What does the Community School Model actually look like in action?
On October 13, United Way of Erie County will bring together partners, educators, supporters and community members for Assembly 2026: Community Schools in Action at the Bayfront Convention Center.
The Assembly is designed to give our community a closer look at the work happening every day inside United Way Community Schools and, more importantly, the partnerships that make that work possible.
Because the Community School Model isn't the work of just one organization. It brings schools, businesses, nonprofits, volunteers and community partners together to support students and families. At the center of that work are Community School Directors, who build relationships and help connect families with the resources and opportunities they need.
"The relationship between a family and a Community School Director is at the heart of the Community School Model. When trust is built with a parent, doors to opportunities can open in powerful and life-changing ways.
That trust allows every United Way Community School Director to understand the challenges a family may face and work alongside them to remove the non-academic barriers that stand in the way of a student’s success.
This is what it truly means to meet families where they are and help every child reach their full potential. And that is what you will experience at the Assembly 2026!" - Julie Chacona, Executive VP
Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to experience different pieces of the model firsthand, hear the stories behind the work and meet some of the partners helping bring resources and opportunities directly into schools.
The evening will also recognize Dana and Pete Zaphiris of Great Lakes Insurance Service Group LLC as United Way of Erie County's 2026 Tocqueville Award honorees. The Tocqueville Award recognizes individuals whose generosity and commitment to our community reflect the spirit of philanthropy and service.
Those who attended our 2024 Assembly may remember that this isn't your typical sit-down event. This year's Assembly will once again be interactive, while also introducing a new way to tell the Community Schools story through a featured short film produced by Menajerie Studios.
Whether you're already familiar with United Way Community Schools or want to better understand how the Model works, the Assembly is an opportunity to see what happens when an entire community comes together around its schools.