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Throughout the month of July, United Way of Orange County helped make summer a little brighter for local youth through a special Youth Opportunity Initiative in partnership with Skating at the ORC.
Every Tuesday in July, United Way provided free pizza for youth attending ORC's skating rink as well as the gaming center in Vidor while also offering scholarships that allowed children to participate at no cost. By removing financial barriers, more young people were able to enjoy safe, supervised recreational activities, connect with friends, and make lasting memories.
In addition to the weekly community events, children participating in partner agency's summer programs were provided a special skating experience.
For many of the children, it was their very first time on skates.
One YMCA summer camper summed up the experience perfectly as the group prepared to leave:
"Ms. Janet, this was the best day of my life."
YMCA staff watched as a six-year-old girl, who had always dreamed of skating, spent two determined hours learning with the encouragement of a new friend she met that day. By the end of the afternoon, she proudly completed an entire lap around the rink on her own before celebrating with a giant hug.
At The Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Center, another unforgettable moment unfolded when a child with special needs gained the confidence to skate independently using a skating stability bar. The child's accomplishment was met with cheers from friends and staff, creating a memory that will last far beyond the summer.
As one partner agency shared:
"United Way's support does more than fund an event—it creates opportunities for every child to build confidence, make lasting memories, and know they belong."
Whether it was enjoying pizza with friends on a Tuesday evening, learning to skate for the first time, or simply having the opportunity to participate, the Youth Opportunity Initiative helped create moments of joy, confidence, and connection for children throughout Orange County.
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