United Way Announces 100th Anniversary Goal

As United Way California Capital Region celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, the local nonprofit working to end poverty through education has announced a new goal to raise $3 million to help 10,000 kids excel in school by 2025.

“This is such an important year as we celebrate 100 years working together with this community to end poverty for local families,” said Dr. Dawnté Early, president and CEO, United Way California Capital Region. “We have learned so much over the past 100 years, and now we are ready to enter our next century with a bold new goal. We know education is a proven ladder out of poverty, and we know school is square one for reaching families in need. With kids coming out of Covid even more behind in school, we have doubled down on our commitment to raise the resources necessary for our region’s children to excel in school and thrive as adults.”

Focusing on schools through its Square One approach, United Way California Capital Region offers a wide array of programming and services to ensure children and their families have the resources they need to succeed in school and in adulthood. From a regional reading tutoring program and school-readiness services for incoming kindergarteners to an income program for foster youth, guaranteed income for families, free tax preparation services and more, United Way has created a holistic approach that starts in schools. United Way’s work centers families in their children’s academic achievement by helping children excel in school, investing in families, and strengthening schools with resources to address increased poverty and deep roots of racial inequality.   

“We know a quality education helps children develop social, emotional and cognitive skills that lay the foundation for a more fulfilling and stable life,” Early said. “Research shows that students who are not proficient in reading by the end of third grade falter in later grades and often drop out before earning a high school diploma.”

To make a donation to the 100th anniversary campaign or to learn more about United Way’s programs and services, visit: YourLocalUnitedWay.org. For 100 years, United Way California Capital Region has been working to end poverty by creating stronger, healthier, more compassionate communities. Since 1923, the local United Way has raised more than $500 million to fight poverty in the region and help families succeed.

United Way’s milestone year will culminate on April 29 with its 100th Anniversary Gala at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium. The fundraiser will honor the local United Way’s past, recognize present impact, and look forward to building a future where everyone in the region has the opportunities and resources to thrive. The event will include silent and live auctions, dinner and a keynote presentation by San Francisco 49er Arik Armstead who also cofounded the Armstead Academic Project that supports students in Sacramento and the Bay Area. For tickets, visit YourLocalUnitedWay.org.