Focus areas of United Way

In addition to his work as a sales representative and executive with a variety of successful companies, Charles L. Starr contributes to United Way Worldwide. A non-profit organization that provides fundraising and support services to charitable organizations, United Way works with a large number of charities and focuses on a wide variety of issues. Here is a brief overview of the issues addressed by United Way charities. Education – One of the pillars of a stable and prosperous community, education is one of the many sectors United Way assists. More than one million American children drop out of school every year, resulting in a loss of more than $300 billion in possible income over the course of their lives. By encouraging the development of supportive communities that place a high value on education, United Way hopes to drastically reduce the number of high school dropouts by 2018. Instead of focusing only on high school students, United Way concentrates on all phases of education, from early childhood to high school graduation. Financial assistance for those in need – In many American families, wage earners do not earn enough money to cover the ever-increasing costs of housing, education, and healthcare. These families are often unable to save money for college or retirement, which only adds to the stress caused by their financial situations. By 2018, United Way hopes to slash the number of low-income families by nearly 2 million. To accomplish this goal, United Way established the Financial Stability Partnership, which helps families gain steady employment, purchase affordable housing, and put away money in savings accounts. Health – According to its mission statement, United Way seeks to make affordable health care available to all Americans. According to a 10-year plan initiated in 2008, United Way is working to make dramatic increases in the number of Americans who live healthy lifestyles. To accomplish this goal, United Way works closely with families, health care providers, and legislators to advance policies that promote healthy living. Disaster relief – In the wake of tragedies such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005, local communities find themselves in desperate need of assistance. When disaster strikes, United Way partners with local communities to drive relief efforts and help advance the common good.