COMMUNITY SCHOOL LEARNING EXCHANGE

Higher Education, Community Schools, and the Work of Generational Change. That was the message Dr. Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University, shared during last week’s United Way Briefing. It set the tone for a deeper conversation about what it really means to invest in our community.

On Thursday, March 26, students from nine United Way Community Schools came together for an evening of problem solving, quick thinking, and high energy as they competed in Challenge 24.

For Sam, a student at Harding Elementary, becoming a leader at school was always something they hoped for & that opportunity came to life through the Harding Student Ambassador program.

Learn how Marquis Wallace, owner of Anansi Collaborations, is bringing creativity and confidence to students at United Way Community Schools!

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re proud to highlight one of our dedicated Women United members, Beth Hirz, Erie County’s District Attorney. Beth has been a longtime advocate and supporter of United Way’s work in our community. We recently sat down with her to learn more about why she believes in our work and what inspires her continued support.

Every year, Wegmans goes above and beyond to support our organization, from volunteering to donating, to running a successful workplace campaign, they’ve been incredibly supportive of our work with United Way Community Schools. 

When you think of after-school clubs, you might picture STEM, theater, or National Honor Society. But at Erie High, one club is gaining recognition for something bigger with real impact. 

Every month, the Erie School Board receives a snapshot of how the Community School Model is transforming classrooms and communities across the district. Now, we’re sharing that same insider look with you. This report highlights tangible results, including programs launched, partnerships formed, and progress being made for Erie students and families.

When families face challenges like housing instability, mental health concerns, transportation issues, or unexpected crises, access to the right supports can make all the difference.

Black History Month is about connecting stories to students.' It’s about helping them see themselves reflected in history, and reminding them that their goals and ideas matter.

You might assume a Math Family Engagement Night starts as an idea from school administrators, but at McKinley and Union City Elementary, that wasn’t the case.

211 Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the value of the PA 211 Helpline and how it supports our community. Learn how United Way of Erie County supports this initiative.

At United Way of Erie County Community Schools, some of the most important work happens in moments of crisis, when students and families need immediate support to stay safe, stable, and connected to school.

In partnership with Operation Warm, Edison Elementary, a United Way Community School, teamed up with New Motors Subaru to provide warm coats and shoes to more than 100 students this winter. The initiative was made possible through the generosity of New Motors Subaru and the time and care of their volunteer team.

Widget became a Corporate Partner in 2018, and while their financial support at Iroquois is vital, what truly sets them apart is their hands-on involvement. Widget team members regularly donate their time across United Way Community Schools—volunteering, leading programs, and supporting special projects, including at Elk Valley Elementary. Their commitment reflects what it truly means to give back by investing both resources and people.

McKinley Elementary recently hosted its first-ever Math Mania Family Game Night, and the turnout exceeded all expectations. With 102 participants in attendance, the evening proved that academic-focused events can be just as engaging and just as well attended as any other school celebration.

After 15 years of dedicated service to United Way of Erie County, Mike Jaruszewicz has officially stepped into the role of President, following the retirement of longtime leader Laurie Root.