Blog

Birth to age five is the most important year in a child's development.

United Way of the Mohawk Valley (United Way MV) and our partners such as Excellus BlueCross BlueShield know that early childhood education is vital to the overall health of our community’s youngest residents. United Way MV’s R4K (Ready for Kindergarten) initiative’s holistic approach supports families during a child’s first years with a focus on educational, social-emotional impacts, and physical well-being.

United Way MV's Women United Virtual Celebration

This year, we partnered with the NAACP Utica branch to organize a Black History Month children’s book giveaway and essay contest. This partnership focused on celebrating black history and the black community.

Up to five winners were chosen to receive four books, which are all around the 3-6 grade reading level, that focused on the importance of black history. Contestants then had the opportunity to write a reflection essay on one of the four books to win a $100 Amazon gift card!

Meet Sandy!    

Sandy began her career with United Way MV in 1989, and. Has since gained over 30 years of on-the-job training. She is an important piece of the Development team, as Sandy supports our annual fundraising efforts and manages our donor database. She initially was connected with United Way due to her knowledge of shorthand writing, and has since made a lifelong career out making a difference here in the Mohawk Valley!

Meet Dietra!

Dietra began her career with United Way MV as the Utica ESPRI (Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative) Administrator in November 2017. Along with her Associate Degree from MVCC in Human Services and a Bachelor’s degree in Business/Organizational Management from Keuka College, she brings her extensive experience in non-profit work and connections in the community with her to the team.

Meet Liz!   

Liz, our in-house outdoors lover, began her career with United Way MV in November 2019. Bringing 15 years of experience in the finance field to the team, she assists the finance team with everything from maintaining the books to volunteering for our Free Tax Prep initiative.

Meet Erica!   

Erica began her career with United Way MV in October 2020 as an R4K (Ready for Kindergarten) Family School Navigator, bringing her B.A. in Human Services and 12 years of experience working with children and families to the team. Prior to working at United Way, she was facilitating Nurturing Parenting programs.

Meet Kristen!

Kristen began her career with United Way MV in October 2018, with 15 years of prior experience in the finance and accounting field before entering the non-profit world. She received her B.S. in Finance from SUNY Canton.

Meet Maggie!

A graduate of Le Moyne College with a dual B.S in Marketing and Management & Leadership, Maggie began her career with United Way MV in October 2019. Prior to joining the United Way team, she worked in marketing and events in the food/beverage industry while coordinating weddings for multiple venues. Today, Maggie leads the charge on United Way events and social media in addition to providing support to the marketing team.

Meet Linda!