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Advocacy and Public Policy

At United Way of Central Ohio, we are dedicated to creating lasting change through our Success by Third Grade movement. This initiative is at the core of our Advocacy and Public Policy work, focusing on helping families thrive and ensuring children succeed in school. By addressing systemic barriers and championing policies that support early childhood success, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for our community.

Our Public Policy team participates in a number of advocacy efforts on local, state and federal levels, meeting with representatives in Washington, D.C., and at the Ohio Statehouse to discuss the importance and impact of our work. In addition, they frequently reach out to Ohio legislators to invite them to tour the Community Impact Center and learn more about Success by Third Grade.

Here are key ways our advocacy supports Success by Third Grade:

United for ALICE ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) represents hardworking individuals and families who face financial challenges despite being employed. Through our partnership with United for ALICE, we highlight the struggles of these families and inform policies that promote economic stability. By advocating for resources and supports that reduce financial stress, we help families create a foundation for their children’s success in school and beyond. Learn more about United for ALICE.

Tax Time Our Tax Time program ensures low- to moderate-income households can access free tax preparation services and claim critical tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). These efforts directly support the financial stability of families, enabling parents to provide the resources their children need to thrive academically. We advocate for tax policies that prioritize the well-being of families, reinforcing the importance of economic security in achieving educational success. Learn more about Tax Time.

Economic Mobility Program United Way of Central Ohio has joined with the City of Columbus to launch a pilot program focused on improving the economic and financial security of up to 200 local households with earnings above the federal poverty level but below central Ohio’s cost of living. United Way’s Tax Time program is one of six community partners selected to offer economic mobility programs and administer direct funding assistance to local residents who qualify for the two-year program. Learn more about the program. 

Stable Families A stable home environment is critical for a child’s success in school. The Stable Families program prevents homelessness by providing families with financial assistance, support services and case management. In 2024, we hosted the Siemer Institute Summit at our Community Impact Center. Learn more about Stable Families and the Siemer Institute.

Ohio United Ways Collaborative United Way of Central Ohio was instrumental in forming a collaborative of six United Ways early in 2023 to share and implement strategies, and seek funding that will move the needle on literacy achievement throughout the central Ohio region. These United Ways include United Way of Central Ohio; United Way of Union County; United Way of Delaware County; United Way of Clark; Champaign & Madison Counties; United Way of Muskingum, Perry & Morgan Counties; and United Way of Fairfield County. The State of Ohio approved funding in its 2024-2025 budget to help the collaborative advance strategies to improve early literacy and family stability. Learn more about the $3.6 million funding allocation.

LinkUS Endorsement Transportation plays a crucial role in family stability and access to education. Our endorsement of LinkUS reflects our commitment to equitable transportation solutions that connect families to schools, jobs and essential services. By advocating for sustainable transit systems, we reduce barriers to opportunity and empower families to prioritize their children’s education. Learn more about our endorsement.

Literacy Roundtable United Way of Central Ohio hosted a Literacy Roundtable in September 2024 to highlight the critical issue of youth literacy rates in our community. Participants included local state representatives and legislative aides from the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. Learn more about the roundtable.

Why Advocacy Matters Advocacy is essential to creating systemic change and addressing the root causes of inequity. Through our Success by Third Grade movement, we focus on supporting families and ensuring children have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed in school. By working with policymakers, partners and community members, we champion initiatives that strengthen families and build a brighter future for all. Together, we can create a more equitable community where every child can achieve academic success and thrive.

We invite you to join us and learn more by following United Way of Central Ohio on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads and TikTok.

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