"With one in three children in New York City living in poverty, funds raised by the Gridiron Gala are crucial to providing our city's young people with opportunities for a better life," said United Way of NYC President and CEO Gordon Campbell.  "We could be more grateful to the New York Jets, the New York Giants, and our corporate sponsors for their support of the Gridiron Gala and throughout the year."

More than 1,000 corporate and community leaders, current Jets players Mike DeVito, Vladimir Ducasse, D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Dustin Keller, Matt Kroul, Aaron Maybin, Caleb Schlauderaff, Muhammad Wilkerson, current Giants players Will Beaty, Kevin Boothe, James Brewer, Chris Canty, Jim Cordle, Victor Cruz, Dan DePalma, Hakeem Nicks, Bear Pascoe, Antrel Rolle, Terrell Thomas, Lawrence Tynes, Steve Weatherford, as well as NFL legends Ted Banker, Emerson Boozer, Chad Cascadden, Rich Caster, Mike Damato, Mark Gastineau, Dave Herman, Joe Klecko, Ray Lucas, Greg Murphy, Joe Namath, John Schmidt, Amani Toomer, Wesley Walker, Erich Barnes, Brian Kelley, Sean Landeta, Curtis McGriff, and Karl Nelson attended the lively event, now a New York tradition.

Every year, the Gridiron Gala honors leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community. The 2012 honorees were:

Hometown Heroes

• Brandon Moore, Guard, New York Jets
• Chris Snee, Guard, New York Giants

MVP Award

• Harry D. Carson, 231st Member, Pro Football Hall of Fame

Community Quarterbacks

• Richard D. Hong, Vice President, Global Brand & Marketing, MetLife
• Raymond Quartararo, International Director, Jones Lang LaSalle

"I am humbled to be acknowledged as a Hometown Hero for the work I do in my community," said Brandon Moore, Guard for the New York Jets.  "I am proud to give back and hope that I can inspire others to do the same."

"Hometown Hero is a badge I will wear with pride for the rest of my life," said Chris Snee, Guard for the New York Giants.  "It is so fulfilling to be able to give back to my hometown and I hope that everyone is able to join this effort and help those in need."

"This is the most important MVP award I've ever received," said Harry D. Carson, 231st Member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  "It's crucial for all of us to give back to our communities, and United Way does such an incredible job of helping those who are in need."

The United Way and the NFL have been partners for almost four decades. Back in 1973 the two organizations developed the idea of using the NFL's network contract airtime to promote United Way during telecasts. Since then, this partnership has helped to raise awareness of the value of giving back to the community as well as the good work of both United Way and the league and its players in the community.

The NFL's support of United Way extends well beyond the commercials seen during game broadcasts, however. There is a shared goal to make an impact in communities served by both institutions, with a current focus on encouraging youth to develop healthy eating and exercise habits. 

United Way of New York City relies on active corporate partners.  This year it is recognizing the outstanding commitment by MetLife and Jones Lang LaSalle.

"I am so honored to have been chosen as a Community Quarterback," said Richard Hong, Vice President, Global Brand & Marketing, MetLife.  "MetLife has been a proud partner of United Way for generations, and our employees donate over $1 million to United Way organizations throughout the country each year.  We both have a shared vision of providing a safety net for those in need."

"Jones Lang LaSalle has enjoyed a rewarding relationship with United Way for nearly 10 years," said Raymond Quartararo, International Director, Jones Lang LaSalle. "The United Way is a fabulous organization that does tremendous work with children throughout the New York metropolitan area. We are proud to help raise funds to support the United Way's mission."

Photos of the event will be available as of 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 16 at: http://liveunitednyc.org/press/gg_2012.php

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About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. We design and invest in evidence-based programs that help low-income New Yorkers achieve educational success, income stability and good health.  We rigorously evaluate our work and use lessons learned to inform and advance citywide policies and practices that prevent and alleviate poverty citywide   To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.UnitedWayNYC.org.
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We hope you'll tune in when United Way of New York City's Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC) initiative is featured in an episode of WNET's MetroFocus titled "Education Innovation" premiering:

WLIW 21 - Tuesday, May 15, 10:30 p.m.

NJTV - Wednesday, May 16, 10:30 p.m.

THIRTEEN - Thursday, May 17, 8:30 p.m.

"Education Innovation" will explore what's new and improving in education and will feature Sal Khan, internet educator and one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people; bestselling author and Harvard professor Michael Sandel; an interview with NYC Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott; an examination of the evolving issue of teacher evaluations; interviews with the New Jersey and New York state education commissioners; and a first-hand look at our GPS-NYC program.

View now

New York, NY - United Way of New York City (UWNYC) today announced $237,775 in grants to help 25 New York City nonprofit organizations integrate and streamline the back ends of their organizations' operations. The awards will enable collaborations of two to three small nonprofits to develop efficiencies that will result in time and money saved.

"These grants reflect a growing trend in a nonprofit world faced with record demand and historic under-funding," said Gordon Campbell, President and CEO of UWNYC. "Mergers and strategic alliances, shared space, shared bookkeeping and purchasing, and integrating database systems for analyzing outcomes on shared programs are some of the ways that organizations are finding to streamline their operations. The grants we are announcing today support nonprofits in rolling out their collaborations so that they succeed.  The idea is that after the UWNYC grant ends, nonprofits will be in a better position to devote more resources to program delivery." 

