News from United Way of SLO County

United Way of San Luis Obispo County

Youth Board Awards 3 $1,000 Grants

The United Way of San Luis Obispo County Youth Board has awarded three $1,000 grants to local youth projects and programs. The grants were awarded to:

Melinda Marchiano, for her Literacy and Advocacy Youth Challenge, inspiring peers through her book, "Grace: A Child's Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery."
Atascadero High School Robotics Team, to help design and build a robot to participate in FIRST Robotics competitions.
Chalk Mountain Garden Group, a gardening club from Successful Launch at Cuesta College, who have turned their service into work experience while generating income for youth involved.

Groups created projects that have a positive impact on youth (up to age 19), and incorporated the 40 Developmental Assets and other youth development principles. Applications were peer reviewed by members of the 2010-2011 Youth Board. This group of high school students seeks to increase philanthropy and leadership in San Luis Obispo County youth, and improve programs to better serve our community.

Flavor of SLO

Guests at Flavor of SLO

Save the Date for the 3rd Annual Flavor of SLO! Our team of Cal Poly student coordinators have been actively planning this year's event at the Historic Jack House and Gardens. Join us on Sunday, May 15th from 1:00-4:00 PM. Visit www.FlavorOfSLO.com to see photos from last year's fun event!

Volunteers Needed

Grant Readers

Are you interested in health and human services? Would you like to learn more about local nonprofits and community needs? Are you able to fairly and objectively represent donors, consumers and the general community?

If so, then consider learning more about the Community Impact Fund grant process! Every year United Way has the opportunity to award grants to nonprofits throughout SLO County, and volunteers play a crucial role by reading and reviewing proposals. Learn more by viewing the volunteer job description here.

Money Talks Instructors Money Talks 4 Teens is a program created by the University of California Cooperative Extension, uses interactive lessons and a hands-on approach to demonstrate the importance of making wise financial choices. Volunteers are needed to help teach local high school students the role that good money management plays in achieving personal goals, and help them develop planning, goal setting and thoughtful decision-making skills. New volunteers are trained by shadowing experienced volunteers, and then work in pairs to teach the five-week sessions.

To get involved, contact Kara Edwall at (805) 541-1234 or kedwall@unitedwayslo.org.

United Way Worldwide Policy Agenda for the 112th Congress

United Way knows that real and sustained change in community conditions requires more than money. That's why the United Way Worldwide (UWW) Public Policy staff works to educate and engage members of Congress, the Administration, and other policymakers about the goals and priorities of the United Way movement and our commitment to education, income, health and nonprofit sector strengthening issues. While United Ways of California staff continues to monitor the state budget process, the UWW Public Policy team is closely watching the debates in D.C. United Way Worldwide has released policy recommendations essential to advancing the common good in the areas of education, income and health. Click here to read the policy agenda.