“Rachael is a proven, mission-driven leader with a track record of strengthening organizations and delivering impact,” said Leslie Oliver, United Way of San Diego County Board Chair. “Her commitment to education and economic mobility, paired with her ability to engage volunteers, partners, and donors, makes her the right leader to help advance United Way’s work across San Diego County.”

Orose most recently served as the Executive Director of Words Alive, a San Diego-based nonprofit that connects children, teens, and families to the power of reading. In that role, she strengthened volunteer engagement, financial sustainability, and collaborative community partnerships to help more young people develop a lifelong love of learning.

“I’m honored to join United Way of San Diego County and to work alongside our staff, board, partners, volunteers, and supporters,” said Orose. “United Way has a powerful legacy of bringing people together to create real change. I’m excited to build on that momentum, advancing transformative education and economic mobility initiatives that ensure opportunity for all San Diegans. Too many individuals and families are struggling, and I wholeheartedly believe that, united, we have the power to change that.”

Originally from Michigan, Orose holds a graduate degree in public and nonprofit administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and an undergraduate degree in the same field from Grand Valley State University. Her leadership experience spans national, regional, and local organizations focused on expanding resources and pathways for children and families in low-income and historically disinvested communities.

Prior to her work in San Diego, Orose held senior leadership roles, including Vice President at The Molina Foundation (Long Beach, CA), Manager of Corporate Strategy at the American Red Cross (Washington, D.C.), and Senior Director at First Book (Washington, D.C.), along with numerous positions at community-based organizations in New York and Michigan.

As President and CEO, Orose will lead United Way of San Diego County’s efforts to strengthen communities through initiatives that support educational success and economic mobility, helping more individuals and families thrive today and for generations to come.

“Leading United Way of San Diego County has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Nancy L. Sasaki, outgoing President and CEO. “Rachael is an exceptional leader with a deep commitment to education and opportunity. I’m confident she will build on United Way’s momentum, strengthen our partnerships across the region, and help drive even greater impact for children and families throughout San Diego County.”

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. As a trusted community leader, UWSD works collaboratively with diverse communities across San Diego County, identifying areas of greatest need and working tirelessly to make a meaningful impact. Today, in partnership with schools, businesses, policymakers, nonprofits, and government agencies, United Way of San Diego County harnesses collective strengths to address longstanding disparities, so all San Diegans have the resources and support needed to achieve educational success and financial stability.

The nonprofit organization’s current initiatives focus on bridging gaps in the community, from early childhood literacy support to high school career readiness programs, as well as providing economic resources for individuals and families in need. United Way of San Diego County believes that united with community partners, we can forge pathways to opportunity, ensuring that all San Diegans can thrive at every stage of life. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The post United Way of San Diego County Names Rachael Orose as President and CEO appeared first on United Way of San Diego County.

UNITED WAY OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY CEO NANCY L. SASAKI ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

SAN DIEGO, CALIF. – MAY 28, 2025 – Following a distinguished seven-year tenure as CEO of the United Way of San Diego County (UWSD), the organization’s board of directors announced today that Nancy L. Sasaki will retire at the end of the year. A regional search for a new CEO will begin soon.

Serving for more than four decades in the nonprofit sector, Sasaki’s impact on the San Diego region has been profound. Since beginning her nonprofit journey in 1981 and moving to San Diego in 1990, she has been a tireless advocate for equitable access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

“Leading United Way of San Diego County has been a full-circle experience,” said Sasaki. “I started as a health educator and now find myself influencing education and economic mobility across our region. It’s been an incredible honor to work alongside such passionate staff, board members, and community partners to improve lives every day.”

During her time at UWSD, Sasaki strengthened the organization’s focus on education and economic mobility, launched key initiatives such as United for Literacy, STEAM-to-Careers, and SparkPoint, and expanded the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition to 45 partner organizations to provide tax support to families in need. Her leadership has helped UWSD become a collaborative, mission-driven force in San Diego County.

“Nancy has led with integrity, heart, and vision during a time when organizations are competing for attention and resources,” said Leslie Oliver, chair of the UWSD Board of Directors. “Because of her leadership, United Way of San Diego County is well-positioned to build on its momentum and continue driving meaningful change in our community through collaboration and volunteerism.”

