Apartments, Bradenton Village, and Rubonia Community Center. These centers offers high-quality educational and parenting programs to our most vulnerable children and families. By providing educational opportunities in public and affordable housing communities, financial and transportation barriers are removed, and children and their families can focus on learning.

United Way Suncoast's work is part of a larger neighborhood plan fostering economic stability and community involvement by offering community coordination and services to connect families to needed resources. These centers are continuously at the core of the neighborhood’s support systems and have become part of the fabric of the community and the people they represent. UWS is always looking to the future and constantly exploring opportunities to expand services and increase partnerships to better serve the community.