Success in life begins with a quality education. And yet, millions of children and youth lack the support they need to strengthen their literacy, stay on track in school, graduate high school and find a career.

With your support, we’re fighting to shift the odds so tomorrow’s leaders can build a better foundation today. With an approach to education that spans from cradle to career, we’re ensuring every child gets a strong start in life, teenagers have the tools to learn and grow, and young adults thrive in the job market.

United Way Born Learning Academies

All children are born learning. In the first few years of life, a child’s brain is formed by experiences and environments. This lays the foundation for learning. As a child’s first and best teacher, parents provide the interaction and nurturing relationships young children need to learn. United Way Born Learning Academies partner with families to make the most of learning in the early years.

In Kentucky, half of children do not arrive at kindergarten ready to learn. Through United Way Born Learning Academies, families can take an active role in getting their child ready for kindergarten starting from birth. The program offers practical ideas to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities. Through a series of six free workshops, parents, families and caregivers learn about child development and how to spark learning opportunities during ordinary routines like bath times and grocery trips. Workshops are open to all families with children from birth to age five. Free childcare and dinner are also provided. Learn more and find your local Academy here.

Funded Programs
Focus Area: Kindergarten Readiness & Supportive Relationships 
Dollars Invested: $260,465

• Hardin County Schools
• Breckinridge County Schools
• Breckinridge-Grayson Programs
• Home of the Innocents
• Grayson County Schools
• Elizabethtown Independent Schools
• CASA of the Heartland
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana
• Tri County CASA
• Mission Hope for Kids
• Larue County Schools