Youth United Way expands to new school

Formed in 2000, the United Way of Southeast Missouri's Youth United Way program has grown from five to six high schools and from three to six representatives per school.

"With students so involved in other groups, it was important to recruit more representatives in the event that schedules made the grade-level representatives unable to attend," said Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri. "We have added another high school this year as well, Oak Ridge."

Involving high school students in the United Way enables them to build an understanding of community needs, instills the philanthropic spirit and helps them recognize the United Way's role in communities, according to a news release from the organization.

The Youth United Way contributes to the 2007 United Way campaign through fundraisers, monthly volunteer activities and promotion of community volunteer opportunities within the schools.

In 2007, more than $18,000 was raised by the students, who are also responsible for making allocation decisions for the funds they raised. For the past few years, the funded programs have focused on teen pregnancy and substance abuse.

"Currently the group is evaluating their focus, and some have a strong interest in senior citizens and the Humane Society. They're getting ready to announce that applications are online for groups who meet the criteria for allocation consideration," Jernigan said.

The Youth United Way program includes Central High School in Cape Girardeau, Jackson High School, Scott City High School, Notre Dame Regional High School, Oak Ridge High School and Saxony Lutheran High School. Youth United Way aims to help teens become responsible adults through activities and programs that build character and self-confidence, the news release said.

The group meets monthly during the school year. For more information, call 334-9634.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133