Back to School

The beginning of each school year holds new promise-new teachers, new classes and a fresh start. United Way and its partner agencies have been gearing up all summer to prepare for ways to engage children, youth and their parents during the school year. Below are just a few examples of our programs and initiatives. You'll also find activities and ways that you can help children and youth get ready for school and continue to support them throughout the year.

Connecting Schools and AfterSchool Programs

School staff and out-of-school program staff are two of a child’s most influential resources beyond their parents. United Way’s Connecting Schools and Afterschools Initiative aims to improve outcomes for children and youth by fostering relationships among schools and afterschool programs. The Massachusetts After-School Research Study (MARS) found that students demonstrate better outcomes when strong connections exist between schools and afterschool programs. Youth fare better in school because of more engaging, challenging activities, higher staff engagement, and higher quality homework assistance after school. To learn more about our Connecting Schools and Afterschools Initiative, click here.

Back-to-School Resources for Parents and Youth

Need some homework help? Thinking about getting your GED? United Way can connect you to resources that will help you or your child navigate the challenges and opportunities that can come with school. We can connect you with afterschool programs, give you tips for how to set up a good study space and point you in the right direction for any question that arises. For more, click here.

Get Involved

There are a number of ways that you can help children and youth prepare for the start of a new school year. Have some extra school supplies you can donate? Can your company give some time to mentor youth? Give students the support they need to succeed in academics and in life: Learn how.