Sasaki will serve until December 31, 2025. The UWSD Board has formed a search committee and will launch a regional search for Sasaki’s successor. Details about the search and application process will be posted soon at www.uwsd.org.

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and community-based strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives. 

Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children’s success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families. United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community. United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans county-wide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Ann Marie Price
Scatena Daniels Communications
annmarie@scatenadaniels.com

The post United Way Of San Diego County Ceo Nancy L. Sasaki Announces Retirement appeared first on United Way of San Diego County.

San Diego – Feb. 14, 2025 – To help close the gaps in education and financial security in our community, local nonprofit United Way of San Diego County (UWSD) will launch its first-ever “Live United. Give United.” peer-to-peer fundraising campaign starting March 1.

Through this 31-day fundraiser, UWSD aims to raise $50,000 to support its programs, which serve over 53,000 children, individuals, and families across San Diego County each year—helping them achieve educational success and financial security. Through UWSD’s education and economic mobility initiatives, the organization offers comprehensive, community-focused support to help children, individuals, and families thrive. Its program United for Literacy provides young students with essential literacy resources, while the STEAM-to-Careers Afterschool Program introduces students to high-demand STEAM careers. UWSD’s SparkPoint program offers money management workshops and personalized financial coaching, and the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition delivers free tax preparation services that helps San Diegans get essential money back through tax credits. Additionally, Bank On expands access to free, reliable banking options. Together, these programs create pathways to educational success and financial security.

“With the uncertainty many nonprofit organizations face around federal funding and support, United Way of San Diego County remains committed to our community partners and the individuals and families we serve,” says UWSD President and CEO Nancy L. Sasaki. “For over a century, we have been a steadfast source of support, focusing on education and economic mobility. To continue our mission, we call on the community to help us reach our fundraising goal so we can continue making a difference for local children, individuals, and families who need the support to build pathways to success.”

Ways to Participate in “Live United. Give United.”:

• Start your own fundraising page: Individuals can show their support by creating a fundraising page and sharing the campaign with their friends, families and colleagues, encouraging them to donate.
• Make a donation: Individuals interested in supporting UWSD can make a direct donation to the campaign.
• Become a corporate partner: Corporate partners will receive a dedicated fundraising page for employee participation, along with their company logo featured on the official website.
• Host a fundraising event: Host an event and donate the proceeds to the campaign.

Every dollar makes a difference to help UWSD drive transformative initiatives that break down education and economic barriers in our community. Supporting the “Live United. Give United.” fundraising campaign will amplify the organization’s community impact with every donation creating a ripple of change across the region.

At Escondido High School, Angie Tran was set on becoming a dentist—until she joined

UWSD’s STEAM-to-Careers program. This afterschool initiative exposed her to diverse STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) career paths, opening doors she never imagined. Over 12 weeks, Angie explored workshops and mentorships, gaining clarity about her future. A pivotal SDG&E field trip sparked a passion for earth and space sciences, steering her away from dentistry.

Her dedication led to the DREAM with STEAM summer program, acceptance into prestigious programs at MIT, and a transformative NASA internship where she designed a lunar base and learned to code in Python. Today, Angie continues pursuing internships with NASA, envisioning a future in aerospace while giving back to her San Diego community.

“STEAM-to-Careers has been a valuable part of my high school experience,” Angie shared. “Without it, I may have never realized my interests in space science or pursued opportunities like my NASA internship, which led to some of my favorite memories ever. I am forever grateful to STEAM-to-Careers for allowing me to discover my passion for space.”

Contributions to UWSD’s “Live United. Give United.” campaign help students like Angie discover and achieve their dreams while ensuring programs like STEAM-to-Careers continue inspiring more students across San Diego County to dream bigger and reach further.

For more information on UWSD, its fundraising campaign and corporate partnership opportunities visit giveunitedsd.org or connect with Amelia Hartley at amelia.hartley@uwsd.org or 858-636-4154.

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and community-based strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives.

Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children’s success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax

assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families. United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community. United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans county-wide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

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Media Contact:

Ann Marie Price
Scatena Daniels Communications
annmarie@scatenadaniels.com
(Not for public distribution)

The post United Way of San Diego County to Launch First-Ever ‘Live United. Give United.’ Community Campaign Beginning on March 1, February 14, 2025 appeared first on United Way of San Diego County.

