True or false: 2018 has been a cluster.

On most days we’d say that’s true. Which is why we’re excited for the midterm elections and the ability to DO SOMETHING about several important issues. One of these important issues is Prop 1.

United Way of King County endorses Prop 1: Families, Education, Preschool & Promise Levy. If you’re voting in the City of Seattle we encourage you to vote YES on Prop 1 and here are three reasons why:

1. The goals of this levy cannot be argued against. They are for all of Seattle’s children to:
   • Enter kindergarten prepared to succeed.
   • Achieve academically and the achievement gap will be reduced.
   • Graduate from high school prepared for college or career.

These goals happen to align EXACTLY with our goals. We’re on the same page and recognize that this is one of the most important issues in our community today that will impact tomorrow.

2. Strong starts are VITAL.

Three out of four low-income kids in Washington are behind their peers when they start kindergarten. And if you start kindergarten behind, how will you ever catch up?

We believe in the power of the Parent-Child Home Program because it gives parents, like Deborah, along with their children, the tools they need to get up to speed before kindergarten.

Prop 1 will provide support for preschool and early learning programs so that all kids can start school prepared—not just those who have access to a high-quality preschool.

3. Everyone wins when students graduate and have quality career options.

Civic Enterprises estimates that the future lifetime taxpayer burden is $258,000 for each 16-year-old youth who is out of school or work. In King County there are 14,000 young people between the ages of 16 and 24 with no high school credential and no viable job prospects. We’ve created dedicated programming to get these youth reconnected and their education back on track.

Prop 1 will fund high-quality “college and job readiness experiences that promote high school graduation,” decreasing the opportunity gap, giving disconnected youth a chance at the futures they deserve and reducing the long-term tax burden for Seattleites.

Don’t delay. Drop off your ballot at one of the drop boxes, or send it in the mail (no stamp needed!). The deadline is Nov. 6. If you want, you can even download an “I Voted” sticker.

Don’t miss your chance to change what 2019 looks like for all of us.