The Youth & Lifelong Learning Council
The Youth & Lifelong Learning Council is dedicated to education, both for youth and for people of any age and any challenge or disability. United Way listened to people's goals in our Community Compass strategic planning process, and clearly education is a very important priority for the people of Mid Coast Maine. We've worked on early education with Success By 6, and know that the rest of childhood and youth also offer significant opportunities to make positive, lasting changes. We recognize that learning continues throughout all of life, and that it is essential for individual people, and for our community, to reach our full potential.

• The Youth & Lifelong Learning Council is working toward six of United Way of Mid Coast Maine's Community Goals:
  
• Our community facilitates lifelong learning
• People with challenges or disabilities also have opportunities to reach their full potential
• Youth at risk have effective programs, including mentoring, to help them become responsible members of the community
• Students have maximum opportunities to succeed because their health, educational and social services needs are being met
• Everyone can read
  
• All people, especially young people, have many choices for positive activities and learning enrichment

Examples of Positive Results!

• 393 at-risk children were matched with mentors through Big Brothers/Big Sisters programs. 68% improved in one or more school subject, according to surveyed teachers. 46% were less likely to start using drugs and 53% less likely to skip a day of school, according to a national study.
• 620 people who could not otherwise afford it were able to take part in healthy YMCA activities. 70% of youth surveyed said they had a positive view of their personal future.
• 103 individuals received confidential literacy tutoring by trained volunteers, with results including entering the workforce, registering to vote, and ability to read to children or grandchildren.
• 50% of individuals receiving supported living services through Elmhurst had a decrease in crisis situations.

For more information, you can email mariaH@uwmcm.org or call 207-443-9752