Southeast San Diego, enhancing financial security for local families through personalized education and assistance with setting achievable financial goals.

San Diego – Dec. 23, 2024 – United Way of San Diego County (UWSD) is excited to announce the launch of its SparkPoint initiative, a program providing one-on-one financial coaching services, workshops, and resources to local individuals and families to achieve financial security in North County and Southeast San Diego.

Bridging the Financial Education Divide

Startling statistics from United Way of California’s The Real Cost Measure in California

2023 report found the amount of income required to meet basic needs in the San Diego County region is significantly higher than what the average household makes a year, demonstrating a critical need to address regional financial insecurity. According to the report, 36% of all San Diego County households are below the Real Cost Measure despite 97% of households having at least one working adult. With economic mobility being one of UWSD’s core pillars, and the increasing need for long-lasting solutions to assist underrepresented communities achieve financial security, the nonprofit saw the launch of SparkPoint as a powerful, transformative solution to begin bridging this financial gap in our region.

The goal of UWSD’s SparkPoint initiative is to provide low- and middle-income San Diego County individuals and families with financial coaching services and connect them to resources to help them reach their financial goals. SparkPoint clients who receive financial coaching through the program are supported in establishing and working toward personal goals such as increasing their income, decreasing their debt, improving their credit score, and growing their savings. The initiative utilizes a family-centered coaching model, which builds on client strengths and puts the client in the driver’s seat. The coaching model is grounded in the belief that families are capable, resourceful, and whole, and with guidance from the SparkPoint team, meeting financial goals is possible. Program participants will progress through financial stages, transitioning from crisis to vulnerability, then from vulnerability to stability, and ultimately from stability to prosperity.

“At United Way of San Diego County, we empower community members facing financial challenges by providing guidance, connecting them to resources, and showing them they were capable all along,” says Nancy L. Sasaki, President and CEO. “Through collaboration with a strong network of community partners and funders, our SparkPoint program aims to help individuals and families achieve financial security, independence, and success in meeting their goals.”

SparkPoint Initiative Builds Pathways to Financial Success

Founded by United Way Bay Area and adopted successfully by United Way Orange County, the SparkPoint program is a proven model for addressing economic inequities and building pathways to financial success. With the guidance of these two organizations, UWSD successfully launched the model in San Diego County in 2024 to empower families and communities to make sustainable financial decisions and work toward their financial goals. Generous support from Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, SDG&E, and PNC Bank helped bring the family-centered financial coaching model to life, recognizing its transformative potential.

SparkPoint’s success is rooted in providing comprehensive services, particularly in the areas of financial goals, career support, and workforce development. While SparkPoint coaching is open to the public and not income-restricted, the mission is to focus on lowand middle-income families that are served by our community partners. By collaborating closely with various partner organizations, this approach provides holistic support, which gives SparkPoint clients the best chances of achieving both financial and career-related goals. The various community-based organizations that partner with UWSD on one-on-one financial coaching include Lifeline Community Services, Interfaith Community Services, Interfaith Shelter Network, Operation HOPE, Logan Heights CDC, Community HousingWorks, and Chicano Federation.

Currently, SparkPoint is operating in two regional locations, North County and Southeast San Diego, as these regions have historically been under-resourced, contributing to adverse outcomes for community members. Escondido and Southeast San Diego illustrate the deep-seated impact of long-standing societal inequities and systemic barriers. In Escondido, 26.6% of residents have a Bachelor’s Degree or higher, and the employment rate is just over 63%.. Similarly, in Southeast San Diego, a history of disinvestment and limited access to quality education, affordable housing, and stable employment opportunities contribute to a 7.7% unemployment rate. Currently, 13.4% of the population in Southeast San Diego lives below the federal poverty line, including over 15% of families with children under 18, showing how these challenges disproportionately affect families. These statistics reflect the enduring lack of access to necessary social support systems, such as equitable educational pathways and job training programs, which perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit economic mobility for generations. Addressing these inequities requires focused investment in resources and programs to create sustainable pathways toward opportunity and financial stability for all.

