United Way expands early education program

United Way's Early Learning Communities (ELC) have already improved the care that 1,000 caregivers provide for approximately 4,000 children through the program's series of workshops and events. Now, with the help of the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC), that number will skyrocket.

In late 2009, the ECIC awarded United Way a $2.8 million grant to serve as one of 10 Great Start Regional Resource Centers across the state. The Resource Centers are charged with unifying the state's fragmented network of child care by creating additional training opportunities and greater cooperation. The Resource Centers also offer a new online child care database that connects parents with quality child care in their community. To access the database, go to www.greatstartforkids.org and click on "Connect".

To improve the childcare network in our region, United Way will be expanding the Early Learning Communities over the next few months. There are currently ELCs in Southwest Detroit, Brightmoor (on Detroit's west side), Osborn (on Detroit's east side), Hazel Park, Inkster and Warren. The expansion will allow us to launch ELCs in communities across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties with the goal of training an additional 2,000 caregivers and impacting 8,000 children over the next year.

The Early Learning Communities provide free training and resources to parents and caregivers who care for children ages 0-5. We know that this population has the most influence on children in the formative years of life, yet many informal caregivers -- like family members, friends and neighbors -- lack the knowledge to provide proper developmental support so that children enter Kindergarten prepared. Without that support, children fall behind before they start.

While United Way will bring additional ELC locations on board, we've also forged partnerships to enhance the ELC programming. Our 2-1-1 On the Go! program will support the Brightmoor community through a three-year grant from the Fisher Foundation. This program provides for mobile 2-1-1 support to reach individuals where they are. The grant will allow 2-1-1 to embed an information and referral associate in Brightmoor. The staff member will connect parents and caregivers to resources that help them meet their basic needs so that they can focus on providing proper child care and early education opportunities to the children in their care.

Panera Bread is also working with the ELCs to host monthly Family Fun Days. On the second Saturday of each month, a local Panera Bread will offer free activities for children in partnership with their local ELC. The next Family Fun Day is scheduled for March 13 at the Panera Bread located on Eureka Rd., in Southgate. To view a list of all upcoming Family Fun Days, click here.

We're excited about the expansion of the ELCs and all of the additional opportunities we're able to offer participants thanks to our community partnerships. To learn more about the ELCs, log on to www.unitedwaysem.org/elc.

Cheer on the Pistons while supporting United Way

Support United Way's High School Turnaround Program with a night at the Palace of Auburn Hills on March 31.

Bring your friends and family and watch the Detroit Pistons take on the Miami Heat. Tickets are $20 and half of the ticket price will help United Way purchase classroom resources for its turnaround schools.

To purchase tickets:
1. Log on to Ticketmaster here.
2. Click on "Find Tickets".
3. Enter PISTONS as your Special Offer Code. (Do not enter your e-mail on this page)
4. On the next page, enter your e-mail address to create an account.
5. Create an account and follow the prompts to select your seats.
6. Print your tickets.

If you need assistance, contact Raquel Gumma at 248-377-0105. See you at the game!

In the news

United Way's work, as featured in news articles and blogs.

Yes He Can: One Can A Week program inspires imitators. The Huffington Post. Article about an Arizona man's One Can A Week program, and the national movement it's inspiring, including an adaptation by United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

Kids loved kickoff of free family fun days. Oakland County Moms Blog. Article discussed the first Panera Family Fun Day in conjunction with United Way's ELC. Join us for the next event on March 13 at the Panera on Eureka Rd. in Southgate.