Change Maker Blog

For most of us, tax season can be daunting. But for those struggling to make ends meet, a full tax refund is a vital budget boost that keeps the lights on, puts food on the table, and pays for a place to call home. At United Way of Broome County, we know that helping...

“Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”           -Martin Luther King, Jr.,...

The United Way of Broome County’s 211 Susquehanna River Region Information and Referral Contact Center is a lifeline for the community. 211 Susquehanna River Region is an accredited service that was designed as a one-stop-shop for individuals in Broome, Chenango,...

Held mainly on Friday, June 3, and Friday, June 4, Day of Action harnessed the time and talents of many in our community. To be exact, 126 volunteers gathered at 16 projects in our community. In total, 450 hours were volunteered, valued at $15,565*! United Way of...

The days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter, and children all across our community are eager for the end of the school year! In anticipation, United Way of Broome County is seeking donations of summer camp items for its annual Day of Action Drive, now...

Outreach to those in need in the community is part of UHS’s mission as a not-for-profit healthcare system. Participation in United Way’s Full Plate Project is one important way the organization is helping those who have food insecurity. Leading the fundraising effort...

Networking, leadership development, and making a difference are all ways you could describe United Way of Broome County’s Emerging Leaders Society. To capitalize on their key values, ELS will be hosting a Networking+ event on May 26 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Beer...

There are a few weeks left in Spring and just a few weeks left for Spring cleaning! You may have cleaned out your closets or maybe even your pantry. But have you taken on that dreaded pile of papers that you have stacking up? (You know the ones we are talking about!)...

In Broome County, 1 in 8 families face food insecurity, often having to choose between buying groceries or paying rent. After rent, utilities, child care, transportation, health care expenses, and other bills, there's often too little for healthy meals. That's why...

Warmer weather calls for getting outside and getting active! The Healthy Lifestyles Coalition is excited to kick off the season with their Pedal into Spring event. On Saturday, April 9, from 10:30 am-12:30 pm, HLC is celebrating the annual launch of their Fresh Cycles...

April showers bring May flowers to VAST's Annual Volunteer Conference! United Way of Broome County is proud to partner with Volunteer Administrators of the Southern Tier to host their annual Volunteer Conference on Thursday, April 21. National Volunteer Week, held...

As February comes to an end, we recognize that our work is not done as it relates to our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (D.E.I.) journey. At United Way of Broome County, we continue to grow and learn through a D.E.I. lens. We encourage you to lead with the same passion and desire to make a foreseeable change in our community.

Historically, United Way of Broome County’s Day of Caring takes place on or around September 11 to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and remember the heroes that arose from that day. This year our community was able to come together to volunteer...

Did you know that American’s spend one-third of their lives at work? * When so much of our time is spent with our coworkers, it is crucial to harvest these relationships and treasure their importance. At United Way of Broome County, we recognize the importance of...

Education is crucial for children to learn and grow and for adults to succeed and live impactful lives. When a parent is single and lacking the skills to acquire successful careers, they are often left with a stagnant income and unreliable childcare. Emily*, a...

United Way of Broome County’s Emerging Leaders Society is excited to host their first annual minigolf tournament! This event, set for Thursday, September 23, aims to gather friends, families, and other groups to get together and just have fun at Chucksters in Vestal....

It’s that time again! United Way of Broome County is gearing up to host our annual volunteer service day, Day of Caring, on Friday, September 10, and Saturday, September 11. Historically held around this time, Day of Caring aims to bring together volunteers throughout...

After roughly a year and a half of online meetings, events, and virtual connections, United Way of Broome County’s Emerging Leaders Society is excited to get back out into the community, form relationships with like-minded individuals, and make a difference. To kick...

Alexa Langeland of Alexa Langeland State Farm in Vestal has gone above and beyond to serve the community through her business and by dedicating her time to volunteer service. Check out how Alexa and her team give back! There are many ways for you to volunteer. Make...

You did it. United Way of Broome County is proud to announce that we have surpassed our goal for the 2020-2021 Annual Community Campaign of $1,720,000! To our dedicated donors, advocates, and volunteers both near and far, we extend our sincerest thanks for making this...

