Brandon
Did you know children who spend just one hour a week with a mentor are less likely to skip school, skip class or turn to drugs or alcohol?
United Way of St. Joseph County believes in the importance of a whole-community solution, and that means supporting the community at every level, starting with youth. By funding 15 programs that attend to the youth in the community, United Way partners are able to focus less on funding and more on the work that matters most to them: serving the vulnerable and marginalized in the community.
The Boys & Girls Clubs are just one United Way partner serving youth in St. Joseph County. Brandon is 11 years old and has been going to the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County since he was in kindergarten.
“When I first started coming here, I was really shy and didn’t want to talk to other kids, but the Boys & Girls Club staff helped me break out of my shell. I was always nervous to try new things, but they always believed in me. It really helped boost my confidence and after a while, they started to depend on me to be a leader. Because of my growing confidence, I can talk in front of strangers, be vocal during sports and make friends wherever I go.”
Sometimes all it takes is a safe space and someone to listen for children to realize their full potential, and that makes the community's future brighter, too. United Way of St. Joseph County is working hard to enhance children's lives. Will you join the fight by making a donation to United Way?
Notre Dame employees may participate through Dec. 31. DONATE NOW.