By establishing the SparkPoint program in Southeast San Diego, UWSD will give families the necessary resources to be self-sufficient, as they have consistently been impacted by economic insecurities at disproportionate levels. Additionally, the program is looking to support families in Southeast San Diego that were affected during the January 2024 floods, which left many residents displaced and burdened with financial uncertainty while they are working to rebuild their homes and their lives. SparkPoint San Diego County will be addressing these challenges by providing tailored workshops that address the unique experiences of flood survivors. We believe that by leveraging trusted community-based organizations with SparkPoint financial coaching, we will be better equipped to serve the community while amplifying our impact.

Uniting Partners and Funders to Serve Under-Resourced San Diegans

In addition to one-on-one financial coaching, the SparkPoint initiative also offers Money

Management Workshops throughout the year. In collaboration with partners such as U.S. Bank, California Coast Credit Union, and Credit.org, the workshops provide education on relevant financial topics to empower participants to make informed financial decisions and improve their livelihood. By educating families on topics to improve finances, they are also able to pass this knowledge on to their children to set them up for success and break generational cycles. A variety of topics are covered during the workshops, including budget management, saving tips, credit and debt management, purchasing a vehicle, safe banking options, and more.

“SparkPoint is crucial to our community, especially in today’s challenging economy, where even those not living in poverty must be cautious with their finances. It’s vital to equip our community with the skills to manage their money effectively, not only to address current concerns but also to pass on generational knowledge and habits to their children. These services benefit both clients and staff, making conversations about finances less intimidating and more supportive, fostering a space for understanding and positive change,” says Jessica Elliott-Pomerenke, Program Manager of Social Services at Interfaith Community Services.

Building a strong SparkPoint referral network is essential for equipping families with the tools they need to achieve their goals. This progress has been made possible through the collaboration of SparkPoint network providers like the UWSD-led BankOn San Diego Coalition, MAAC, and the San Diego Financial Literacy Center. The program’s launch and expansion were fueled by the vital support of funders, including Wells Fargo, SDG&E, U.S. Bank, and PNC Bank, whose contributions have been pivotal in empowering individuals and families on their path to financial stability. Learn more about the SparkPoint program at uwsd.org/sparkpoint.

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and community-based strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives.

Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children’s success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families. United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community. United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans county-wide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

Media Contacts:

Ann Marie Price
Scatena Daniels Communications annmarie@scatenadaniels.com
(Not for public distribution)

The post United Way of San Diego County Unveils SparkPoint Initiative to Boost Financial Security in Our Region, December 23, 2024 appeared first on United Way of San Diego County.

San Diego, Calif. – Oct. 9, 2024 – United Way of San Diego County, 211 San Diego, Dreams for Change, and the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition announced that a total of $38.9 million federal and state tax refunds were returned to local families and individuals during this year’s tax season. Through the collaboration of 45 partner organizations, the San Diego County EITC Coalition alleviates hefty tax-filing expenses by providing eligible San Diego County taxpayers with free tax preparation assistance while also helping to identify eligible tax credits.

“We’re proud to once again work with our Coalition partners in helping qualifying families and individuals in San Diego County with their tax preparation and assist them in claiming the credits they worked hard to earn. We’d like to emphasize that these vital resources are available at zero cost to qualifying low- and middle-income San Diego County residents. As a unified Coalition, we continue our education and outreach each year so that eligible tax credits aren’t left unclaimed,” says Nancy L. Sasaki, President and CEO of United Way of San Diego County. “The heartfelt stories we hear from clients each year show how they’ve seen the benefits for themselves in ways that are more significant than you can imagine. Their returns often make the difference in getting through one month to the next.”

Inflation, and the rising cost of groceries, gas, and other basic necessities have placed a huge financial burden on San Diegans who are already struggling to get by in the country’s most expensive city. Needless to say, the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which help low-to-moderate income individuals and families reduce the taxes they owe or increase their refund, enable families to put more money toward vital expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries. Taxpayers who qualify can also receive hundreds or even thousands of additional dollars back on their taxes with the state CalEITC and the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC). This year, many San Diego County residents, particularly in underserved communities, faced significant financial hardship due to the devastating January storms and subsequent flooding, which left hundreds of families displaced. For this reason, it became crucial to return as much money as possible to our community’s taxpayers.

