Dear friends and community members,

United Way of San Juan County has become a very important safety net for the island families and children. Their goal is to fund programs that build healthy and resilient children and families, ensure a healthy living environment with adequate food and shelter, promote safety, prevent violence and abuse, and create systems that increase physical and mental well-being of our communities. Each year the Orcas Island Readiness to Learn Program receives a significant and vital grant from United Way, which funds a portion of the Orcas elementary school’s Readiness to Learn Family Support Specialist.

Last year the Orcas elementary program, through the loving and expert guidance of Sandi Burt, supported 42 elementary children and 33 parents through an array of services: counseling, advocacy, parent education and support, and access to financial resources, medical insurance, food, transportation, tutoring, and after school activities. In addition, over 50 elementary students participated in small groups facilitated by Ms. Burt that focused on promoting social and friendship skills, impulse control, competition, assertiveness, and groups addressing separation, divorce and stepfamily issues.

Your donations to United Way of San Juan County play a critical role in funding vital programs such as the Orcas Island Readiness to Learn Program. You may request that your donation be applied to a specific organization, or trust in United Way’s thorough grant process and careful distribution of their funds. Thank you in advance for your generous support of our island county’s safety net.

Sincerely,

Moriah Armstrong

Eastsound