Cameron Johnson
United Way Project Coordinator

A lesser known perk of United Way of Mower County’s continued campaign success is the ability to set aside funds for one time investments that align with our mission of building a stronger community through advancement in the areas of education, income, health and basic needs. In 2014, for instance, United Way of Mower County’s annual campaign brought in over $1.1 million dollars and, of which, less than 5 percent was designated for projects of this nature.

It’s a small but meaningful number for those organizations that tap into it. This year we’ve had the opportunity to partner with Austin Public Schools’ Community Learning Center and Woodson Kindergarten Center as well as Sacred Heart School in Adams on some of these projects.

The Community Learning Center was granted funding for Packers in Training — three weeks of programming during the summer for students entering kindergarten that have not had any early childhood education to prepare them. These children generally enter kindergarten behind their peers academically, socially, and emotionally putting them at risk for failure in kindergarten and beyond. Packers in Training works to minimize that deficiency. Along with academic programming, transportation, breakfast and lunch are also provided to the families of participating students at no cost.

Woodson Kindergarten Center was given funds to enhance both of their Play Center rooms the purpose of which is to encourage education, imagination, social interaction, and cooperative play. The funds will be used to purchase replacements for items that have seen too much wear and tear as well as additional materials, furnishings, and educational toys. And our collaboration with the Sacred Heart School in Adams is important to point out as a reminder that United Way of Mower County serves Mower County — not just Austin. The Sacred Heart School received funding for their Gifted & Talented Program as well as their growing Robotics Program.

United Way is always open to partnering with community organizations in this capacity. Two successful programs that we funded last year include the Science Fair Mentoring Project and Northstar Digital Library — computer literacy classes hosted at the jail, Workforce Development Center, and the library. Keep in mind that all funding decisions of this nature require board approval. That being said, if you have a request that aligns with our mission please reach out to our offices at 507-437-2313 for further discussion.