COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
Programs Funded
Initiatives Funded

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
      2-1-1
     Full Circle Juvenile Justice
     Full Circle Healthy Marriage
     Full Circle Substance Abuse Prevention
     Success by 6
    Community Warmth
    Teen Pregnancy Prevention
    Health Care for All

OTHER STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES
  Community Report Card
    Emergency Needs/Special Response
    Teen Advisory Panel

The goal of Community Impact work is to produce lasting changes in the community that address the root causes of problems. Rather than continuing to feed the hungry, can we prevent people from needing to request food assistance? Rather than treating or incarcerating drug abusers, can we address those underlying factors that cause youth and adults to begin using drugs in the first place?

This work is difficult and complex, but United Ways across the country have proven that it can be done. Our United Way utilizes many strategies to achieve Community Impact. These include public policy advocacy, our improved Community Investment process, grant writing, developing initiatives around specific issues, convening and participating in task forces, and working with traditional and nontraditional partners including business, education, government, health and human service providers, media, community members, and faith-based and neighborhood organizations. All of this work is guided by a few basic principles:

Focus on the most pressing community needs
Ensure we are accountable for every dollar
Engage as many partners as possible, to maximize results
Explore collaboration as a way to minimize waste or inefficiencies
Empower our volunteers to make the best possible decisions for our community

The following detailed information provides more information about Community Investment. Community Investment is what United Way is best known for – raising and distributing funds to local nonprofit organizations. Following a description of our improved process, you will find a list of all currently-funded programs. Then we discuss our emerging work with Community Initiatives, which are proving to be highly effective means of achieving Impact. Please keep in mind that this work constantly evolves. As new strategies emerge and community needs change, we are committed to adjusting our Community Impact approach to best meet those needs. We will also keep this site updated as our Initiatives make progress and our program partners report their successes; please check back often and use the box on the left of our Home Page to quickly jump to those that most interest you.

Community Investment

One of the ways the United Way of Jackson County tackles Community Impact is through a process called Community Investment. The word “investment” aptly describes a concerted effort by volunteers and staff to use United Way donations and resources - including dollars, volunteers and in-kind services - in a manner that will achieve maximum improvement in the lives of Jackson County residents. United Way’s Community Investment dollars fund both programs and initiatives.

Vision Council Funding

A primary component of Community Investment is our Vision Councils. These are groups of impartial volunteers convened by the United Way for one purpose: to invest the dollars raised by the United Way in the most needed and effective human service programs.

The Vision Council members study their Council’s specific target population and educate themselves about the needs and the services available to that population in Jackson County. There are five Vision Councils organized around the following human life cycles - Children, Youth, Adults, Families, and Seniors. Nonprofit agencies that submit proposals to the Vision Councils must demonstrate how their program(s) align with the mission statements and objectives of the Vision Councils. The Vision Councils determine which programs to fund, and distribute their share of community funds accordingly among the applicants.

The Vision Councils are “supervised” by the Community Investment Cabinet; a volunteer board that establishes priorities based on community needs data, apportions funds among Vision Councils and initiatives, and continuously evaluates the Community Investment system. This past spring, the United Way board approved received and approved Vision Council funding recommendations via the Investment Cabinet for the current three-year funding cycle, which began July 1, 2006.

On their applications, each program must clearly state the types of improvements their clients will make as a result of their services, and how they will measure that progress (we call those “outcomes.”) Every six months, those funded programs furnish reports detailing their progress. The Councils review these progress reports, provide constructive feedback and consider funding adjustments. Vision Councils can reduce funding to programs that are not performing up to expectations, and can increase funding to strongly-performing programs if funds are available. Funding can also be adjusted based on yearly Community Campaign revenue.

Programs Funded

Emergency Services American Red Cross
Provides short-term disaster relief and assistance in the form of shelter, food, clothing, and other emergency services, and emergency support and communication links between members of the armed forces and their families in Jackson County.

Domestic Violence Program AWARE, Inc.
Provides emergency shelter, 24 hour crisis intervention, individual and group counseling, and advocacy to victims of domestic violence and their children; Provides community education on domestic violence.

Sexual Assault Program AWARE, Inc.
Strives to eliminate sexual violence through community education, systems change, and comprehensive services for sexual assault survivors, including counseling, emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis intervention and initial medical care.

Bigs in School Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County
In school, one hour per week, one-to-one mentoring for youth referred to Bigs In School who are in need of positive adult role models - referrals are based on behavior problems, social problems, school attendance & tardiness.

Community-Based Mentoring Big Brothers Big Sisters
of Jackson County
One-to-one mentoring program based on the interests of both participants, which establishes long-term relationships through recruitment, screening, training, matching and oversight of volunteer mentors and youth.

Family Care Program Catholic Charities of Jackson
Provides a broad range of mental health services to adults and families including prevention groups, comprehensive assessments, in-office and in-home treatment, short and long term treatment and education.

Kid Care Program Catholic Charities of JacksonIncludes a broad spectrum of mental health services for youth, including treatment of child abuse and neglect, domestic violence, and Prevention Services

Respite Care Catholic Charities of Jackson
Provides short-term, low-cost, in-home relief for caregivers of elderly homebound Jackson County residents. This periodic relief allows the caretakers to complete necessary errands and return to their loved ones physically and mentally refreshed.