The EITC program is essential to alleviating some of the urgent financial burdens many San Diegans are experiencing and giving a financial boost to those facing hardship. Each year, the no-cost tax filing services provided by the Coalition help clients claim credits and get more money back to build a pathway toward financial stability. This year, the Coalition completed 48.8k federal and state tax returns, saving taxpayers over $9.2 million in tax preparation fees which typically cost about $350 per return.

“Tens of thousands of people rely on 2-1-1 each month, 24 hours a day, for help with critical needs like rent, healthcare, food, utilities, and more. By screening callers for eligibility for free tax preparation services and educating them about the CalEITC and other tax credits, we’re helping them keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets at a time when they need it most,” says William York, President and CEO, of 211 San Diego.

The Coalition has seen a consistent increase in the number of clients served each year, thanks to the dedicated efforts of participating organizations, highlighting their commitment to reaching and assisting diverse and underserved populations. The Coalition has made significant strides in increasing awareness and access to our services among hard-to-reach communities, including individuals whose primary language is not English, those facing accessibility challenges, and people without a Social Security Number.

“We are committed to continuing to make our free tax services accessible to San Diegans. Dreams for Change offers locations countywide, as well as virtual and in-person services in multiple languages, self-filing options, as well as transportation through 211 San Diego. In the past year, the Coalition has expanded and now operates 29 tax sites throughout all of San Diego County. We’re proud to be part of the Coalition, and to help individuals and families get money back through the EITC which is considered one of the largest and most powerful anti-poverty programs in the nation,” says Teresa Smith, CEO of Dreams for Change.

With funding from the County Health and Human Services Agency’s Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities (HSEC) and other sources, Dreams for Change provides critical tax site coordination and training services.

To further enhance access during this tax season, the Coalition implemented several key initiatives:

• Educational materials were provided in 20 languages.
• Both virtual and in-person appointments were available.
• Increased mobile tax sites were launched to help underserved and hard-to-reach

populations.

• Transportation vouchers were offered to ensure clients could reach our tax sites.
• Assistance was provided in obtaining and filing with an Individual Tax

Identification Number (ITIN) for those without a Social Security Number. These initiatives underscore the San Diego County EITC Coalition’s dedication to serving all community members, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access vital tax services.

According to 211 San Diego, there was a 54 percent increase in new families and individuals screened to benefit from the free tax services offered by the San Diego County EITC Coalition this year. The eligibility requirement was increased this tax season from $60,000 to $64,000 a year, to account for rising inflation.

“This is my third year getting my taxes prepared at a Dreams for Change tax site, which I was referred to by 211 San Diego. I really recommend these services for anybody in the community because they’re free and prompt. The questions the tax preparer asks are easy and the representatives are helpful. It’s a reliable service with various recreational centers and other locations in the community,” says Aja Fountain, a returning client. She shared that the money she saved and received back in tax credits through the free tax assistance service will allow her to shop for her daughter’s school Supplies.

This year, the Internal Revenue Service extended the tax-filing deadline for San Diego residents to June 17, 2024, to account for those affected by severe storms and flooding that began in January 2024. Individuals who have not yet filed this year may still qualify for a tax-filing extension. For more information on how to get free tax assistance, individuals are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit myfreetaxes.org.

About the Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition

For over 23 years, United Way of San Diego County has led the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition, offering free tax preparation assistance and education about life-changing tax credits to local families earning a low-to-moderate-income.

The Coalition is made up of over 40 collaborative partner organizations, and together, these organizations implement critical and complementary services, including free tax preparation assistance services, technical assistance for self-filing, outreach & education, and capacity-building support that help San Diego County families maximize their refund via the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and other credits.

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and community-based strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives.

Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children’s success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families. United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community. United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans county-wide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

About 211 San Diego

211 San Diego is a local nonprofit organization, connecting people to the community and health services they need. Its mission is to seamlessly connect people to resources, and partner with the community to transform how people access help. 211 San Diego manages a database of free or low-cost services available in San Diego County and operates a multilingual contact center with trained staff who use this database to help those who call 2-1-1 to find available services. Learn more about 211 San Diego by visiting 211sandiego.org and following @211San Diego or @211SD on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

About Dreams for Change

Dreams For Change’s mission is to respond to the needs of the community by creating innovative and cost-effective programs that empower and stabilize the lives of underserved families and individuals. Supporting people on their path to stability is a multi-step process. Dreams for Change (DFC) is modeled around 3 Pathways to building financial and housing stability. These pathways are supportive services, access to employment, and increasing financial health. DFC accomplishes this work through case management, safety, financial education, ensuring individuals receive their tax credits, and workforce training. Asset building strategies are core to all the services we provide and guide our work in addressing homeless and poverty issues.

