We’re doing more by offering more than 25 educational programs in our community to make sure children and youth can start school ready to succeed, become proficient readers at a young age, stay on track in middle school, earn their high school diploma on time and pursue a college degree.
The Challenge
When we launched our communitywide action plan FACE 2024, 4,000 OC students were dropping out of high school every year. Today, the outlook is improving somewhat but, even one dropout is one too many.
Dropout prevention starts at birth, at a time when children and parents are engaged and have access to the tools they need to succeed. That’s why we’re leveling the playing field by improving educational opportunities for our children at key points in their young life—helping put them on the path to academic and life success.
Orange County United Way at Work
OC Reads: Early Literacy in OC
Did you know...
Children who are not reading at grade level by 3rd grade are four times more likely to drop out before high school graduation? Learn more...
Destination Graduation
Did you know...
On average, high school graduates earn more per week than dropouts—and provide a public benefit of over $200K in lower government spending and higher tax revenues? Learn more...
YOUTH CAREER CONNECTIONS
Did you know...
Through Youth Career Connections, our work-based learning initiative, our interns are gaining invaluable working experience at leading local employers. Learn more...Success Stories
United Way’s Destination Graduation program has given me the opportunity to go on several different career-oriented field trips that have helped me define my path for the next four years in college.