The grants are unusual among nonprofits as the vast majority of dollars from public and private funders typically go toward specific programmatic needs. United Way of New York City's Collaboration Grants were awarded based on proposals to increase operational efficiencies and make systems improvements that strengthen organizational infrastructures. The work they are able to accomplish through these awards will position grantees to dedicate fewer resources to back-end activities and allocate more human and/or financial resources to serving constituents. The grant also includes peer learning opportunities for grantees through panels and forums.

"This is a critical time for communities most affected by the economic downturn and a job market that remains stagnant. Most funders want to see impact – and rightfully so.  But, there are few grants out there that allow the real strategic work, the thinking in an intentional way, to get us there," said Ian Marvy, Executive Director of Added Value and Herban Solutions, Inc., which received a United Way Collaboration Grant in partnership with Green City Force. "We're really looking forward to this United Way partnership.  This is a funding stream that's providing a resource and a rationale for two executive directors and their staff to structure and hone their partnership to meet the needs of the community we serve."

Organizations whose mission areas include youth services, workforce development (including green jobs), community development, housing services, urban agriculture, childcare and child welfare will receive $17,775 - $20,000 for collaboration projects, including:

Manhattan                               

• Damayan + Desis Rising Up and Moving Inc.: to create a fundraising strategy, protocols and templates, hire a shared fundraising consultant and train key staff in shared fundraising practices
• Fresh Youth Initiatives, Inc. + The Cornerstone Learning Center, Inc.: to develop a communications plan and shared systems to manage funders and fundraising and track program outcomes
• Kids Creative + Border Crossers, Inc: to combine operations and administrative functions, deepen evaluations, expand strategic development planning, and support elements of a formal collaboration
• Lower Eastside Girls Club of NY + Girls Quest: to integrate financial management systems and a program database, and to develop a communications strategy and a funder's strategy
  

Brooklyn

• Brooklyn Legal Services Corporation A + Bedford-Stuyvesant Community Legal Services: to develop a shared, centralized, web-based database system with remote access to analyze program data and provide reports to better serve legal efforts and proactive program planning
• Fifth Ave Committee, Inc. (FAC) + Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Inc.: to support first year implementation of a new strategic alliance, including administrative and program-level integration, merging of database systems for fundraising and program data tracking, developing communications strategy, fiscal integration, and planning to merge organizational cultures
• Green City Force + Added Value and Herban Solutions, Inc.: to create a more streamlined delivery of year two pilot by developing program protocols and a staff manual, assessment plan, communications strategy and approach to mesh organizational cultures
• Brooklyn Workforce Innovations + Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow + Nontraditional Employment for Women: to develop streamlined processes for quicker, more efficient and effective job training and adult education program delivery at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, including evaluation plans and protocols for shared space and administrative functions
• United Community Centers + United Community Day Care Center: to merge accounting systems and train a finance director to manage integrated books

Queens

• Chhaya Community Development Corporation + Chinatown Manpower Project + Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York, Inc.: to help reduce duplication of services and inefficient service delivery, to standardize and centralize the intake, screening and referral processes; test options to integrate program data across organizations and streamline reporting
• New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE) + MinKwon Center for Community Action + Adhikaar for Human Rights: to develop a system to manage a shared first-time federal grant, standardize record keeping, templates for reporting to DOL, communications and data collection across language differences, and data to strengthen advocacy efforts

Bronx

• BridgeBuilders Community Partnership, Inc. + Child Welfare Organizing Project: to develop a centralized, web based data base with remote access for managing program data, cross referencing clients' program usage, and creating reports to analyze outcomes

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About United Way of NYC:
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. We design and invest in evidence-based programs that help low-income New Yorkers achieve educational success, income stability and good health.  We rigorously evaluate our work and use lessons learned to inform and advance citywide policies and practices that prevent and alleviate poverty citywide   To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.UnitedWayNYC.org.

New York, NY – United Way of New York City's (UWNYC) Women's Leadership Council (WLC) today kicked off its 10th anniversary year with an awards luncheon honoring women who have made a significant impact on their communities through philanthropic giving, advocacy, and volunteerism.  This was WLC's 6th annual The Power of Women to Make a Difference luncheon and featured a keynote speech by CNN anchor and Special Correspondent, Soledad O'Brien.

The event, hosted by style and beauty expert and philanthropist Mary Alice Stephenson, raised $362,000 in proceeds which will directly benefit the Women's Leadership Council Fund.  The WLC Fund supports UWNYC's youth empowerment initiatives which include efforts to reduce childhood obesity, improve the quality of early care and education, and boost on-time graduation rates.

"Today’s honorees are three of the most exceptional women I know," said Gordon Campbell, President and CEO of United Way of New York City.  "Their work and leadership embody the tremendous spirit of philanthropy and community service – truly 'The Power of Women to Make a Difference' in our great city."

The 2012 WLC honorees are: Karen B. Peetz, BNY Mellon, Women’s Leadership Council Founder's Award; Avis Richards, Birds Nest Productions, Women's Leadership Council Philanthropist Award; Ivette Fernandez, News Corporation, Women's Leadership Council Woman of Distinction Award.

The luncheon also launched a social media campaign focused around "What Woman Inspires You?" The campaign allows the public to pay tribute to female role models on twitter (#WLCinspire), Facebook, LinkedIn and Pinterest. 

