Youth United Way is an initiative of United Way of the Mid-South which works to help today's teenagers learn that responsibility and giving back to our community are important parts of setting the groundwork for a positive future. Youth United Way Mid-South promotes philanthropy, leadership development and character building among local school students. Middle and high school youth form a board and three committees that coordinate fundraising events, the fund distribution process and community service activities. Youth United Way Mid-South's board chair also serves as a member of our United Way's board of directors.
Over 200 junior high and high school students from across the Memphis area participate in Youth United Way. These determined and upbeat junior high and high school students work together on projects that improve people's quality of life. They take on a variety of tasks to raise money to help nonprofit programs focused on youth-centered issues.
Four students traveled to Seattle (thanks to a generous underwriting from United Way's friends at FedEx) to participate in a national forum on youth community building. Youth United Way was selected to share accomplishments with other organizations which impact the lives of teens. This marks the seventh year that the Youth United Way program has been asked to speak at national conferences.
Youth United Way students understand that the best way to improve our community is to get involved. Over the past year, this group of service-minded youth was crucial to the success of numerous programs that make a difference in the lives of thousands of people across the Mid-South.
At the end of each year, the Youth United Way teens coordinate an annual banquet where they celebrate their accomplishments, recognize graduating seniors from high school, and salute their peers who have secured college scholarships. With so much media attention placed on teenagers who get into trouble and ruin lives, it is good to know that this group of students is leading the way for positive change. With your continued support, United Way creates initiatives and programs which make such a vital difference to the life of our community.
Also: Youth Special Projects Grant Application
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