Retired Senior and Volunteer Program Catholic Charities of Jackson
Provides a "clearinghouse" through which seniors volunteer to help those in need in Jackson County. Currently 450 volunteers providing 75,000 volunteer hours per year.

Veterans Transportation Program Catholic Charities of Jackson
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program volunteers provide free transportation to Veterans needing medical and rehabilitation services, on an "as needed" basis.

Community Medication Assistance Plan Center for Family Health, Inc
Provides prescription assistance to Jackson County residents at 150% of poverty level and below, through sample medications, indigent drug program, of CFH purchased medication.

OB Advocacy Center for Family Health, Inc.
Minimize barriers for low-income women to accessing prenatal care & other services that impact birth outcomes, through education and assistance in navigating the heath care system.

Reach Out and Read Center for Family Health, Inc.
Promotes early literacy as a routine part of pediatric care through education, free book distribution and reading to children in the lobby.

Child Care Scholarships Child Care Network
Provides child care scholarships for low-income parents. Includes help with issues such as parenting, early childhood development and choosing quality care.

Early Truancy Intervention Council for the Prevention of
Child Abuse & Neglect
A family support program that addresses educational neglect – Early Truancy Intervention Case Managers work with referred families to correct absenteeism, provide referrals to appropriate community services, provide ongoing family support and intervention.

Community Education Council for the Prevention of
Child Abuse and Neglect
Provides information and education to the public, the community, professionals, parents, and children to raise awareness regarding prevention, recognition and reporting child abuse and neglect.

Community Education- Nurturing Parent Program
Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
The Nurturing Parent program emphasizes the importance of raising children in a warm, trusting and caring household. Classes are taught by trained facilitators and are separated by age group: parents of preschoolers, 5-12 year olds and parents of teenagers, with a parallel group for the children.

Breakout Drug Education Family Service & Children's Aid
Educates children about the short and long-term affects of drug use, how to identify and handle peer pressure and how to avoid high risk situations and make healthy choices.

Family Counseling Family Service & Children's Aid
Provides mental/behavioral health counseling on an individual, family and/or group basis on a sliding scale basis for those with limited resources.

Diversion/ Restoration Program Florence Crittenton Services
Provides services to court and community referred youth to prevent further prosecution and recidivism of at-risk juveniles, promote regular school attendance & improve familial relations.

Teen Father & Pregnancy Prevention Florence Crittenton Services
Support teen fathers through home visits, comprehensive assessment and service plan, case management, crisis assistance and pregnancy prevention/sex education groups.

Food Distribution Food Bank of South Central Michigan
The Food Bank of South Central Michigan maintains a hunger-relief network of member agencies, including 34 non-profit agencies operating feeding programs in Jackson County.

Youth Development Girl Scouts - Irish Hills Council
Program provides an accepting & nurturing environment where girls build character and skills for success in the real world.

Comprehensive Youth Development Great Sauk Trail Council,
Boy Scouts
Educational program for youth to develop good character traits, train in the responsibilities of citizenship, and develop personal fitness.

Volunteer Service & Recognition Habitat for Humanity
Provides low cost housing to low income families through the incorporation of volunteers who provide approximately 3000 volunteer hours per house.

Child Care Scholarships Jackson Child Care Center
A non-profit, fully licensed and accredited child care center, which provides a safe, healthy, quality childcare program at affordable prices for low-income families through child care scholarships.

Car Seat Rental Program Jackson County Health Dept
Provides low-cost car seats to Jackson County families, educates parents/caregivers on proper car seat use and installation, and educates the community about car seat safety.

Assisted Living Care for Senior Women Jackson Friendly Home Provides affordable assisted living to women over sixty years of age in a friendly, homelike atmosphere that encourages independence.

After School Art Education Jackson School of the Arts
Provides accessible art education to low & moderate income children, through on-site classes priced on a sliding fee scale, after school programs at school and community organizations and a week-long residential summer camp.

Assisted Living for Senior Gentlemen John George Home, Inc
Provides a safe, quality, affordable independent living setting for elderly gentlemen.

Legal Services Legal Services of South Central Michigan
Legal Services provides legal counsel, advice, and representation in critical civil (non-criminal) legal areas to low-income persons. Specializes in domestic cases, homeless prevention, and obtaining income and medical benefits for disabled persons.

After School Education Program Lily Missions Center
After school program, which provides assistance with homework, tutoring in problem subject areas, work in computer lab, development math and reading skills, and supervised recreational activity.

Emergency Needs The Salvation Army

Assists low-income families in emergency situations by assisting with food, emergency medical needs, rent/mortgage, shut off notices or heating needs for clients who have met with the Department of Human Services.