The WLC has raised more than $3 million in support of United Way of New York City's youth empowerment initiatives since 2006.  These include:

• Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC), which targets ninth graders with a history of chronic absenteeism in 60 underserved public schools and provides them with academic support, attendance outreach, counseling, and case management in order to improve on-time graduation rates and college readiness.

• Supporting Transitions from Early-education to Public School (STEPS), which seeks to ensure that that a child's learning and developmental needs are continuously met during the first eight years of life – ensuring that they master essential reading and math skills, a critical foundation for success in middle school, high school and beyond.

• Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start, which provides nutrition education within the Head Start system and engages children, families, and staff in activities that lead to healthy eating.

At the luncheon, NYC high school students Stevalecia Munipersaud, Angela Nery and Selena Garcia, whose schools participate in the GPS-NYC program, were recognized for their winning essays on "What Woman Inspires You?" and won $150 prizes.

The event was attended by a diverse group including celebrities, philanthropists, stylists, Broadway performers, non-profit leaders, business executives and other notable guests including:

• Chandra Lee Schwartz – Broadway actress, currently Glenda the Good Witch in Wicked
• Montego Glover – Tony award nominee, Broadway actress currently, Felicia Farrel in Memphis
• Carol Woods – Grammy nominee, Broadway actress, currently Matron "Mama" Morton in Chicago
• Chilina Kennedy – Broadway actress currently starring as Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar
• Dr. Lisa Airan
• Olivia Chantecaille
• Coralie Charriol
• Jennifer Creel

Platinum sponsors of the event, held at The Plaza Hotel, were BNY Mellon and Macy's.

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FOR PHOTOS, please visit http://liveunitednyc.org/press/wlc_luncheon_2012.php

About the Women's Leadership Council
The Women's Leadership Council (WLC) is a network of women dedicated to making a difference in the lives of New York City's young people.  The WLC, now celebrating their 10th anniversary, has raised more than $3 million in support of United Way of New York City's youth empowerment initiatives. The WLC's efforts comprise much more than fundraising, such as panel discussions on topics that affect young people in our community to networking events with other members.

About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. We design and invest in evidence-based programs that help low-income New Yorkers achieve educational success, income stability and good health.  We rigorously evaluate our work and use lessons learned to inform and advance citywide policies and practices that prevent and alleviate poverty citywide.

On March 5, Macy’s Senior Vice President of Government & Consumer Affairs & Diversity Vendor Development Ed Goldberg and Vice President for Corporate Communications & Employee Giving Margaret Grioli presented UWNYC President & CEO Gordon Campbell with a check for $344,000. Macy’s corporate gift will provide broad support for UWNYC’s poverty-fighting efforts, which include boosting on-time graduation rates in underserved public high schools and helping low-income New Yorkers access nutritious food.

Board of Directors Commends Legacy, Will Begin Search for Replacement

New York, NY- United Way of New York City (UWNYC) announced today that President and CEO Gordon Campbell will be stepping down effective September, 2012.  Campbell will be joining New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service as a Professor of Practice.  UWNYC is set to begin a transition and search for his replacement.

"This was not an easy decision as the work and mission of United Way is so deeply important to me," said Campbell.  "I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our Board and staff for the past four and a half amazing years. It has been a privilege to work with some of the most dedicated individuals I know in improving education, income stability and health, and strengthening the capacity of nonprofits across the five boroughs. Our efforts to inform and advance citywide policies, practices and systems are beginning to achieve the kind of scalable, sustainable changes that are critical in the fight to alleviate and prevent poverty.  I am very confident in the ability of UWNYC’s Board, senior leadership and staff to continue to build on that success."

Robert J. Kueppers, Chair of the Board and Chief Volunteer Officer, stated, "While we are disappointed by Gordon’s decision, we wish him the absolute best in pursuing his long-time dream of teaching at the university level full-time.  The Board and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gordon for the incredible work he has done during his tenure at United Way.  He steered the organization through the funding challenges of the severe economic downturn, and helped us emerge on stronger financial footing for the future.  And he helped make United Way NYC a driving force in improving education, income stability and health throughout New York’s diverse communities.   His vision and energy have been a daily inspiration."

"In the coming weeks the Board will form a Search Committee to focus on the important task of identifying United Way of New York City’s next President & CEO," Kueppers continued.  "We will ensure that the organization doesn’t miss a beat in advancing its mission to alleviate and prevent poverty across the five boroughs."

About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City (UWNYC) brings together people, resources and ideas to achieve lasting systemic changes that improve the education, income stability and health of New Yorkers, and foster a more robust and effective nonprofit sector. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.UnitedWayNYC.org.

MyFreeTaxes.com is a free service sponsored by the Walmart Foundation in partnership with One Economy Corporation, National Disabilities Institute's Real Economic Impact Tour, and United Way Worldwide. Visit the site to file your taxes online or to find locations in your ZIP code where you can go for help filing your taxes.

You can also get help filing your taxes at a MoneyUP VITA site. United Way of New York City and The Financial Clinic offer free tax preparation help and financial coaching.  Individuals and families who earned $50,000 or less in 2011 are eligible for free tax preparation as part of MoneyUP.

2012 MoneyUP VITA Locations

United Way of New York City's MoneyUP initiative is seeking volunteers to assist low-income New Yorkers with filing their taxes and making the most of the their tax refund through one-on-one financial coaching available at the tax site.  This is a great opportunity for NYC professionals to utilize financial skills, enhance their resumes, and give back to their communities.  We have three different kinds of volunteer opportunities available:

• Volunteer Intake Specialists will help greet filers, insure that they have all their paperwork for tax preparation, and complete an IRS intake form.
  
