Dear Sioux Empire United Way Supporter,

Sioux Empire United Way is proud to provide services to 25 communities within Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha and Turner counties. During a recent visit to Dell Rapids, we witnessed one of our partner programs in action at the Dell Rapids Community Haven. This program provides quality before- and after-school programming, as well as summer services to school-aged youth.

Chad and Melissa's daughters, Hannah and Kathryn, attend the Haven. "It is wonderful to know that we have a safe place for our children to attend. The Haven provides quality care and great activities that are fun and challenging," Chad shared.

To learn more about the Haven, click here. To see how your gift to Sioux Empire United Way benefits other great communities, check out the great In Your Town tool.

Sioux Empire United Way

U.S. Bank Recognized by United Way Worldwide

A national company with local ties was recently awarded for its community involvement. United Way Worldwide honored U.S. Bank with the 2011 Spirit of America Award to recognize the company and its employees' commitment to improving the financial stability of individuals, families and local communities.

"We are thrilled that U.S. Bank has been recognized nationally for its community involvement," said Jay Powell, Sioux Empire United Way president. "Locally, U.S. Bank has partnered with United Way for many years, recognizing the importance of being involved in our community, by giving and volunteering."

Learn more.

7th Annual WomenUnite! Event

Please join us to learn how your support of Sioux Empire United Way will benefit USucceed, an exciting new mentoring program for high school students. The WomenUnite! Event provides an atmosphere that inspires and unites women to a relatable cause.

A survey of at-risk teenagers in Sioux Falls found that 51 percent were not living with a parent and/or guardian. The survey also found the following:

• 37% needed help finding a job.
• 28% needed help finding housing.
• 19% needed help learning how to budget money, pay rent or deal with a landlord.

Currently in the Sioux Empire, there are few options for structured mentoring for students after the age of 14. Sioux Empire United Way's expanded partnership with Lutheran Social Services will form a new long-term mentoring program, USucceed, for students as they enter the pivotal time of high school.

• At-risk students are first priority at USucceed. Students will be matched with a mentor early in their high school careers.
• A volunteer mentor will commit to at least four years of mentoring a student, which helps build a relationship that lasts through the student's entire high school career.
• An independence coordinator will operate the program and assist both mentors and students.
• Mentors will help students set and meet goals in money management, college and career exploration, social relationships, daily living and more.

Your attendance supports USucceed. Volunteer to host a table of your friends or ask for a personal invitation.

When: August 31 at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Ramkota Exhibit Hall
Cost: $10/person