United Way of Central Minnesota Earns Grant, Rare Recognition

(KNSI) – The United Way of Central Minnesota is partnering with the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers organization to improve educational programming for when school is not in session.

21CCLC is giving the local nonprofit chapter more than $820,000 over the next three years. It will help students at St. Cloud’s Apollo and Tech High Schools and North Junior High. The grant also benefits Sauk Rapids-Rice High School students.

Over 20 regional partners will combine on a wealth of programs for afterschool hours or during vacation. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant aims to improve college readiness and emphasize fundamentals like math and reading.

Programming for the area’s youngest students is also being recognized. United Way of Central Minnesota’s Preschool 4 Success caught the eye of StriveTogether, which led to the organization’s addition to the Systems Change network.

StriveTogether singled out the Exploring Potential Interests and Careers tools, which help students figure out the professions that are a good fit for them and what it takes to get there, as another initiative worthy of recognition.

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