• Associate Volunteer Financial Coaches will coach families through a range of financial health indicators that will help them build economic security. Volunteers will introduce year-round supports, help filers download their credit reports and get screened for benefits.
  
• Experienced Volunteer Tax Preparers will prepare tax returns for low-income individuals and families and help them apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit.

The sites are located in Midtown West and Lower East Side Manhattan and Flushing, Queens.

Qualifications include:

• High degree of interest in helping low-income working families secure work supports, reduce debt, improve creditworthiness, foster savings habits, and address tax and consumer credit issues;
• Commitment to volunteering at least three 2–4 hour shifts during the 2012 tax season (February – April);
• Volunteer Tax Preparers must be certified to "Basic" through the IRS' Link and Learn.
• Volunteer Intake Specialists and Associate Financial Coaches will be provided with a short training on how to conduct the survey, download credit reports and do benefits screenings.

If you are interested in volunteering for the above positions, please contact John Coghlan at jcoghlan@uwnyc.org or (212) 251-2421. 

Open and save your copy of Tools and Tips for Reading with Children.

On December 13, New York Giant Chris Canty hosted a holiday party benefiting 125 students at P.S. 179 in the Bronx.  Dressed as Santa, Canty presented each child with a toy from his or her holiday wish list.  Children also enjoyed pizza and games in addition to their visit with Santa. 

P.S. 179 is a participating school in United Way of New York City's Supporting Transitions from Early-education to Public School (STEPS) initiative, which seeks to improve early grade literacy by ensuring that a child's learning and developmental needs are continuously met during the first eight years of life.

New York (December 8, 2011) – In his most intimate performances in years, Shawn "JAY Z" Carter will headline at Carnegie Hall, in the Stern Auditorium, raising millions for United Way of New York City and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation on February 6, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. and February 7, 2012 at 9:30 p.m.  Concert goers will get a once in a lifetime experience as JAY Z takes the stage at the New York landmark to raise dollars that will help boost on-time graduation rates in underserved New York City schools and put college within reach for low-income students across the five boroughs.

"It's every artist's dream to play a venue as legendary as Carnegie Hall," commented Shawn "JAY Z" Carter.  "The fact that I can use the arts and my talent to benefit the education of the next generation of artists, entrepreneurs, and great thinkers makes for a legendary night.  I'm proud to be a part of the continuing work of United Way of New York City and expanding the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation."

Poverty has the strongest correlation to dropout rates. New York City has the largest income gap in the U.S., and thirty percent of children in New York City live in poverty. Because of statistics like these, coupled with the fact that thirty-nine percent of New York City students who enter high school will not graduate on time, United Way of New York City, The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation and Shawn "JAY Z" Carter are engaging activists and philanthropists to provide resources and opportunities for students.

"United Way is dedicated to helping low-income New Yorkers build better lives, and we know that the greatest antidote to poverty is education," said Gordon J. Campbell, CEO, United Way of New York City.  "For more than 20 years, we have been active in early childhood centers and public schools, working with educators, families and students to address barriers to success inside and outside the classroom.  We are so pleased to partner with JAY Z and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation, who share our belief that every child deserves a great education."   

"It will be a thrill to welcome JAY Z to Carnegie Hall as he joins an illustrious list of top popular artists who have appeared at the Hall throughout its history," said Clive Gillinson, Carnegie Hall's Executive and Artistic Director.  "It's wonderful that he and the United Way of New York City have come together with the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation for these performances, putting a spotlight on an important cause, creating greater access to higher education."

Beginning on Monday, December 12th, information about benefit packages will be available at www.unitedwaynyc.org or www.shawncartersf.com.

In addition, a limited number of single tickets will be offered to the public on Monday, January 30th, 2012 at 11:00 AM (EST).   For more information on limited single tickets, please visit www.carnegiehall.org as of January 30.

For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jamie Rose at Jamie@missionbig.com or Mary Micevych at mmicevych@uwnyc.org.

ABOUT SHAWN "JAY Z" CARTER
Since 1996, 13-time Grammy award winner, Shawn "JAY Z" Carter has dominated the evolution of hip-hop.  Between multiple businesses and accolades spanning the recording industry to global investment leaders such as Warren Buffet, Jay personifies the "American Dream." Indeed, as the Founder and Chairman of Rocawear, he is a co-owner of the NJ Nets, the majority owner of the 40/40 sports clubs. He also has a major interest in Translation Advertising and Carol’s Daughter skin line, as well being involved in a partnership with the Iconix Brand Group.
JAY Z served as President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, where he fostered the careers of international stars Rihanna, Ne-Yo and Kanye West before entering into a partnership with Live Nation to form Roc Nation.  With his collaborative effort with Kanye West, WATCH THE THRONE, his 12th #1 album, he has secured the record for most #1 albums by any solo artist.  JAY Z continues his philanthropic work through his Water For Life initiative and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation.

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF NEW YORK CITY
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. We design and invest in evidence-based programs that help low-income New Yorkers achieve educational success, income stability and good health.  We rigorously evaluate our work and use lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty and achieving their potential.

We believe that poverty’s greatest antidote is education.  We partner with educators and families to ensure that children from low-income neighborhoods are reading proficiently by the time they complete third grade – a vital foundation for success in middle school, high school and beyond.  We also work to improve on-time graduation rates and college readiness in 60 underserved public schools through intensive academic, social, and emotional support for students at high risk of dropping out.

