August 2025

Tap the video to see our community united in action.


Back-to-School Bash 2025

Your Support Set Kids Up For Success


Sadly, many families in Lake County face significant financial stress during back-to-school season. With 36% of households fighting to stay afloat, the cost of clothing, shoes, and supplies can feel overwhelming.


That’s why we participated in our community's Back-to-School Bash, rallying hundreds of donors and volunteers to take action as we transformed generosity into a “pop-up” clothing store at the August 2 bash. We also provided the funds for the purchase and giveaway of 1,742 backpacks. The event was free and open to all Lake County families in need.


We began collecting donations in April and continued through July. By the time the bash arrived, we had gathered an amazing 11,222 items of clothing, coats, and shoes, thanks to hundreds of donors who stepped up to fill the need. Behind the scenes, 70 volunteers worked tirelessly to sort, fold, and prepare everything. Another 114 volunteers helped us set up and run our “pop-up” clothing store to welcome families with dignity and care.


Because of the kindness and efforts of United Way Lake County donors and volunteers, 1,222 shoppers were served, parents experienced the relief of one less financial burden, and children experienced the joy of choosing clothes that made them feel confident and cared for.


Thanks to the involvement of nonprofits and businesses across Lake County who participated in the bash as well, families also had access to backpacks filled with school supplies, books, dental care, haircuts, family portraits, and more.


Because of all involved, children across our community are starting the school year with confidence, pride, and the knowledge that their friends and neighbors believe in them.


When you give in support of our mission, you are giving hope, help, and opportunity to those who need it most.


Board Member Spotlight

WHY United Way of Lake County?

"As a foster mom, I’ve witnessed the pain of poverty, addiction, and mental health crises, and the powerful difference that United Way Lake County supported programs make in 

people’s lives. I grew up with very little, and now as a business owner in Lake County, I’m passionate about giving back and creating lasting change for families. There is no organization more impactful in our community than United Way Lake County. "


Therese Zdesar, RN BSN

President/Owner

QualCare, LLC (dba Home Instead®)

"As the Superintendent of Mentor Public Schools and with 34 years in public and private education, I’ve seen firsthand how meeting students’ academic, social, behavioral, and emotional needs early on leads to success. The work we do at United Way Lake County directly benefits programs that deliver those supports to students in need across our county, and I am honored to be part of their mission."


Craig Heath

Superintendent

Mentor Public Schools



Raffles


  • WIN 4 Premium Access Browns Tickets ($3,400 Value) to see the Browns take on the Packers Sunday, September 21 at 1 pm! Enjoy great seats - section 134, Row 22, Seats 5 - 8; TCP Club Access (an event-level club across from the Browns locker room door); FREE Premium Food; FREE Premium Full Bar; and Parking Pass! Only 350 raffle tickets remain. Click here now for yours!




2025 Workplace Campaign: Can We Count You In?

One big way to give back is by running a workplace campaign in support of our mission. We start each year with a zero balance and rely on the kindness of our local community to help us help others. All funds raised in Lake County stay in Lake County, helping our own friends and neighbors in need. Interested in running a campaign? Contact Stephanie Devers at sdevers@uwlc.org, call 440-639-1236 or fill out this form and we'll get everything ready for you!


Youth United Way 2025 Fall Program

Applications are now being accepted for our FREE 6-session program that kicks off this October. Details and registration information can be found here.


In Search of Youth United Way Graduates

Are you a graduate of Youth United Way or do you know someone who is? If yes, we have a couple of exciting opportunities available for YUW graduates! Please contact David Whittaker at dwhittaker@uwlc.org today!


Bottles, Boards & Boutiques: Thursday, October 16 | 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Join Women United at the Mentor Harbor Yachting Club for a special happy hour in support of wine donations for Winterfest, their largest fundraiser of the year. You'll enjoy curated boutique shopping, mouthwatering charcuterie boards, raffle prizes, and a cash bar! Complete details and registration information can be found here.


Women's Winterfest & Holiday Food Tasting Fundraiser: November 20

Save the date of Thursday evening, November 20! Women United’s most popular event of the year sells out fast—watch for full details and registration information coming soon!


Volunteer Opportunities: We Need YOU

Interested in volunteering with us or one of our partners? Click here to register! And if your agency or organization is interested in finding volunteers we may be able to help! Click here now to register.


Year-Round Food Pantry: Food Needed to Help Stock Our Shelves

We accept food donations year-round to fill our food pantry, which serves 38 local food banks. If you are able to donate food or run a food drive, please contact David Whittaker at dwhittaker@uwlc.org or call 440-639-1203.


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