14 Ways We Will Improve Lives in 2014

At United Way of Central Florida, we bring together the people and resources needed to create lasting change with a measurable impact in our community. By working with experts in the areas of Education, Income, Health and Safety net, we identify community needs, and then coordinate the efforts to address those needs. With 2014 just starting, here are 14 ways we will improve lives in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties this year:

1. Children will enter kindergarten with the vocabulary skills needed to read and learn.
2. Families will learn budgeting and money management skills in order to stabilize their finances or save for the purchase of a major asset.
3. Individuals will learn and implement healthy living techniques in order to avoid emergency room visits, unnecessary hospitalizations, or live independently.
4. Families in crisis will find assistance to ease their immediate emergency, and training needed to help stabilize their future.
5. Children will improve reading and math skills through tutoring and after-school programs designed to meet their needs.
6. Individuals will get the help they need to improve their income through certifications and other trainings.
7. Individuals will get the assistance they need to leave behind a life of alcohol or drug dependency, avoid incarceration, and receive training to be employable.
8. Immediate needs will be met for individuals and families in crisis, including transitional housing, in some cases.
9. Children will attend school more frequently, allowing them more classroom time and a better chance at academic success.
10. Families and individuals will improve credit scores in order to facilitate the purchase of major assets.
11. Individuals with physical or mental health issues will be given access to the assistance they need to improve their lives.
12. Families with small children will have access to educational resources and guidance at Family Fundamentals.
13. 2-1-1 Referral Specialists will connect people with the resources they need to improve their lives.
14. Issues will be addressed holistically, because a good education, a stable income, and good health are all tied together. Without one, the others falter, and all three are needed for a good quality of life.

We can't do all of these things without you! Your passion, expertise, or financial support are what allows us to make these changes in the lives of people in our community. When we work together, we do more than any single person or organization can do alone. Join with us, and LIVE UNITED in 2014!