Helping Children and Youth Achieve Their Potential in Greater New Haven

United Way works with parents, educators, community leaders and elected officials to ensure that children in this region have the resources they need to begin school ready to learn and to continue to succeed as they grow into young adults.

Success By 6® is United Way ’s regional initiative to ensure that more children come to school ready to learn. We know that children who have engaged, supported parents and quality preschool experiences are more likely to: read at grade level by 3rd grade; score well on the 4th grade mastery tests; stay out of the juvenile justice system; and stay in school. In the last three years, United Way has invested over $500,000 to enhance the quality of preschool programs and increase parent engagement in our region. We’ve also worked closely with partners like The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and local School Readiness Councils to raise awareness and promote dialogue about the importance of quality early care and learning.

United Way’s commitment to youth extends beyond school readiness. Young people who have mentors, safe places to go after school and equitable educational opportunities are more likely to be academically, socially and emotionally successful. That’s why we’re excited about Experience Corps. In 18 cities across the country, Experience Corps taps older adults (55+) to mentor kindergarten to third grade students. Students in Experience Corps increase their academic achievement and scores on standardized tests. Senior volunteers report increased feelings of well-being and social connection. United Way and the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut have partnered to implement Experience Corps in the Greater New Haven region. Experience Corps is currently in two elementary schools in Hamden and we have plans to expand the program to other schools and districts in the coming years.

1. Increase the percentage of children who attend preschool in New Haven and the “inner ring” communities.

2. Improve the quality of early care and education experiences.

3. Increase parents’ and primary caregivers’ knowledge of the important developmental milestones their children must meet to come to school success-ready

4. Increase public awareness about the positive effect that quality care and education can have for the community at large.