YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES

Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.

It starts early.

It grows with opportunity.

And it continues when young people can see a future for themselves.

United Way works to help young people realize their full potential from early childhood through education and into the workforce.

Here on the Lakeshore, Childcare & Early Childhood Education and Early Literacy Development are two of United Way of the Lakeshore's three priority areas for 2026–2029.

But our commitment to youth doesn't stop there.

Across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties, we invest in community programs, lead and support local initiatives, connect families with resources, and create opportunities that help children and young people learn, grow, explore, and prepare for what's next.

START STRONG - CHILDCARE & EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

A child's earliest years lay the foundation for everything that follows. But families need access to quality, affordable childcare, and our communities need a strong childcare system to make that possible.

That's why Childcare & Early Childhood Education is a United Way of the Lakeshore priority.

We're working toward:

  • Increasing the number of licensed childcare slots available to families

  • Increasing access to childcare for families who need it

  • Improving childcare quality and strengthening the early childhood workforce

How We're Taking Action

Childcare Connections
United Way brings partners together to strengthen the local childcare system, identify barriers, and develop solutions that increase access for families.

CAMP
Through CAMP, United Way supports collaborative work focused on strengthening childcare and early childhood opportunities across our community.

Investing in Childcare & Early Childhood Education

United Way of the Lakeshore also invests in local programs working to strengthen childcare and early childhood education across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.

Our Community Investment partners are working toward shared outcomes that increase childcare availability, improve access for families, and strengthen the quality of care available in our communities.

BUILD STRONG READERS - EARLY LITERACY DEVELOPMENT

Learning to read is one of the most important building blocks in a child's life. Strong early literacy skills help children succeed in school and build a foundation for lifelong learning.

Yet too many children across the Lakeshore are reaching important educational milestones without the reading skills they need.

That's why Early Literacy Development is a United Way of the Lakeshore priority.

We're working toward:

  • Helping children reach important early literacy milestones

  • Increasing the amount of time families spend reading together

  • Increasing literacy-rich activities in the home

  • Connecting children with additional reading support when they need it

How We're Taking Action

Early Childhood Literacy Program
Trained volunteer mentors work one-on-one with young students who need additional support building foundational reading skills.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library | Oceana County
Children enrolled in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library receive a free, age-appropriate book mailed directly to their home each month from birth until age five, helping families build home libraries and make reading part of everyday life.

Investing in Early Literacy Development

United Way of the Lakeshore invests in local programs helping children build the literacy skills and experiences they need to succeed.

Our Community Investment partners are working toward shared outcomes that strengthen early literacy development, encourage reading between children and caregivers, and increase literacy-rich activities at home.

EXPLORE WHAT'S POSSIBLE

Young people need opportunities to discover their interests, experience new things, and imagine where their education could take them.

United Way helps create experiences that connect students and families with learning beyond the classroom.

STEM Parent Program
Connects families with hands-on opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and math while helping parents and caregivers support their children's learning and curiosity.

College Exposure Program
Gives students opportunities to experience college environments, learn about postsecondary pathways, and begin seeing higher education as something within their reach.

PREPARE FOR WHAT'S NEXT

Education is also about helping young people build confidence, develop skills, explore careers, and successfully transition into adulthood.

United Way works alongside education and workforce partners to connect young people with experiences that help prepare them for their next step.

Jobs for Michigan's Graduates
Supports young people as they develop the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed in education, employment, and life.

Summer Work Experience Program
In partnership with West Michigan Works! and Michigan Works! West Central, young people gain exposure to the workplace and opportunities to build real-world employment skills.

MiCareerQuest
Students explore career pathways and connect with employers and industries through hands-on career exploration experiences.

MANY PATHWAYS. ONE GOAL.

From a child's first book to their first job, opportunities along the way can shape what's possible for their future.

United Way of the Lakeshore is working alongside families, schools, childcare providers, employers, nonprofits, volunteers, and community partners to help more children and young people have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

LEARN. VOLUNTEER. INVEST. GET INVOLVED.