Youth Opportunity

At United Way of Central Illinois, we want all kids to soar. We work with the people who care for them, from families and neighbors, to schools and community agencies, to connect young people with the support they need. This is why we focus on youth opportunity.

We're helping young people realize their potential from cradle to career.

Grant Partners

2023-2026 Investments

Mentor 2.0, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois

Project Learn, Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Illinois

Career Launch, Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Illinois

Camp Compass, Compass for Kids, Inc.

Club Compass, Compass for Kids, Inc.

Girl Scout Leadership Experience Outreach, Girl Scouts of Central Illinois, Inc.

The Autism Clinic, Hope

Camp Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go!, Springfield Public Schools

Freedom School, Springfield Urban League, Inc.

Dolly Parton Imagination Library, United Way of Central Illinois

View complete list and investments here.

Childcare and Early Learning

The early ears of a child's life are crucial in building the foundation for future success in school, work, and life. That's why United Way of Central Illinois prioritizes early learning. By supporting childcare providers, teachers, and families, we help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. By strengthening our partnerships across the community, we're working together to improve both the quality and accessibility of childcare for all families.

Afterschool and Summer Learning

Students do better in school, and in life, when they have support beyond the classroom. Extra help through afterschool programs, tutoring, and summer activities not only boosts academic success and graduation rates, but also supports physical and emotional well-being. Unfortunately many families face barriers to accessing these resources. That's why United Way of Central Illinois partners with schools, families, and local organizations to bridge those gaps. From kindergarten readiness programs to after school programming and mentorship, and more, we're building stronger support systems for all students in our community.

Literacy Development

Reading is the foundation for learning.

By fourth grade, kids should be reading to learn, not still learning to read. If they fall behind, it can be hard to catch up. That's why United Way of Central Illinois is taking action. We're helping families get more books at home, through our partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which mails free books each month to children under age 5. We're also partnering with mentorship programs and summer learning camps to give students extra support and help them build strong reading skills.

Kami's story