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When it comes to the United Way, the Â鶹Íø has been a leading contributor in the school district category for almost 30 years. Last year, Â鶹Íø raised $13,745 – the second-largest school district campaign that the Valley of the Sun United Way runs!

Valley of the Sun United Way is working to address the immediate needs of families and individuals, focused on Health, Housing and Homelessness, Education and Workforce Development. They’re working alongside dozens of incredible nonprofit and school partners, like Â鶹Íø, to create short-term and long-term solutions for those who need it most.

By donating to VSUW, your gift helps fund:

• Tutoring and mentoring, including the Vello program
• Weekend meals and snacks for students
• Access to affordable quality childcare and early education
• Quality after-school and out-of-school time programs so that parents can work
• At-home learning materials, programs and tutoring to help kids read at grade level
• Initiatives to guide high school students to graduation, college and career
• Food delivery for seniors
• Emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness
• Support services for individuals living in permanent supportive housing
• Emergency rent, utilities and other financial assistance
• And so much more!

These are all areas that impact our Â鶹Íø families and their neighbors, many of whom need this support now more than ever. Together, we can improve the lives of those around us.

If you want your dollars to directly benefit the Â鶹Íø, consider giving to the Washington Education Foundation (WEF). Last year, the Foundation received $7,000 thanks to United Way contributions. That money was used for teacher mini-grants of up to $500 and to support the Helping Hands program, which provides Â鶹Íø employees with utility assistance.

If you choose to give, you’ll see you have two options – payroll deduction or credit card. If you choose payroll deduction, the minimum contribution is $2/pay period. Additionally, it’s important to select the correct number of pay periods – only employees who are on the 12-month calendar select 26 pay periods, everyone else should select 19 pay periods, this includes principals and assistant principals.

If you’re currently contributing to United Way, this is your opportunity to “re-up.” Payroll deductions occur during the calendar year -  January – December. Payroll deductions made during this campaign cycle will begin January 2025.

The campaign ends Friday, December 13. Please let me know if you need assistance with completing your electronic form or if you have questions about United Way.

Thank you for your support!