ABOUT SHAWN CARTER SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation was conceived of in 2002 and officially established as a 501(c)3 public charity in 2003 by Shawn & Gloria Carter. With an original vision and mission to help individuals facing socio-economic hardships further his or her education at institutions of higher learning, Shawn and Gloria Carter kicked off the Foundation’s efforts by awarding one student with full college tuition in 2002. From 2003 to 2005, each year the Foundation provided 50 scholarships to students in 50 different states. In 2006, in addition to providing scholarship awards to a growing number of students in need, the Foundation launched the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation College Tours. Since the Since Foundation’s inception, over 750 students have received awards totaling over $1.3 million dollars. The Foundation is currently on the precipice of growth and is reviewing its current grant-making priorities as it plans for expansion as the Shawn Carter Foundation.

Press Contacts:
Ter`rece Walker
Sunshine Sachs
walker@sunshinesachs.com
212.691.2800

Julie Cloutier
Sunshine Sachs
cloutier@sunshinesachs.com
212.691.2800

Jana Fleishman
Roc Nation
jf@rocnation.com
212.833.4083

Dan Silverman
Sunshine Sachs
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New York, NY 10010
P: 212-691-2800
F: 212-691-2670
Silverman@sunshinesachs.com

The NFL's PLAY 60 is the league's campaign to encourage kids to be active for 60 minutes a day in order to help reverse the trend of childhood obesity. NFL PLAY 60 and United Way are working together to provide new, fun opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles and encouraging kids to play at least 60 minutes every day.

"United Way of NYC is committed to improving health for vulnerable New Yorkers and the key is to establish healthy habits at a young age," said UWNYC President and CEO Gordon Campbell. "With so many football fans in the area, the NFL sets a great example by both getting kids up and active, and helping provide the on-the-ground tools kids need to live a healthy lifestyle in their own communities."

"Just 60 minutes of physical activity a day can make a world of difference in combating obesity and is something our employees and players believe in strongly," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "Partnering with United Way of New York City allows us to reach kids where we can have a meaningful and positive impact on youth development and help some future football players and their fans throughout New York City." 

The Expeditionary Learning School for Community Leaders (2630 Benson Ave, Brooklyn, NY) is a participant in United Way's citywide Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC) initiative—a robust and targeted dropout prevention program that works to ensure that high school students graduate on time, ready for college. CAMBA, a New York based non-profit that serves community needs by creating individualized service-oriented programming, is United Way's community-based partner in administering GPS-NYC at the school.

The 13th Annual Hometown Huddle is part of United Way's nationwide call-to-action for individuals to LIVE UNITED©—to give, advocate and volunteer on issues relating to education, income or health.  United Way has declared bold, 10-year goals in each of those three areas.  In the area of health, the goal is to increase by one-third the percentage of healthy youth and adults by 2018.  In addition to United Way's citywide GPS-NYC initiative, other efforts include UWNYC's Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start project, which impacts nutrition policies, increases nutrition literacy and healthy food consumption at NYC Head Start centers. UWNYC also works to improve the health and nutritional status of New Yorkers as the local administrator for the New York State Department of Health's Hunger Prevention Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP).

United Way of New York City and partners like the NFL work together to create innovative new strategies and partnerships across all sectors—businesses, nonprofits, governments and individuals—to ultimately help children and families across the City live healthier and more successful lives. 

**Photos Available at www.unitedwaynyc.org/hometownhuddle**

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About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs.  With a focus on education, income and health—the building blocks of a good life—UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. United Way's GPS-NYC initiative helps high school students with a history of chronic absenteeism graduate on time and be ready for college. For more information, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

About NFL PLAY 60
Designed to tackle childhood obesity, NFL PLAY 60 brings together the NFL's long standing commitment to youth health and fitness with an impressive roster of partner organizations like United Way. In addition to national outreach and online programs, PLAY 60 is implemented at the grassroots level through NFL's in-school, after-school and team-based programs. Since the program was launched in 2007, the NFL has committed more than $250 million to youth health and fitness through programming, grants, and media time for public service announcements.  To learn more, visit nflrush.com/play60.

About CAMBA
CAMBA is one of Brooklyn's largest community-based organizations.  Founded in 1977 as a merchants' block association, the agency has grown in direct response to the needs of the Brooklyn community and beyond.  Today, CAMBA provides services to 45,000 individuals and families annually through an integrated set of six program areas:  Economic Development, Education and Youth Development, Family Support Services, HIV/AIDS Services, Housing Services and Development, and Legal Services.  With over 50 locations throughout Brooklyn and across the City, we have deep ties to the communities in which we operate.  Through our comprehensive continuum of care, CAMBA provides services which connect people with opportunities to enhance their quality of life.

UCLA basketball player, lawyer, and family man are just a few of the goals that 15-year-old Luis has for himself. Quiet with an endearing smile, Luis is wise beyond his years. When he realized that the lengthy commute to his previous school was hindering his academic progress, he asked for a transfer and enrolled at Urban Assembly for Media Studies High School.

Now in the tenth grade, he thanks United Way of New York City's Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC) program for helping him recover the credits he lost and re-engage with school. "It's much better now—I come to school early and get good grades; it feels good here," Luis says with a smile. "I'm comfortable with more people, and I play sports so I'm friends with a lot more people now." Basketball is a big part of his life, and this year his team went to the playoffs with a 16-1 record!

