American Dream: Women's Initiative

The American Dream program is focused on families in this community that live at or below the poverty level. In Bay County, thousands of families do not have a depth of knowledge or the resources to provide a healthy, nurturing environment for their children as they struggle to meet the everyday challenges and crisis in their lives. The American Dream will connect parents and caregivers with the resources they need to live successful lives and achieve positive results for their families and children.

This program was designed by women right here in our own Bay community. Using a concept adopted by other United Ways in the United States, we assembled a steering committee of women leaders who decided to reach beyond the typical United Way volunteer base for assistance. The goal was to engage women in more collaborative activities that address their personal interests and allows United Way to make the great possible difference.

The American Dream program was designed by the Steering Committee with the goal of offering the following benefits:

• Improve parenting skills including family budgeting, nutritional meal planning and nurturing of children.
• Increase the number of caregivers enrolled in college, vocational training and obtaining high school diplomas to further employment opportunities.
• Increase use of existing assistance agencies in Bay County.

The American Dream will be implemented and coordinated by one or more human service agencies in Bay County. A request for proposal will be developed asking agencies to create a work plan that addresses these issues. The program is being funded with the United Way campaign dollars but will not require any additional United Way staff.

The American Dream is a new way to give to the United Way of Bay County during the fall campaign. New and existing United Way contributors can designate some or their entire donation to the American Dream campaign.

To become a contributor to the American Dream, donor may use a pledge card and choose the designation option “American Dream”. A minimum donation of $250 will be invested with 60% going directly to the initiative and 40% going to the United Way partner agencies that provide a safety net of support programs for families. In addition, all or part of a leadership Pillars Club gift can be designated to the American Dream. For more information call Jennifer Carroll at 893.7508 ext. 13.