Community Initiatives

Initiatives are formed by groups of stakeholders around a specific community issue (e.g. early childhood development). These stakeholders examine the factors that influence the issue such as public attitudes, economic conditions, historical trends, media messages, health care system practices, educational system practices, system relationships, family characteristics, personal choices, neighborhood conditions, and private and public sector practices. After examining the research related to the community issue, factors that influence the issue, and current “best practices” in the field, the stakeholders work together to form outcomes and develop a strategic plan to address the problem. Strategies could include: developing and funding new or existing programs; public policy advocacy; grant writing; and collaboration among service providing agencies.

2-1-1

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Building a Coordinated Service Delivery System

United Way Staff Representative:
Bethany Timmons (517) 796-5123

The problem, issue, or need:
Many resources are available to help Jackson’s residents in need. The right service can be difficult to locate in the confusing “alphabet soup” of telephone directories, especially when an individual is facing barriers such as emotional crisis or illiteracy. The Federal Government recently reserved the 2-1-1 dialing shortcut for non-emergency information and referral services, and Jackson’s call center opened to the public in 2003. People dialing 2-1-1 from a land line anywhere in the county are connected at no charge to a specially trained operator who sifts through a database of thousands of services to help connect the caller with the help he or she needs.

History of the Initiative:
Prior to Jackson County 2-1-1, the Jackson County Health Department had a web-based directory called Access Jackson. Catholic Charities heard about 2-1-1 and convened a meeting of key community organizations to investigate bringing a call center to Jackson. Shortly after the first 2-1-1 meeting, Access Jackson’s web host went bankrupt and lost all of their electronic data. The Health Department decided to support 2-1-1 rather than recreate that service. United Way of Jackson County and LifeWays Community Mental Health agreed to jointly lead the project with support from many area organizations. In 2003, the information and referral service was launched with a seven-digit number, and by December of 2004 the service had received approval to operate with the three-digit 2-1-1 number. Callers simply could dial 2-1-1 from any landline in Jackson County to speak with an Information and Referral Specialist.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Community Action Agency, Michigan Works (County Commissioner), Department of Human Services, Department on Aging, Disability Connections, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Interfaith Shelter, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson District Library, Lifeways, Salvation Army, Summit Township Office, United Way of Jackson County.

Intended Results:

Create a comprehensive information and referral system that all residents in Jackson County will have access to.

Results Achieved:

All Jackson County residents have access to 2-1-1. Dial 2-1-1 from any landline or (517) 789-1211 from cell phones and speak with a information and referral Specialist.
Over 43,000 calls have been taken since 2-1-1 began operations. Ten percent of 2-1-1 callers are contacted by phone for follow-up. Callers consistently report high rates of satisfaction with the service they received. This year, 98% of callers surveyed reported satisfaction with services. In addition, 97% stated the resources they were given were helpful and 100% stated that they would call 2-1-1 again.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way operates as Jackson County 2-1-1’s fiscal agent. Staff invests significant time writing grants and collaborating at the state level to bring 2-1-1’s services to all counties in the state. United Way staff also chairs the Jackson County 2-1-1 Advisory Board.

Note: Some corporate phone systems may not recognize 2-1-1 calls without programming; contact your telephone representative if you cannot connect. When dialing from a cell phone, call (517) 789-1211.

Full Circle Juvenile Justice Initiative

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Promoting a Safer Community

United Way Staff Representative:
Scott Schmidt (517) 796-5130

The problem, issue, or need:
Juveniles commit crimes for a variety of reasons; factors such as poor educational attainment, child abuse/family dysfunction, substance abuse and a lack of adult involvement are proven contributors. While Jackson’s juvenile crime rate is not alarmingly high, a prevalence of those contributing factors places us at risk; a federal planning grant brought our community together to address those factors. Its goal is to ensure Jackson is a community where youth and families flourish, and where those youth who do commit crimes are dealt with appropriately.

History of the Initiative:
The initial goal of Full Circle was the creation of a 5-year Comprehensive Strategy plan to decrease juvenile crime and enhance community safety. At the request of the Juvenile Justice Coalition, and with its assistance, United Way brought over 130 community leaders and volunteers together to identify and systematically address prioritized community risk factors through prevention activities, and to develop a complete range of graduated sanctions for juvenile offenders.

Full Circle's Comprehensive Strategy began with a four-phased planning process that was created to help Jackson County develop a 5-year plan. The four phases are:

Mobilization: Engage every segment of the community including law enforcement, courts, corrections, schools, governmental agencies, social service agencies, businesses, civic organizations, parents and private citizens.
Assessment: Develop an inventory of resources for addressing juvenile problems, as well as identify gaps in resources, services, and programs. This information and data is provided to the community to help effectively coordinate prevention services.
Planning: The creation of a 5-year strategy which identifies and systematically addresses priority community risk factors through the development of a complete range of prevention and early intervention services and graduated sanctions programs for juvenile offenders.
Implementation: Development of systems and programs according to the 5-year Strategic Plan.

Click here to read the original Full Circle strategic plan
Throughout the Comprehensive Strategy Initiative, Full Circle has addressed ways to successfully implement the Balanced and Restorative Justice Philosophy (BARJ). BARJ is a philosophy based on the premise that repairing harm, reducing risk, building competency, and collaboration with the community offers the best promise for helping young people learn to lead productive lives.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Jackson County Youth Center, Family Court, Florence Crittenton Services, Juvenile Probation, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Family Services and Children’s Aid, Jackson County 2-1-1, Jackson County Department of Human Services, United Way of Jackson County, Integro LLC.

