Five years of Making Connections

In 2002, United Way of King County and others partnered with the Annie E. Casey Foundation to work with residents of White Center to strengthen families and help children grow up healthier and more successful. Key to this strategy was engaging and empowering the community to create positive social change through partnerships with government and corporate institutions. Five years into this innovative 10-year effort, Making Connections is making remarkable progress.

• 522 residents have obtained jobs.
• 3,000 low-income families have taken advantage of United Way's Free Tax Preparation Campaign, bringing more than $4 million back into this specific community.
• 350 preschool students received early learning experiences through programs such as play and learn and ESL classes, so that they are better prepared for success in school.
• Plans are underway with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to build a major child development facility that will serve all low-income children and families in the White Center community.

The program has also made great strides in empowering local residents to assume leadership roles in the community. Several local residents from the ethnic minority community have been elected to the Unincorporated Area Council, and one has been elected to the local school board.

United Way of King County is ensuring that all children are ready for success in school and life. Learn more about our work around early learning.

Back to Top

United Way of King County has strict privacy practices. If you have questions, please review the United Way of King County Privacy Policy or e-mail webmaster@uwkc.org.

Missed a story find it here

Unsubscribe | Subscribe