Blog

R4K Creates Brighter Futures

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 incubated and launched R4K (Ready for Kindergarten) - a holistic approach that supports families during a child’s first years with a focus on educational, social-emotional impacts, and physical well-being.

United Way MV and NAACP Utica announce Black History Essay Contest Winner

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 Allbright: Development Specialist

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 Harvey: Utica's ESPRI Administrator

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 Maggie Williams: Marketing and Events Coordinator

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.