GPS is a dropout prevention initiative that targets ninth-grade students with a history of chronic absenteeism and provides them with afterschool and extended-learning opportunities, attendance outreach, counseling, and family involvement. GPS counselors give students like Luis a safe space in which they can feel supported in their academic and life endeavors. Ms. Tavi, a GPS counselor, is currently working with Luis to help him find summer activities and possibly a part time job. She says, "We want him to stay engaged."

"Usually I'll say ‘This is what I want,' but I never pushed myself. GPS tries to get me to go to college fairs early, and since I was talking about taking care of my family, they are trying to get me a job," Luis says. Since becoming involved in GPS, Luis has had the extra support he needs to stay in school and focus on the things that matter most to him. "You can't achieve goals if you are always absent," he says. His goals for this year? "To be myself and stay positive."

Lower Income NYers More Willing to Act
New York, NY - United Way of New York City (UWNYC) today announced the results of a city-wide poll that found 67% of New Yorkers are concerned someone they know will need help getting and paying for food in the coming twelve months. Fully half (50%) of New Yorkers consider hunger a “major problem” facing the city and more than three-quarters (78%) think the federal government has a responsibility to step in even amid a recession.

“Two out of three people in this city believe someone they know will need help getting food in the coming year, a reality that is unfathomable in one of the richest cities in the world,” said United Way of New York City Senior Vice President for Community Investment Jennifer Jones Austin. “The vast majority of New Yorkers think the federal government should take the lead in helping combat hunger, and instead we’re seeing historic cuts to services.”

Other major findings include:
Most New Yorkers think hunger is a problem (84%). More than three in five – would assume that both the number of New Yorkers who go hungry (69%). increased and demand for food assistance at food pantries (63%) has increased in the past year or two. And fully half assume those numbers have increased a lot (49% and 46%, respectively), not just a little; they also believe New York’s food pantries serve more families with children, including working families, than in previous years. Two in five (38%) of New Yorkers say they (16%) or a family member (8%) or both (13%) bought less healthy foods because they were cheaper than buying fresh foods. Thirty-six percent (36%) of New Yorkers say they (15%) or a family member (9%) or both (12%) had difficulty paying for food or groceries. Thirty-three percent (33%) of New Yorkers say they (14%) or a family member (10%) or both (9%) chose between paying for food and rent or some other household expense. One-quarter (24%) say they (10%) or a family member (10%) or both (4%) have had to turn to family members or friends to help pay for food or groceries. One-quarter (23%) say they (9%) or a family member (6%) or both (8%) skipped meals or ate less because they could not afford food for three meals a day. Just over one in ten (13%) say they personally (6%), a family member (5%), or both (2%) received food from a food pantry.

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), also administered by UWNYC, provides support to low-income New Yorkers on an emergency basis to prevent hunger, preserve housing, provide shelter, and support their basic energy needs. This past year, EFSP supported 234 soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters who, in turn, served one million meals and distributed 1.5 million bags of food.

In February 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded United Way of New York City $2 million to promote hunger free communities. With the grant, UWNYC is leading the Hunger Free Communities Consortium, a partnership of NYC’s leading nonprofit and governmental anti-hunger, nutrition, and aging organizations working to significantly reduce hunger and improve nutrition throughout the city.

Jennifer Jones Austin added, “Part of what makes the work of United Way so powerful is that when we see a need, we bring together tremendous resources to help meet it, and that’s what we’re doing in combating the challenge of rising hunger in New York. United Way of New York City is working to improve access to food when New Yorkers need it most, and to ensure that families receive nutritious food, not just empty calories.”

Toplines are available for viewing at: www.unitedwaynyc.org/2011hungersurvey

Methodology
United Way of New York City commissioned Global Strategy Group to conduct a telephone survey of 700 New York City adults with oversamples of 100 African-American and 100 Latino adults. The survey was conducted between August 2 and 8, 2011 in both English and Spanish.
The base sample was fielded using an RDD methodology. The oversamples were conducted using targeted RDD sample for high density African-American and Latino census tracts. All interviews were conducted on landline telephones. The margin of error on the overall sample is +/-3.7%. The margin of error is larger at the subgroup level.

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About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. With a focus on education, income and health – the building blocks of a good life – UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. UWNYC rigorously evaluates its work and uses lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty by improving educational outcomes, strengthening financial stability, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

New York, NY – United Way of New York City's LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk drew thousands of New Yorkers, community leaders, and teams from the business, government and nonprofit sectors to help raise awareness of the need to "bridge" critical gaps in education, income stability and health that affect poor and low-income New Yorkers. More than 3,000 participants gathered in Foley Square and walked across the Brooklyn Bridge to Cadman Plaza Park for a Volunteer Festival featuring live music, food, activities for children and youth, plus dozens of nonprofit organizations from all five boroughs offering volunteer opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages.

“The thousands of us who walked today including elected officials, community leaders and concerned New Yorkers recognize just how bad things have gotten and are committed to doing something about it,” said United Way of New York City President and CEO Gordon Campbell. “The latest data remind us that we must all do more to help low-income New Yorkers achieve greater economic stability, educational success and good health. Every one of us has a role to play in creating pathways out of poverty.”

“Providing a strong educational foundation for our citizens is essential to the economic future of our city and country,” said New York City Department of Education Chancellor Dennis Walcott. “I’m grateful to United Way and our other partners for their efforts to increase public awareness around the importance of ensuring that every child has access to high-quality educational opportunities.”

