We are committed to building a stronger, more vibrant community. That starts with our children.

We know what happens in the early years is an important part of their foundation for success in school, work and life.

That’s why education is one of our priorities. We know it’s a priority for the Eastern Panhandle. Whether you ask employers, or educators, or parents – they'll tell you that our greatest community resource is our children.

United Way of the Eastern Panhandle works with partners, schools, child care providers, preschools and afterschool care providers to help children start school ready to succeed.

We promote grade-level reading by nurturing school-community partnerships, empowering parent advocates, and developing essential resources that serve both children and their families.

We invest in nonprofit organizations that holistically address education and literacy. Our funded partners work to strengthen academic success for students across the Eastern Panhandle.

The Born Learning Initiative

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A United Way Employee sets up a book distribution stand at a Berkeley County event.

In addition to supporting youth opportunity through our partner agencies, United Way of the Eastern Panhandle focuses on early childhood education and parental engagement support through our Born Learning Initiative.  The Born Learning Initiative focuses on providing access to educational materials to community children of all ages through direct outreach.

The photo above depicts United Way of the Eastern Panhandle's Director of Marketing and Donor Engagement, Nicholas Malin, giving out books during a Berkeley County Public Schools event in 2024. 

 

We have also invested in a Born Learning Trail in partnership with Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation and Healthy Berkeley.  The trail is located at P.O. Faulkner Park.  There are signs along the trail to suggest activities for families with children as they walk along the trail. 

 

 

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