Did you know that among 11th graders in Allegheny County, more than 30 percent can’t read at required levels and more than 40 percent can’t do math properly? Moreover, 50 percent of African American males in our city schools drop out before graduation. Thousands more of our children are not engaged in school and simply choose not to attend class or apply themselves in school.

Our local rate of idle youth (neither in school nor working) ages 15-24 has increased sharply in distressed areas. Think for a moment about the trouble that is caused when young people are
neither in school nor working.

Idle youth and youth not succeeding in school impacts us all. Most of all, these youth are more
likely to get in trouble with drugs, crime and sexual promiscuity. Their lack of education dramatically reduces their chances of earning a decent living and being able to support a family. We are focused on providing hope for those youth who seem to have bleak futures, and hope to nurture individuals who can contribute to rather than detract from our local economy.

As a whole, our community has some choices. We can walk away, throw up our hands in despair or address the problem in an intelligent and effective way. If we do nothing, we can expect the rates of failing students in our schools to increase and to have a detrimental effect on our businesses and our streets.

The United Way of Allegheny County is choosing to take action. We are taking a leadership role in educating our community – and our 60,000 donors – about the magnitude and seriousness of this issue. We are convening community partners and leaders to join with us in developing action plans. We are supporting programs that motivate kids to succeed in school.

How will we help motivate kids to succeed in school? There are no easy answers. But, the
United Way’s Motivating Kids to Succeed in School Initiative blends four strategies to motivate
kids – at any age. By convening the best minds and experts in our community, this initiative will
support stellar organizations, successful programs and innovative approaches that produce
results using the following comprehensive strategies:

Early Childhood Development
Promoting high quality early learning experiences that use research-based programs to provide all children with a vibrant start in life.

After-School Programs
Keeping kids engaged and motivated to learn through quality after-school curricula and  activities that help them succeed in school and life.

Tutoring and Mentoring Programs
Connecting our children with the best teachers and caring volunteers who provide educational
assistance, career direction and personal guidance.

School to Work Programs
Engaging kids in career awareness, having hopes and dreams, planning for their futures and
recognizing the value of school to realize their dreams.

We know what works and what will make a difference in the lives of local youth!

Make the choice. Get involved. Volunteer your time. Give what you can afford. Your contribution, no matter the size, truly matters. Support United Way’s efforts to create lasting change for our youth. The fundamental well-being of our children and our communities is at stake. And you can make a difference. The choice is yours.

For further information contact Joe Welsh, United Way of Allegheny County, at 412-456-6740 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

* 2006/2007 University of Pittsburgh study, commissioned by United Way of Allegheny County. View the entire report at www.unitedwaypittsburgh.org.