United Way of Olmsted County is committed to creating opportunities for a better life for all in Olmsted County by addressing the circumstances that destabilize communities. Our goals focus on education, income and health; the building blocks for a good quality of life. Education: 85% of children enrolled in United Way funded school readiness programs achieved the developmental skills necessary to succeed in school, only 52% are ready without the programs. Studies show that out-of-school time directly affects youth behavior and academic success; 2,210 low income youth were connected to high-quality, enriched learning programs. Over 6,000 preschool children receive a book a month through Imagination Library. Health: When people are in good health, the benefits ripple across our community. United Way ensured 2,344 low-income children received preventative dental care, 3,313 residents accessed basic health care, 2,473 uninsured people received intervention for mental health crisis, and 3,600 people connected to health insurance. Income: Jobs skills training moved 60 people into sustainable employment and additionally 97 gained financial literacy skills, 76 homeless families stabilized, $1.4 million returned to the local economy through EITC refunds. Community Basics: A safety net is necessary for every community, we sink or swim together. United Way stabilizes families in crisis by supporting these basic needs: 146,884 meals, 2,408 children received school supplies, 2,565 winter coats, 712 safe children, 1,395 basic legal representations, 403 people with disabilities accessed employment, 286 people received shelter and 3,788 people able to access public benefits which stabilized their lives and our community.

1. Education <p> Outcome: Children prepared to succeed in school<p> Indicator: 75% children proficient in Kindergarten assessments*<p> Outcome: Youth prepared to succeed in community<p> Indicator: [under review for 2012]<p> 2. Income (Financial Stability)<p> Outcome: People move toward financial independence<p> Indicators: a) 400 people below 280% poverty complete job skills training/gain employment b) 65 families achieve stabilization with housing, employment or education* c) People gain financial literacy** 3. Health <p> Outcome: People health improves<p> Indicators: a) 3,520 under/uninsured children receive preventive dental care/education.* b) 3,700 uninsured residents access basic health care* c) Uninsured/low-income people receive interventions for mental illness** d) People obtain/ retain health insurance.**<p> 4. Community Basics<p> Outcome: People’s basic need of food, shelter, safety, inclusivity addressed<p> Indicators: a) Vulnerable residents access 172,500 nutritious meals.** b) 1,260 children /youth safe interactions with caregivers.** c) 890 low-income residents access basic legal representation/education.** d) 1,715 vulnerable seniors 150% poverty remain home through case management/services with volunteer networks.** e) 1,068 Olmsted County residents w/disabilities experience increased independence/ integration through employment/ life skills** f) 315 homeless access to immediate, short-term shelter.** g) People in safety net access additional public benefits.**<p> * = 2015 goal | ** = annual goal

United Way of Olmsted County serves people in need in 4 focus areas: Basic needs of food, shelter, safety and inclusivity: connecting low income people to health care access; supporting the learning and development of children and youth; increasing financial stability of low income families.

Olmsted County