For many children on Long Island, the chance to achieve greatness eludes them because they are not prepared to succeed in school both academically and socially. Many of Long Island’s children and youth face challenges stemming from low family income, living in foster care or even facing homelessness. All of these factors can contribute to a lack of family stability and in turn, an unsuccessful educational experience.
Together, United Way and it's community partners work to ensure a quality start for young, underserved children by improving basic literacy skills and helping at-risk youth succeed.
DREAMS for Youth Scholarship Fund
The DREAMS for Youth Scholarship Fund is a program that awards grants in the areas of Academics, Community Service, & Enrichment. These grants are awarded to students by students as the DREAMS for Youth Advisory Board, is comprised of grade 7th graders to college students that work under the guidance of United Way of Long Island Staff. Read More
ROBERT B. READ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
This scholarship fund is in memory of Robert B. Read, a native of Long Island (West Islip) and veteran broadcast journalist who served as senior producer of Inside Edition’s award-winning investigative unit and managing editor for the program’s overall coverage. Robert’s work ethic and leadership were incomparable. He was a mentor and role model to many and through this scholarship, his dedication to helping others along their career path will continue. This scholarship is designated for a Long Island high school senior who will be attending the University of Michigan. The days that both of Robert’s children graduated from the University of Michigan were some of the proudest of his life. Read More.
The Camilla G. Belser Memorial Scholarship Fund
In memory of Cammy, and her commitment to education and the insurance industry, The Long Island Insurance Community established the Camilla G. Belser Memorial Scholarship Fund through United Way of Long Island in her honor. The program offers a $2,500 annual renewable scholarship to a student who will be attending Nassau or Suffolk Community College. Read More
The Anthony J. Stupore Memorial Scholarship Fund
Scott Martella Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Patricia Michels Memorial Scholarship Fund
This Fund will provide academic scholarships to deserving young women attending YouthBuild who wish to pursue their dreams and aspirations by attending an accredited college, university or technical school. Read More
Stuff-A-Bus
The Stuff-A-Bus program provides students from low-income families with new school supplies, preparing them for their academic studies, building their self esteem and setting them up for success. Read More