At United Way, we are committed to changing the FACE of our community over the next 10 years. By 2024, through improving access to educational resources, we will cut the high school dropout rate in half. Improving community conditions in the area of Education starts early—and one of the ways to ensure the next generation can thrive is to promote early grade literacy during a child’s critical developmental years. Our children’s future and the future of our community is in your caring hands. Studies have found that children who do not read proficiently by the end of third grade (next year’s third graders are the class of 2024) are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma than proficient readers. Additionally, children who are read aloud to and have access to books are much more likely to read proficiently by the end of third grade. That’s why we invite you to take part in our exciting Education endeavors.