1 IN 5 YOUTH in Waterloo Region won’t graduate from high school. High school graduation rates in Waterloo Region are approximately 4 points lower than the provincial average of 86%.
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Education – 2016 Graduation Rates Across the Province).
Emily started falling behind in school after issues at home led to her moving out. “Just getting to school was a challenge on its own,” she says. “I would get the bare minimum done and I missed so many assignments.” Connecting with a United Way funded program helped Emily stay motivated and accountable. And now she’s focused on being a good role model for her younger brothers. “I want to give them hope,” she says, “that even if things seem a little challenging now, they can graduate and go as far as they want to.”
United Way funded programs gave over 5,000 people the opportunity to engage with positive role models and improve their social skills.
Watch Emily's Story
United Way Waterloo Region Communities is dedicated to helping people live better lives in every one of the seven communities we serve. We are fundraisers who support a network of agencies whose programs and services are locally focused, informed, connected, and that help people like Emily reach their full potential.