Intended Results:

Reduction in juvenile crime rates.
Reduction in youth substance abuse.
Improved educational attainment through truancy initiatives and mentoring.
Improved information for courts to use when sentencing juvenile offenders.
Development of a full continuum of sanctions so young offenders can be dealt with swiftly, appropriately and effectively, starting with enhanced diversion alternatives.

Results Achieved:
$1,138,398 has been brought into the community to implement the plan. For every dollar invested in the infrastructure of Full Circle, the community has received $6.20 in resources. The following are results achieved with these funds:

Creation of a “Social Work Triage” position to assess young offenders and make recommendations to the courts.
Development of the Mentoring Collaborative, a partnership benefiting all nonprofit mentoring services.
Development of two different truancy intervention programs.
Significant expansion of the Juvenile Diversion Program at Florence Crittenton Services.
Leveraged funding to develop the Reentry Program for youth being released from detention.
Collaboration and development of the Victim's Impact Panel.
Financial support for local programs including Girl Quest, Breakout Drug Education, First Time Offender Program, Children of Promise Excel, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Families and School Together, Peer Mentoring, 2-1-1, Creating Lasting Family Connections, Pride Respect Opportunity School for expelled youth.

Full Circle’s successes led two different funders to request its leadership in developing relevant initiatives for Jackson County. In early 2006 Full Circle began oversight of the community’s Healthy Marriage Initiative, and in summer 2006 it began coordination of the Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way has served as a convener for the Full Circle Initiative. United Way has a full time grant funded staff position dedicated to Full Circle.

Full Circle's Healthy Marriage Initiative

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Fostering Health and Well-Being Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally and Promoting a Safer Community

United Way Staff Representative:
Shelby Raines (517) 796-5135

The problem, issue, or need:
Marriage is an important decision, and a life-changing event. Several communities have organized initiatives to support those individuals contemplating marriage, engaged, or currently married . The data clearly shows that a coordinated initiative can reduce divorce rates and increase personal satisfaction. Jackson County’s divorce rate is 2% higher than the state average (Michigan Department of Community Health, 2003). Stakeholders (including human service providers, clergy, attorneys, and parents) who deal with the effects of broken or dysfunctional families have joined together to focus efforts on the root of the problems. .

History of the Initiative:
The Weatherwax Foundation approached United Way with a request to convene a community planning team for a Healthy Marriage Initiative. The Foundation funded this United Way lead nine-month planning process. The purpose of this planning process was to examine opportunities in Jackson County, to provide education, preparation, and enrichment activities in support of marriage.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:

Catholic Charities, Community Action Agency, Community Members, County National, Eden Family Counseling, Families First, Family Court, Family Services and Children’s Aid, Jackson County Commission (County Commissioner), Jackson County Intermediate School District, Florence Crittenton Services, Hymarks, Jackson County Youth Center, Lily Mission, Lutheran Social Services, Orbitform, Recovery Technologies, Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church, St. John Catholic Church, Trinity Wesleyan Church, United Church of Christ, United Way of Jackson County, Universalist Unitarian Church, Weatherwax Foundation, Westwinds Community Church.

Intended Results:

Explore the feasibility of maintaining a Healthy Marriage Initiative in Jackson County with the goal of strengthening marriages.

Results Achieved:
Utilizing Full Circle’s planning process, this community collaborative has analyzed data, catalogued existing services and identified gaps, and is now completing a thorough plan to support marital success in our community (the plan will be posted on this site soon). The plan will include pre-marital educational opportunities, essential skill-building activities (conflict resolution, financial planning, etc.), and new ways for the community to recognize and celebrate marriage. While working on the plan, it has also undertaken the following:

Sponsoring the Brown Bag Lunch Series, a monthly event that promotes the value of healthy marriages and families through continued education and discussion of relevant marriage topics.
Hosting the successful “Laugh Your Way To A Better Marriage” marriage strengthening weekend enjoyed by 500 people.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way convened the Healthy Marriage Initiative. United Way has a part-time grant funded staff person to coordinate the initiative.

Full Circle's Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Fostering Health and Well-Being Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally – Reducing Substance Abuse and Promoting a Safer Community

United Way Staff Representative:
Kelsey Winston (517) 796-5133

The problem, issue, or need:
The Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition has identified that alcohol, tobacco, and methamphetamine usage in Jackson County is a problem. In Jackson County, 8% of 6th graders, 23% of 8th graders and 41% of 10th graders have used alcohol at least once in the last 30 days. In addition, 4% of 6th graders, 14% of 8th graders, and 22% of 10th graders have used tobacco at least once in the last 30 days (2006, Search Institute). By 12th grade 81% Jackson County youth have used alcohol at least once and 59% of Jackson County youth have used cigarettes at least once (2004, Bach Harrison). According to the Jackson County Uniform Crime Report, in 2004 there were 1,102 DUI arrests, which is 696 arrests per 100,000 people in the county (Michigan State Police). This rate is 43% higher than the rate for the State of Michigan. In Jackson County, 1.1% of 8th graders, 1.4% of 10th graders, and 4.3% of 12th graders have reported using methamphetamine, a drug that was not present in Michigan only a few years ago (2004, Bach Harrison).

