If you would have met Kayla as a 6th grader, you’d likely agree she was a highly difficult kid. She was angry all the time, constantly defying teachers and nearly impossible to keep on-task with school work. But what you may not have know is what she was dealing with at home

Key leaders in business, philanthropy, education and government announced today the Indianapolis business community has successfully reached its goal of raising $10 million for the city’s pre-k program.

Ann Murtlow, President and CEO of United Way of Central Indiana (UWCI), and Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide (UWW), announced today a $5 million gift from longtime United Way supporters, Sarah and John Lechleiter. Matched by the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, the total gift of $10 million will be directed toward United Way’s impact work.

The Cub Scouts from Pack 16 are like every other scout; they love to be with their friends, explore and learn new things. But they might not be what you expect when you envision the typical Boy Scout.

United Way of Central Indiana was recently awarded a $90,000 grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. This grant will be used to pilot an enhanced version of the ReadUP Readers program in 10 preschool classrooms.

“Xavier” grew up in a broken home. His childhood was hard and it left him a very reserved, insecure and irresponsible 12-year-old. His mother noticed the path her son was going down, and she knew she needed to do something for him.

An energetic group of volunteers met at the offices of Katz, Sapper and Miller to assemble Literacy Kits for On My Way Pre-K programs. This was accomplished in about an hour from 8 – 9 am thanks to the efficiency of our great women volunteers!

When “Deron” first met “Skyler” on their first day of United Way’s summer ReadUP program, he knew he had a challenge in front of him. After weeks of Deron’s effort and proven, effective ReadUP programming, Skyler began to make real progress.

United Way of Central Indiana and Hubbard Family Foundation present $25,000 each to four teachers and two principals!

United Way of Central Indiana and Hubbard Family Foundation to present $25,000 each to six winners – four teachers and two principals – on May 18!

Finding the right child care center is a big decision for parents. Of course, you want to know your child will be safe, first and foremost. Luckily, because of United Way and you, parents have a high-quality, affordable option at Early Learning Indiana. Just ask Carrie and Keith Hagan…

United Way of Central Indiana and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation are joining forces to help improve health, reduce obesity, and encourage wellness in young children through two grant programs.

Briana's parents hoped to be able to provide a great life for their kids, but that meant working long hours and sometimes working more than one job – and leaving the children home alone. They needed a safe place to grow and create meaningful memories, but with their tight budget, she wondered if she was dreaming too big.

CICVC members from different corporations will spend their afternoon reading to students at Key Learning Community. This service project will bring together nearly ninety kindergarten through second grade students for a reading session with favorite Dr. Seuss books, and celebrating his birthday with a classroom party.

Jeffrey Hunt always had his guard up. But who could blame him? Growing up in a rough neighborhood, he had already seen more than most. The Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis provided him a support system he could trust and rely on.

Witness what’s possible when educators are empowered to use innovation and partnerships to help students who face daunting poverty and trauma.