About County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency

The County-HHSA is dedicated to promoting the health, safety and well-being of the community. The County works to enhance the quality of life for San Diego residents and is committed to engaging with the community through partnerships, outreach efforts and feedback. By collaborating with local organizations, stakeholders and residents, the County strives to ensure that services are responsive to the needs of the community. HHSA provides Community Services Block Grant funding for the San Diego EITC Coalition. The grant is administered by the Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities (HSEC) in support of the – Community Action Partnership’s efforts to provide economic opportunities that help low-income residents have an opportunity to be self-sufficient.

Media Contacts

Ann Marie Price
Scatena Daniels
annmarie@scatenadaniels.com
(Not for public distribution)

The post $38.9 million in federal and state taxes returned to San Diego taxpayers during 2024 tax season, October 9, 2024 appeared first on United Way of San Diego County.

San Diego – Sept. 4, 2024 – United Way of San Diego County is preparing for a special night of impactful fundraising to advance its transformative work in education and economic mobility. The organization is hosting its signature fundraising event, “An Evening of Wonder”, on Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Farmer & The Seahorse (10996 Torreyana Rd., San Diego, CA 92121) in the Torrey Pines area. “An Evening of Wonder” will bring together hundreds of community members, philanthropists, and local business leaders for an unforgettable night to help build a stronger San Diego County community. The event is more than an opportunity for a fun night out —it’s a chance for San Diego County community members to be a catalyst for change. The proceeds from this event will empower United Way of San Diego County’s mission to break down inequities in our region by advancing vital initiatives in education and economic mobility.

Attendees will enjoy delightful drinks and hors d’oeuvres, interactive activities, a silent auction, and the opportunity to mingle with San Diego County’s most prominent changemakers. From science displays, hands-on games, a photo booth, and other surprise activities, attendees are invited to participate in interactive experiences that will spark moments of joy and imagination. Additionally, the event will feature a powerful program that highlights the tangible impact of United Way of San Diego County’s work that attendees are helping to support. The evening will also include a special recognition of this year’s outstanding community partners, whose contributions have been instrumental in driving positive change.

“We are thrilled to announce our ‘An Evening of Wonder’ fundraising event, which marks a significant step in advancing our mission to uplift San Diego County through our education and economic mobility work,” says United Way of San Diego County President and CEO Nancy L. Sasaki. “The funds raised will directly support our work in the community to ensure that all children, individuals, and families have the support they need to achieve educational success and financial security, laying the groundwork for a brighter future for all San Diegans. We are raising critical funds to sustain our ongoing work while providing our guests the opportunity to have a fun night out to reconnect with their inner childlike spirit.”

The nonprofit aims to raise $250,000 through this year’s event to help make a lasting difference and build a stronger, more resilient community for all.

Early-bird ticket sales for “An Evening of Wonder” start at $149 through Sept. 22.
Regular-priced tickets are $199 beginning Sept. 23. Tickets can be purchased online at uwsd.org/wonder2024. For sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can contact United Way of San Diego County’s Director of External Engagement Amelia Hartley at amelia.hartley@uwsd.org or call 858-636-4154.

Event Details

“An Evening of Wonder” Fundraiser
Presented by United Way of San Diego County
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Farmer & The Seahorse
10996 Torreyana Rd.,
San Diego, CA 92121

Individual Tickets: $149 if purchased before Sept. 22; $199 beginning Sept. 23
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit uwsd.org/wonder2024.
Reserved Seating for ten and two bottles of sparkling wine during the program: $1,500 before Sept. 22; $2,000 beginning Sept. 23.

About United Way of San Diego County

For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and community-based strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives.

Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children’s success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families. United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community. United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans county-wide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

Media Contacts

Ann Marie Price
Scatena Daniels Communications
annmarie@scatenadaniels.com

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