History of the Initiative:
The Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission is responsible for channeling public funding for substance abuse prevention activities to several Michigan counties. In the summer of 2006, Mid-South requested that United Way’s Full Circle initiative coordinate prevention planning activities in Jackson. Full Circle entered into a contract to employ a full time coordinator toward that end.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bridgeway Center of Foote Health System, Catholic Charities of Jackson, Family Services and Children’s Aid, Florence Crittenton Services, Jackson County Health Department, Jackson County Intermediate School District, LifeWays, United Way of Jackson County.

Intended Results:
The outcomes for FY 2007 are as follows:

Jackson County will continue to develop the capacity of the substance abuse prevention coalition.
Demonstrate sustained multi-sectoral coordination of planning and evaluation of substance abuse prevention efforts across Jackson County.
Collect and utilize local survey and archival data to assess substance abuse prevention needs, identify gaps in prevention services, focus Jackson County’s efforts on prioritizing needs and mobilize resources across the county.
Support evidenced based interventions that match identified needs of youth (10-17 years old) related to alcohol access and availability and community readiness to address alcohol needs.
Support evidenced based interventions that match identified needs related to tobacco and foster support from providers, workgroups, coalitions, and taskforces in the community.
Increase the number and accuracy of reports regarding methamphetamine labs, as well as increased community awareness of the growing issue and planned responses.
Collect substance use and other archival indicators concerning minor first time offenders in order to assess needs.

Results Achieved:

Convening of the Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, a countywide collaborative decision-making body of community members that plan and implement measures to prevent underage alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Jackson County.
The Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition secured Mid South Substance Abuse Commission funding for Children of Promise Excel (Big Brothers/Big Sisters) in the amount of $57,658 and funding for the Breakout Drug Education (Family Services and Children’s Aid) in the amount of $43,850.
Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition developed an implementation plan to impact substance abuse in Jackson County and received funding in the amount of $114,892 to carry out this plan in 2007. $25,000 of these funds go directly to the First Time Offender Program.
Working with law enforcement, first responders and the County to develop a system of computer mapping of all methamphetamine production and dump sites.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way has a full time staff member who coordinates the Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition.

Success by Six (SB6)

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Supporting Success in School and Preparedness for Life – Achieving Early Literacy and Accessing Quality Child Care

United Way Staff Representative:
Bethany Timmons (517) 796-5123

The problem, issue, or need:
The following was taken from the 2000 U.S. Census:

	City of Jackson	County
Total Families Below Poverty Level	1,318 (15.2%)	2, 675 (6.5%)
Families w/Children under 5	740 (30.3%)	1,210 (15.3%)
Female households w/Children under 5	546 (56.7%)	824 (44.7%)

Income has an effect on a child’s school readiness because families with less financial resources have a harder time meeting basic needs such as housing, health care, food, and transportation. They commonly live in neighborhoods/communities where schools have fewer resources and offer limited options for early education and care. They also are more likely to suffer from health problems such as asthma and malnutrition. In addition, these children are at a higher risk for abuse and neglect.

According to the 2005 Kids Count in Michigan data book, Jackson County ranked last in the state for children with less than adequate prenatal care (data was from 2003). In addition, in 2004 Jackson County ranked 69 out of 83 for confirmed victims of abuse or neglect (83 is the county with the highest abuse or neglect rate). There were 3,670 families investigated for abuse or neglect and 789 confirmed cases.

The High Scope/Perry Preschool Study proves there is a necessity for early childhood programming. Participants in the Perry Preschool Program were located at the age of 27, around 24 years after they had participated in the program. Program participants were four times more likely to earn $2000 a month, and one fifth as likely to have been arrested. This means the control group was arrested five times more than the program participants. In all, researchers in this study estimated every $1 invested in high-quality preschool education produced a $17 return. This money was saved through more efficient K-12 education (less grade retention and higher achievement), decrease in public adult education costs, increase in participant’s earnings and employee benefits, decrease in crime, and decrease in welfare payments.

History of the Initiative:
Launched in 1988, United Way SB6 is active in more than 350 communities or states. The initiative is based on medical and scientific research indicating that a child’s environment and experiences (whether they are positive or negative), by age five, have an irreversible effect on brain function and a lasting impact on later success in school and in life. In other words, if a child has positive early learning experiences/engagement, their brain functioning is impacted positively (e.g. parents/caregivers reading to the child starting in infancy) and if a child has not had early learning experiences/engagement their brain functioning is negatively impacted.

