Leaders Driven to Make a Difference
Do you want to make a difference?! Then start here.
If you’re a passionate professional under 40 who is interested in volunteerism, advocacy or philanthropy, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) Emerging Leaders is the group for you.
Our Goal
As part of the Raise Me to Read initiative, we aim to help kids read on grade-level by providing them with books they love.
Our Annual Impact
members
donated back to the community
volunteer hours
Why Engage?
When you identify as an Emerging Leader and make a gift of $250 or more to UWM, you'll...Stay Informed
Learn about the issues that confront kids in our metro area and how you can help
Get Connected
Join a network of change-makers who share your goals and successes
Make an Impact
Give back to the community by participating in fundraising and volunteer opportunities that make a big difference in kids’ lives
Gain Access
Receive invites to professional development training opportunities and special events
The Importance of Raise Me to Read
Reading proficiency by the end of third grade is one of the most important predictors of high school graduation and career success.
To help more low-income children reach this important reading milestone, United Way of the Midlands supports Raise Me to Read.
This campaign focuses on three key areas that impact grade-level reading:
- Preparing kids from birth to age five for school,
- Encouraging students to attend school every day
- Fostering learning during the summer months
Currently, 45% of children in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro aren’t reading proficiently by the end of third grade. And because children have spent less time in the classroom since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, even more children are at risk of falling behind.
By focusing on school readiness, school attendance and summer learning, the Raise Me to Read campaign will help many more children from low-income families succeed in school and graduate feeling prepared for college and their careers.
Join the Action
Help kids develop a love for reading by participating in our events throughout the year.
“Tee Up To Read” Golf Tournament
This tournament brings golf-lovers together for a good cause. Registration now open!
Raise Me To Read Fundraisers
Every year we find fun ways to raise money to support grade-level reading and engage our community around local literacy efforts.
Volunteer Opportunities
Members bring smiles to kids’ faces by engaging in a variety of volunteer opportunities that help kids grow as readers!
UWM Signature Volunteer Opportunities
Join us as we participate in UWM’s community-wide signature volunteer events, Day of Action and Day of Caring.
How to Get Involved
For more information or to express interest in getting involved, please contact emergingleaders@uwmidlands.org.
Does your company run a United Way campaign?
You can donate $250 and check the Emerging Leaders box when you fill out the electronic or paper pledge form to join us! To support the Emerging Leaders’ initiative, you can also choose to designate your funds to Raise Me to Read in the “Direct Your Dollars” portion of our donation forms.
Follow us on social to see what we’ve been up to in the community!
United Way of the Midlands | 2201 Farnam Street | Omaha, NE 68102 | 402-342-8232
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