Did you know that every $1 spent on quality early care for children saves $17 in future costs for crime control, unemployment and special education?  That’s why United Way works to ensure that thousands of children and teens in our area benefit from day care, after-school and summer camp programs.

	More than 5,600 youth participated in scouting programs
	More than 70 Big Brother and Big Sister matches to at-risk youth
	Almost 1,700 children provided with day care and before/after school programs

Keith, a teenager from Flemington, felt lost after his father died of cancer in 2002.  His mother couldn’t help but notice Keith’s strong need for a positive male role model in his life.  Thankfully, they turned to Big Brother Big Sisters to find a such a match.

Big Brother Big Sisters successfully matched Keith with Tom (42).  Right from the start, they genuinely enjoyed each other’s company and Keith was excited that he finally had another “guy” to talk to that could relate to his thoughts and feelings.  Whenever they spend time together, they enjoy camping, fishing and seeing movies.

Today, Keith and Tom have been matched for almost two years.  Keith’s mom is also pleased that her son is now much more self-confident and she believes that his self-esteem has improved.

*The names in this story have been changed to protect the confidentiality of these individuals.

Last year, United Way of Hunterdon County provided $125,153 to support programs that assist children and youth develop to their full physical, social, emotional and cognitive potential, working in partnership with:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hunterdon & Somerset Counties

Boy Scouts – Central NJ Council

Girl Scouts – Rolling Hills Council

Glen Gardner Youth Center

YMCA of Hunterdon County