United Way of America officially licensed Jackson County’s SB6 in May of 2005. The purpose of SB6 is to ensure that all children in Jackson County enter school ready to learn. School readiness is more complex than a student simply knowing their letters and numbers. Children must not only be ready academically (e.g. basic letter/number knowledge), but also socially (e.g. play well with and respect other children), physically (e.g. basic health care needs addressed), and emotionally (e.g. able to leave parents without too much difficulty). Through coordination and collaboration, SB6 adds value to the work of agencies by creating change in the community that is beyond the capacity of any single agency acting on its own.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Catholic Charities, Child and Parent Center, Child Care Network, Community Action Agency, Consumers Energy, Department of Human Services, Florence Crittenton Services, Jackson Area Career Center, Jackson Community College, Jackson County Intermediate School District, Jackson District Library, Jackson Housing Commission, Jackson Nonprofit Support Center, LifeWays, MSU Extension, Spring Arbor University, United Way of Jackson County.

Intended Results:
The following is a summary of the intended outcomes for SB6:

Outcome 1: Parents have increase in knowledge and are utilizing available resources.
Develop and implement media campaign focused on increasing awareness around early childhood development. Media outlets include radio, TV, newspaper, billboards, etc. Information on local trainings and events and numbers to call for additional information will be incorporated into this campaign.

Outcome 2: Parents embrace their role and are supported as their child’s teacher.
Identify workplaces that employ lower income parents/caregivers such as Walmart, Meijer, and Kmart. Build relationships with these businesses. Set up short trainings/workshops for parents to attend while on break at work. Topics could include how to make everyday moments teachable moments, discussing appropriate developmental stages for children at different ages, and the importance of reading/interacting with children on a regular basis.

Outcome 3: Children age 0-6 are cared for in environments/community that nurture and instill social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Create and further develop neighborhood networks (starting with Partnership Park area). Work with existing neighborhood associations and recruit additional members for them (recruitment could be done through the schools, Head Start, childcare providers, etc.). These groups could then organize neighborhood clean up days (outcomes would be residents signing up to clean-up vacant lots and build playgrounds, volunteers for each lot meet and develop action plans, volunteers create clean, drug-free play areas, children play in clean, safe areas, and finally – residents feel the neighborhood is a safer place for children. In addition, these associations would advocate to the city of Jackson for more lighting in poorly lit areas.

Increase in developmentally appropriate learning environments for infants and toddlers by subsidizing childcare for families who would not otherwise be able to afford quality childcare. Steps taken to reach this outcome include finding funding for the subsidies, recruiting a panel of quality childcare experts to determine what area childcare providers are appropriate to receive subsidies, and develop criteria for recipients of subsidies.

Outcome 4: Enhance services available for parents and caregivers of children birth to age three. Identify parents and caregivers that would benefit from early childhood development training and support. Develop recruitment strategies (including going to parents for the training and support instead of requiring that they come to a training). Provide transportation and childcare for the trainings if necessary.

Outcome 5: SB6 is fully funded and integrated into the Jackson community. Write grant proposals for funding and better align existing programs to pool funds and coordinate services so overlap is eliminated. Continue collaborating and aligning strategies with the Great Start Collaborative.

Results Achieved:

Held Early Childhood Development Forum in June of 2005.
Completion of the Success By 6 strategic plan.
In January of 2006, the Jackson County Intermediate School District was awarded a $150,000 grant from the State of Michigan through the Great Start Collaborative. The strategic plan that SB6 created was a key factor in Jackson County receiving the grant.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way staff have served as conveners of the initiative and invested significant staff time. United Way also serves as the fiscal agent.

Community Warmth Initiative

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Overcoming Hardships and Forging Pathways to Self-Sufficiency

United Way Staff Representative:
Bethany Timmons (517) 796-5123

The problem, issue, or need:
In 2005, Jackson County 2-1-1 received almost 2,000 calls from people who needed utility assistance. 2-1-1 data shows that the need for utility assistance will continue to rise throughout the spring and summer months. The rise in need for utility assistance in the spring and summer months is largely due to that Winter Protection Plan, which was developed and mandated by the Michigan Public Service Commission. Energy companies calculate 6% of the estimated annual utility bill along with a portion of any past-due amount and charge households that average amount every month to avoid a spike in their winter bills. If actual energy charges are higher than that average, an unpaid balance accrues. After March 31st, households must pay their full monthly bills plus a portion of the amount they owe from the winter months (the balance is averaged across their April-October bills). Because the unpaid balance is often a thousand dollars or higher, many households are unable to pay these bills in the spring and summer and as a result the need for assistance increases.

History of the Initiative:
Faith-based and human service leaders started the Community Warmth Initiative after the hurricanes occurred down south last year. There was much concern that people in Jackson County would not be able to afford their heating bills because of the skyrocketing utility costs.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Agape Christian Church, American Cancer Society, Bethel Baptist Church, Cascades Wesleyan Church, Catholic Charities, Christ Lutheran Church, Church of Christ, Community Action Agency, Disability Connections, Family Services and Children’s Aid, First Baptist Church, First Congregational UCC, First Presbyterian, First United Methodist Church, Grace Church, Greater Bible Way, Immanuel Lutheran, Jackson County 2-1-1, Lily Mission Center/Church, Love, INC, Michigan Veterans Trust Fund, Mount Hope, MSU Extension, New Beginnings Church of God, Pathway to Hope Center, Salvation Army, Sandstone Congregational Church, Senator Mark Schauer, Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church, St. Johns United Church of Christ, St. John’s VCC, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, St. Vincent DePaul, Trinity United Methodist Church, United Way of Jackson County, Unity Church of Jackson, Universalist Unitarian Church, We Can Make Difference, Westminster Presbyterian, Westwinds Community Church.

