Middlesex United Way makes contributions to East Haddam and East Hampton

The Middlesex United Way Board of Directors recently approved funding to support 49 programs in Middlesex County, as well as the installation of multiple “Born Learning Trails” on Day of Caring on September 7, two future requests-for-proposal in Education and Housing, and $30,000 for new opportunities this fall that will help United Way reach its “Five-Year Goals for the Common Good.”

The total amount of giving for fiscal 2011-2012 is $964,304, which is $45,000 more than was allocated in 2010-2011.

Among the 49 programs earmarked for this year is East Haddam Youth & Family Services, which receives $15,000 and the East Hampton Board of Education, which receives $8,550.

One of United Way’s partners in the School Readiness initiative is East Haddam Youth & Family Services.

Cindy Praisner, Early Childhood Coordinator, touched upon the impact of United Way’s support saying, “One of the wonderful things we have been able to provide in East Haddam is a Family Resource Center… we had many programs, including a school-readiness playgroup.”

She recalled, “A mom from this group (told me), ‘I have nothing but wonderful things to say of Miss Joy’s preschool hour. I would never consider it just a playgroup, because it was so much more. With my husband losing his job this year, there was no way we could afford to send Alex to preschool, as we had the year before. No matter how much you work with your child at home, there is such a difference actually being in a preschool setting with other children. Alex learned a lot this year and really enjoyed himself, as did I.’”

The breakdown of Middlesex United Way fund distributions by focus area in 2011-2012 looks like this:

• $148,156 for education;

• $141,350 for income;

• $498,080 for health;

• $130,433 for housing.

For a complete list of distributions, you can visit http://www.middlesexunitedway.org/distributions

United Way also allocated $16,285 to “211” which is a 24-hour information and referral helpline available at no charge to anyone in Connecticut. “211” is a partnership between the Connecticut United Ways and the State of Connecticut.

Leading the program review and fund distribution each year are Community Impact volunteers who bring experience and expertise in health and human services.

Four volunteer teams, based on the four focus areas, meet regularly throughout the year, evaluate program performance and financial health, and analyze program results.

United Way’s Community Impact Council then makes funding recommendations to the full board of directors for final approval.

Middlesex United Way Executive Director Kevin Wilhelm notes, “This hard work is done by dedicated individuals who volunteer their time to make important decisions. They have a passion for giving back and strengthening our community.”

If you are interested in becoming a Community Impact volunteer or would like to volunteer on Day of Caring on September 7, please contact Middlesex United Way at (860) 346-8695 or visit www.middlesexunitedway.org and click on ‘Volunteer.’

Middlesex United Way advances the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all.

Our focus is on education, income, health and housing – the building blocks for a good quality of life.

United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done.

You are invited to be part of the change by donating, advocating and/or volunteering.

Middlesex United Way serves the towns of Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

Posted July 20, 2011

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