“Skanska is proud to be the lead sponsor of United Way’s LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk for the second year in a row. This event is a perfect example of how New Yorkers from all walks of life can come together to make our city better. As a construction company, making cities better places to live, work and play is what we do every day, whether it’s building new bridges and parks, or constructing greener buildings and safer highway,” said Skanska USA Building President Bill Flemming. “Working with the United Way, we know we can help make a difference in the lives of the city’s most vulnerable residents.”

“Guardian is very proud to be a sponsor of the LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk," said Deanna M. Mulligan, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. "For more than 150 years, Guardian has been committed to helping New Yorkers and other Americans secure greater financial protection, and achieve better health and well being.  Guardian is both honored and pleased to join with United Way of New York City to shed light on the critical challenges facing so many New Yorkers, and to be a catalyst for change."

“National Grid is a proud sponsor of the LIVE UNITED Brooklyn Bridge Walk.  The event is a unique opportunity to celebrate teamwork at National Grid while supporting United Way programs,” said Rudy Wynter, National Grid Senior Vice President for Shared Services and United Way board member.  “National Grid has a long-standing partnership with United Way, helping to make a huge difference in the communities we both live in and serve.”

Today’s Bridge Walk and Volunteer Festival helped raise awareness about critical gaps in education, income and health in our city that have contributed to the fact that:

• One in five New Yorkers live below the poverty line, which for a family of three means earning less than $18,000 a year.
• 30% of New York City children under the age of 18 live in poverty.
• 56% of New York City public school students in grades 3 through 8 read below grade level and 39% of New York City students who enter ninth grade fail to graduate with their peers four years later.
• One in four New Yorkers lives in a household that can't afford enough food. Forty percent of New York City children in Head Start are obese or overweight.

Dollars raised will help fund United Way's outcome-driven programs that are working to ensure substantially higher graduate rates, improved income stability, and healthier lifestyles for vulnerable New Yorkers.

The Volunteer Festival featured live music by local bands Son de Brooklyn, Superhero, and Sesame Flyers; a family zone with stilt walkers, face painters, and arts and crafts; sports activities for youth and teens; interactive pavilions to learn about United Way’s work in education, income and health; and the chance to visit with dozens of local nonprofit groups seeking volunteer assistance throughout the year.

All walkers received complimentary health snacks and beverages courtesy of Driscoll Foods, Dr. Pepper/Snapple Group, Food Should Taste Good, and KIND Healthy Snacks. The festival featured 10 specialty food trucks including Organic Carts NYC, Rickshaw Dumpling Bar, Mexicue NY, Kimchi Taco Truck, Treats Truck and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs.  With a focus on education, income and health – the building blocks of a good life -- UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. UWNYC rigorously evaluates its work and uses lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty by improving educational outcomes, strengthening financial stability, and promoting healthier lifestyles. The LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk and Festival brings attention to  critical needs and educates the public on ways they can help by volunteering in their own communities.

About Skanska USA

Skanska USA is one of the largest, most financially sound construction networks in the country serving a broad range of industries including healthcare, education, sports, data centers, government, aviation, transportation, and water/wastewater. Headquartered in New York with 35 offices across the country, Skanska USA employs approximately 7,000 employees committed to sustainable construction and an injury-free workplace. Skanska USA Building, which specializes in building construction, and Skanska USA Civil, which is focused on civil infrastructure, generated $4.8 billion in revenue in 2010, representing 31 percent of Skanska’s global construction revenues. Additional operations in the U.S. include Skanska USA Commercial Development, which pursues commercial development initiatives in select U.S. markets, and Skanska Infrastructure Development Americas, which develops public-private partnerships. Global revenue of parent company Skanska AB, headquartered in Stockholm and listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, totaled $16.9 billion in 2010.

The 10th anniversary of 9-11 is considered a landmark timeframe for many families who suffered losses in the terrorist attacks and many families will be travelling to the city for the first time. It is the goal of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance Program to help these families navigate and cope with the events, which may be overwhelming for some.

The first objective of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program is to issue grants to families that are financially unable to travel to and stay in New York City for the 10th anniversary of 9-11. The program hopes to give families the opportunity to witness and experience commemorative events first-hand, in an atmosphere of community and caring. “It’s important to give people the opportunity to participate in commemorative activities and be around others who have shared similar experiences. It’s a great step on the path to healing,” said April Naturale, PhD and head of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program.

The second objective of the program is to set up and run “Family Support Centers” which will be located near the commemoration site and in other, non-disclosed locations. These spaces will be safe, media free spaces where family members can escape from the crowds and gather with other family members or just take time for themselves in a quiet space. There will be supportive services available in the “Family Support Centers” such as mental health professionals, group counseling, pastoral care, mind/body supports and other hospitality services to help make the family’s time at the commemoration easier.

Another component of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program is a toll-free, 24 hour crisis intervention hotline that can be accessed by anyone in the 9-11 community who is in need of 9-11 related mental health support and information about commemorative events. This hotline (1-866-212-0444) will run through September 2012. Events and other supportive resources will also be available on the program’s website at www.9-11HealingandRemembrance.org.