Intended Results:
Initially, the collaborative focused on raising funds and developing a system to distribute those funds to Jackson County residents in need of utility assistance. To date the group has discussed advocating to the Michigan Public Service Commission to make changes in the Winter Protection Program, providing conservation and weatherization programs to households in need of utility assistance, and holding budgeting classes. This group has been emphatic about wanting to address root issues and is enthusiastically working together to address the needs in the Jackson community.

Results Achieved:

System created to distribute utility assistance to Jackson County families in need. Funds can be accessed once a year. Eligibility criteria to receive Community Warmth Initiative funds are as follows: a household must have a poverty level at or below 200%; the maximum number of funds that can be accessed by a household is $500 per year; a household cannot access funds unless their bill is overdue; in order to access fund the following year, participants must sign up to attend a budget class.
Warm Hearts Warm Homes bonfire raised community awareness and $5,067.46. Over 50 people volunteered for the event.
Pooled funds from faith based organizations, human service providers, public sources, foundations, and fundraisers. Leveraged over $27,000 in additional funds by using Community Warmth Initiative funds as matching dollars. Total dollars raised to date $64,127.83.
From February to August, 182 people have received utility assistance and $40,852.42 in funds have been distributed.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way of Jackson County convened the Community Warmth Initiative along with the Jackson Area Ministerial Association. Currently, United Way acts as the Community Warmth Initiative’s leader and coordinator. United Way also contributed funds and operates as the Community Warmth Initiative’s fiscal agent.

Teen Pregnancy Prevention

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Fostering Health and Well-Being Physically, Mentally and Emotionally – Preventing Teen Pregnancy

United Way Staff Representative:
Bethany Timmons (517) 796-5123

The problem, issue, or need:
Jackson County ranks 76 out of 83 Michigan counties for high teen pregnancy rates. In 2003, the estimated pregnancy rate for Jackson County residents age 15-19 was 78.4 per 1,000, compared to 56.9 per 1,000 statewide. 13.8% of Jackson County live births were to teen mothers, a full 4.3% higher than the state average. Teen mothers also accounted for 22.3% (or 85) of the induced abortions in Jackson County (2003). A total of 283 births were to teen mothers in 2003 (Michigan Department of Community Health). In Michigan, births to teen mothers are estimated to cost society at least $4,951 per year (National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy). Teen mothers face numerous issues, including disrupted and incomplete education, poverty, and increased health care needs. Children born to teen moms are more likely to suffer a lifetime of challenges.

History of the Initiative:
Prior to the 2006-2009 funding cycle, United Way’s Community Investment Cabinet looked at community data/needs and prioritized prevention of teen pregnancy under its Fostering Health & Well Being Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally area. Teen pregnancy is a very difficult problem to impact; only broad-brushed, multi-pronged efforts have proven successful. Jackson’s Health Department had led an ambitious prevention initiative some years ago, but when that funding ended all centralized coordination was lost; what prevention services still exist are fragmented. In November 2005 United Way convened a broad group to develop a strategic plan and set aside a portion of community funding to start implementation of that plan when completed.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Center for Family Health, Do’chas II, Florence Crittenton Services, Foote Health System, Foundation for a Healthy Community, Jackson County Health Department, Jackson County Intermediate School District, Jackson Public Schools, LifeWays, Lily Missions Center, Planned Parenthood, Pre Natal Task Force, United Way of Jackson County.

Intended Results:

Reduce the teen pregnancy rate in Jackson County.

Results Achieved:

Community group meeting regularly to develop a plan for our community.
Analyzed needs data, current programs serving teen moms and promising models.
Identification of the Carrera Teen Pregnancy Prevention program as the most promising way to prevent teen pregnancies among Jackson’s youth.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way has committed $75,000 per year over the next three years toward this initiative, and convened a collaborative group to develop a prevention plan for our community. At the suggestion of that planning group, United Way awarded the Jackson County Health Department a $20,000 grant in June of 2006 to further develop and lead the initiative; the Health Department staff that led the previous community efforts were still employed there and brought considerable expertise and experience to these efforts. United Way continues to invest staff time on this initiative; its Vision Councils will review the Strategic Plan upon completion and recommend ways to fund the plan through their set-aside funds.

Health Care for All

United Way Priority Area to Which it Relates:
Fostering Health and Well-Being Physically, Mentally and Emotionally – Improving our Physical Health

United Way Staff Representative:
Bethany Timmons (517) 796-5123 btimmons@uwjackson.org

The problem, issue, or need:
Nationally 45.5 million nonelderly Americans lacked health insurance in 2004. Adult’s account for 80% of that number. Low-income Americans with family incomes below 200% of the poverty level run the highest risk for being uninsured (2005, Kaiser Commission on Key Facts). Of Jackson County’s total population of 158,422 residents, 10.5%, or 16,635 persons, are uninsured [REACH database]. Jackson County has a low-income Medically Underserved Population designation, which indicates it is a high need population without sufficient resources. The community is also a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area, which reflects the fact that there are not enough dentists available to care for the population.

