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Valley of the Sun United Way launches campaign to fight chronic absenteeism


The Arizona Department of Education's recent data reveals a concerning surge in chronic absenteeism among the state's public schools since the pandemic. While chronic absence rates decreased in 2023, they remain double the pre-pandemic levels.


In our collective efforts to tackle this critical issue, we are delighted to introduce the Attendance Matters Campaign. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Supporting Attendance Across Maricopa County project and various community partners.

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Pathways to Economic Opportunity


To advance economic progress for underserved communities in the Phoenix area, Valley of the Sun United Way is bringing together organizations from various sectors.


By working with partners and those with firsthand experience, our goal is to create and implement innovative solutions. Recognizing that systems are interconnected, these partnerships foster synergy across different opportunity systems, enabling intersectional solutions that drive meaningful, systemic change.


One example is the Pathways to Economic Opportunity program. Early work experiences equip youth with valuable career skills. However, lower-income Black and Latina young women frequently lack access to these opportunities, putting them at a significant disadvantage when entering the workforce.


In a collaborative effort, Valley of the Sun United Way and its partner organizations are proactively establishing pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, and internships to create more pathways to success for program participants, addressing this inequity.

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notMYkid


As part of the MC2026 5-Year Plan, Valley of the Sun United Way is collaborating with community partners like notMYkid to enhance local health outcomes. Together, we will increase access to affordable healthcare by 100,000 individuals.


For over 20 years, notMYkid has provided high-impact prevention education and early intervention programs to youth, families, schools, and community partners. In that time, the organization has successfully served more than 3 million individuals and continues to reach over 100,000 youth and adults annually.

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Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

Project Connect | Thursday, September 26

On Thursday, September 26, join Keys to Change in Avondale for Project Connect, a semi-monthly event that serves as a mobile one-stop-shop for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness and housing insecurity. Volunteers are needed to fill roles such as Guest Guide, Guest Experience Support, and Provider Liaison.


Sign-up today



2024 Day of Action | Saturday, October 26

Join Valley of the Sun United Way for our annual Day of Action on Saturday, October 26 and lend a hand to make a difference! This year, we've set an ambitious goal to positively impact as many lives as possible through a single day of service.


Volunteer projects will span a variety of activities, from sprucing up local schools and building community gardens to assembling kits and more.


Reserve your spot today



Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities

We've made it straightforward for you to contribute. With year-round volunteering options, you can be part of the solution anytime.


View current opportunities

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Questions?

Reach out to our team at

(602) 631-4800 or [email protected]