The main push and message of the program is to encourage people to not be alone on this landmark anniversary. Anniversaries can be difficult for some and help is still available.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) creates, leads and supports strategic initiatives that seek to achieve lasting city-wide improvements in the education, income stability, and health of New Yorkers. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

UWNYC and The New York Community Trust established The September 11th Fund to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of the victims, families and communities affected by the terror attacks. The September 11th Fund collected $534 million from more than two million donors and distributed 559 grants totaling $528 million. Grants from the Fund provided cash assistance, counseling, and other services to the families of those killed in the 9/11 attacks, the injured and those displaced from their homes or jobs. In December 2004, The Fund completed its distribution of funds and closed its doors.

About the Mental Health Association of New York City

MHA-NYC is a non-profit organization that addresses mental health needs in New York City and across the nation. It is a local organization with national impact and has a three-part mission of services, advocacy and education. MHA-NYC identifies unmet needs and develops culturally sensitive services and programs to improve lives while promoting the importance of mental wellness. www.mhaofnyc.org.

CONTACT:

Kathy Walling
United Way of New York City
(212) 251-2476
KWalling@uwnyc.org

New York, NY – Tonight’s 18th Annual Gridiron Gala at the Waldorf=Astoria presented by United Way of New York City along with the New York Giants and the New York Jets brought in more than $2 million to support United Way programs that help New York City at-risk youth. More than 1,000 corporate and community leaders, current Jets players D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Dustin Keller, current Giants players Will Beatty and Kevin Boothe, Giants 7th-round draft pick Da’Rel Scott, as well as NFL legends Ted Banker, Erich Barnes, Emerson Boozer, Greg Buttle, Harry Carson, Chad Cascadden, Rich Caster, Frank Gifford, Bruce Harper, Dave Herman, Bobby Jackson, Sean Landeta, Skip Lane, Ray Lucas, Curtis McGriff, Greg Murphy, Karl Nelson, Joe Namath, John Nitti, Amani Toomer, Bob Tucker, Wesley Walker and Charles Way attended the high-spirited event, now a New York tradition.

All funds raised at the Gridiron Gala will support United Way-led initiatives that improve the lives of the city’s most vulnerable children by:

combating childhood obesity by engaging young children, families and staff at Head Start centers in learning about the importance of healthy eating and exercise; 
promoting early grade literacy – a key foundation for success in middle school and beyond; and
helping at-risk youth make a smooth transition into high school and stay on track to on-time graduation.
“United Way of New York City is dedicated to ensuring quality education for every child in New York City. The event’s proceeds will fund outcome-driven United Way programs that will transform lives and foster long-term, sustainable change,” said United Way of New York City President & Chief Executive Officer Gordon J. Campbell. “We are grateful for all the support from the NFL as well as the corporate and community leaders who joined together tonight to support this cause.”

Every year, the Gridiron Gala honors leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community. The 2011 honorees were:

Hometown Heroes

Chris Canty, defensive lineman, New York Giants
Tony Richardson, fullback, New York Jets

Community Quarterbacks

Deloitte, represented by Barry Salzberg, Chief Executive Officer
Blackstone, represented by Laurence Tosi, Senior Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer
“I am humbled to be acknowledged as an advocate for those in need in my hometown,” said Chris Canty. “It is my hope that this recognition will encourage and inspire others to be more active in serving our community.”

“I am humbled and honored that I was chosen as one of the 2011 Hometown Heroes,” said Tony Richardson.  “United Way has changed the lives of so many young people, and I am blessed to be able to do my part to help that effort.”

United Way and the NFL have been partners for more than three decades. Back in 1973 the two organizations developed the idea of using the NFL’s network contract airtime to promote United Way during telecasts. Since then, this partnership has helped to raise awareness of the value of giving back to the community as well as the good work of both United Way and the league and its players in the community.

The NFL’s support of United Way extends well beyond the commercials seen during game broadcasts, however. There is a shared goal to make an impact in communities served by both institutions, with a current focus on encouraging youth to develop healthy eating and exercise habits.

United Way of New York City relies on active corporate partners.  This year it is recognizing the outstanding commitment of Deloitte and Blackstone.

Blackstone ranks among United Way of New York City’s top 25 corporate partners.  Blackstone, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation and the firm’s employees contribute extensive resources to support United Way’s programs each year—giving more than $1 million in 2010.

“Blackstone has been a long-time supporter of the important work of United Way, and we were pleased to achieve 100% participation from our senior partners and 90% participation from all employees this year,” said Laurence Tosi, accepting on behalf of Blackstone.  “Blackstone has a strong culture of giving back to the community through volunteerism and service, which includes year-round involvement in the work of United Way of New York City.” 

A leader in corporate philanthropy, Deloitte has invested millions in the future of the nation’s youth through its work with United Way. The organization has a longstanding commitment to education and is working to improve educational systems nationwide by supporting sustainable programs that create a strong foundation for learning, keep kids on track to graduation, and open new doors to higher education. In the Greater New York City area alone, Deloitte employees contributed more than $3.8 million in charitable giving through United Way in 2010.

“Deloitte and United Way have been working together for more than 25 years at the national level, and I only expect this dynamic relationship to grow even more, ” said Barry Salzberg.  “With United Way and other partners, Deloitte is committed to making the dream of college come true for more kids in our inner cities, all while strengthening  the talent pipeline and U.S. competitiveness in the process.”

Photos of the event are available as of 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 18 at: http://www.unitedwaynyc.org/pressphotos/gg2011.php

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) creates, leads and supports strategic initiatives that seek to achieve lasting city-wide improvements in the education, income stability, and health of New Yorkers. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.