History of the Initiative:
The Health Care for All Initiative began meeting in June 2003, when the members of a school based health center planning team responded to a preponderance of evidence illustrating the needs of the uninsured and underinsured of Jackson County by broadening its mission to Health Care for All.

Major partners sharing accountability for successful planning and implementation:
Center for Family Health, Foote Health Systems, Foundation for a Healthy Community, Jackson Community College, Jackson County 2-1-1, Jackson County Community Foundation, Jackson County Department of Human Services, Jackson County Medical Society, LifeWays, Moretz Technologies, United Way of Jackson County.

Intended Results:

Creating an integrated delivery system of public and private primary care, specialty care, hospital care, pharmacy and diagnostic services, dental care, behavioral health, substance abuse and related social services.
Expanding and augmenting local resources to fill gaps in the safety net for uninsured and underinsured residents.
Producing innovations that result in better health for people at less cost.
Communicating results that demonstrate impressive returns on community investment and assure long-term sustainability.

Results Achieved:

Submitted $1.2 million request to the Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Care for All Initiative did not receive the grant, but continues to implement the plan that was developed for that grant proposal.
Conducted an interactive “Pacing Event” to engage numerous sectors and stakeholders in this initiative.
In 2006, Health Care for All was awarded a $40,000 grant from the Jackson County Community Foundation to implement Project Access in Jackson County. The Jackson County Medical Society has taken leadership of this project in collaboration with Health Care for All and plans to have Project Access running by the beginning of 2007.
Developing an integrated access system called the Front Door. This system would enroll people in health and human service programs and help them navigate the health and human service delivery system, resulting in overall improvements to their health and well-being.

United Way’s Role in the Initiative:
United Way has been involved with the Health Care for All initiative since it was started; its Executive Director challenged the school-based health center planning group to broaden its mission to Health Care for All. Currently, United Way staff serves as chair of the Health Care for All initiative and invests considerable time in its leadership and organization.

Other Strategic Activities

COMMUNITY REPORT CARD

Funding and other resources for human services are being stretched increasingly thinner. Reliable and current data is needed to make the most effective use of those resources. In 2000, several leading nonprofits joined together to explore creation of a “data repository” and community report card. The Report Card incorporates data from a variety of sources, including a large household survey, to assess several facets of life in Jackson. The United Way served as fiduciary, and eventually engaged the Human Service Coordinating Alliance in supporting and enhancing the Report Card.

View the 2002 Report Card
View the 2006 Report Card

Enhancement of the Report Card and development of a robust data repository for use by nonprofits, government, and any other interested groups, is continuing today by a growing community collaborative.

Emergency Needs/Special Response

Through a special arrangement between the Federal Emergency Management Agency and United Way of America, our local United Way coordinates distribution of FEMA funding to nonprofit programs, faith-based providers, and other qualified groups providing temporary shelter, food, and other basic needs to people in crisis.

United Way staff started Jackson’s Emergency Needs Coalition and still actively participates on it. The Emergency Needs Coalition works closely with numerous local nonprofits engaged in those activities to ensure services are coordinated and resources are distributed as efficiently and effectively as possible. That staff member also disburses a small amount of funding each month, assisting individuals in crisis by assisting with medical bills, rent and utility payments, and a variety of other needs. Sometimes a relatively small amount of assistance can mean the difference between an individual or family maintaining fiscal health versus falling into deep and lasting debt; over the years this program has helped numerous families retain their homes, obtain needed medication or treatment, achieve transportation, and retain some basic human dignity. A local foundation recently began contributing to this fund.

Teen Advisory Panel

The Teen Advisory Panel (TAP) offers opportunities for Jackson County teens to make their community a better place. More formally put, TAP's mission is:
To provide its members with opportunities to increase their community-wide involvement, knowledge, and understanding of the community's health and human service agencies and volunteer systems.
Panel members meet once a month at the United Way building. Members also choose to work on specific volunteer projects. Throughout the course of the year, TAP:

Invites proposals for services that impact the youth of our community, and determines which proposals should receive minigrants.
Develops and conducts community service projects
Participates in National Volunteer Projects

Who Can Participate?
TAP is comprised of high school-aged students (15-18) from throughout the county. Some are established student leaders, while others are just developing that potential. Diversity is valued, and the willingness to actively participate in discussions and projects is essential.

Benefits of Participation:
TAP offers its members numerous benefits. In addition to the satisfaction of helping others in your community, you will:

Develop leadership and communication skills.
Gain hours of volunteer experience.
Develop a better understanding of your community and its needs.
Participate in philanthropy, including distributing grants.
Meet other students from around Jackson who share your interests.
Earn point for National Honor Society.

If you want to make a difference, are 15-18 years of age, you could be a member! Contact Rochelle Gillespie, United Way of Jackson County's Teen Advisory Panel Advisor, at 517-796-5129 or rgillespie@uwjackson.org to learn more about joining.