And that's a wrap! Day of Action held on Friday, June 18, and Saturday, June 19, brought together 130 volunteers to take on projects at 9 agencies throughout Broome County. Thanks to the hard work of individuals, families, and organizations, 440 hours of volunteer...

There is an old African Proverb that says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” The Broome County Gang Prevention (BCGP) aims to be part of the community making a positive impact on Binghamton’s Youth. Housed in the Saratoga and Carlisle Community Centers at the...

After a long journey, we are hesitant yet hopeful that things are beginning to look up. As we look around, we see a community that never wavered to come together during times of need. A community that undoubtfully will continue to support one another. Recognizing that...

Child care has long been a complex and challenging issue for providers, families, and employers alike. Last fall, the Community Foundation for South Central New York, United Way of Broome County, and the Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation determined that given the...

Young professionals are the future leaders of our community, paving the way for generations to come. At United Way of Broome County, we recognize the importance of collaboration between young professionals in our area. The Emerging Leader’s Society aims to bring...

As we begin to wishfully maneuver back towards a "normal" society, our attitude tends to change just as rapidly. Going back into the office? Staying at home? Finding the balance between work and personal time can be a daunting task that leaves behind a confusing...

It can happen to anyone: your neighbor, your coworker, your sister, or your brother. Homelessness is a serious issue that many people in our very own community face. Volunteers of America of Western New York’s Emergency Shelter for Men not only works to provide men...

As we dive into spring, we look back and reflect on all of the Healthy Lifestyles Coalition's vital work in the neighborhoods surrounding the Lee Barta Community Center in the past months. Since January, the team has operated the pantry with a unique ordering and...

We all love to pay it forward. It feels good to do good! Doing good in your community can look like a variety of different things. Depending on your own abilities and the opportunities in your area, there is an abundance of options to help those around you. In honor...

It’s hard to believe that after the long cold winter, that spring has sprung, and warmer weather is among us! Warmer weather calls for putting away our puffy jackets and breaking out shorts and sunglasses. Not long after the start of spring comes Earth Day. Taking...

Within the past year alone, our society has shown what it looks like to come together and be there for those in need. Long-term volunteers and those who sprung to action in times of crisis became the unsung heroes who supported our ­­­­community's most crucial needs....

United Way of Broome County is excited to launch our new volunteer platform, the Volunteer HQ! Are you looking for ways to get involved and are searching for volunteer opportunities? Look no further! Watch our video to get an idea of how to use the platform, then try...

Roughly one year after the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, we look back to when we realized life as we knew it was fundamentally altered from how it had been a month, a week, and even a day earlier. We also celebrate exactly how...

Diversity, equity, and inclusion. Terms we often hear and are responsible for understanding. While DEI is at the forefront of news outlets, social media, and society, it is important to understand that this topic is not a trend but rather a long overdue and ongoing...

File your taxes for free. Get the assistance you need. United Way of Broome County is committed to ensuring that people in our community can easily and accurately file their taxes to receive the refunds and credits they deserve. One solution we offer is the...

One out of every five residents in Broome and Tioga Counties suffers from a literacy issue that negatively impacts their lives. The ability to read. A skill that many of us don't think twice about as we complete daily tasks, like sending a text message or reading the...

It’s that time of the year again! Despite the changes our society has seen in the past few months, tax season is one annual event that will continue, unbothered. So, what does that mean for people in our community? Services are available to those who need them. United...

This past year has looked different for more reasons than one due to the coronavirus. At the Lee Barta Community Center, our Healthy Lifestyles Coalition team did not give up on the community we serve. Our team persevered safely through all odds to ensure the...

‘Tis the holiday season! As the weather gets colder and COVID-19 restrictions linger, you may be thinking of ways to stay active and celebratory during this holiday season. Here are some fun activities to do, all while giving back to our community!   Check out...

We all have that one special person that has affected our lives in more ways than one. Someone who acts as a guide through difficult times, teaches us valuable lessons, and is always your shoulder to lean on. Initially kicking off in the area in 2017, Big Brothers Big...

Now more than ever, our community is proving what a large impact we can make together, despite having to stay at a distance. With the holiday season underway, you can continue to make a difference! Tuesday, December 1, is Giving Tuesday. This particular day has...

With the weather getting inevitably colder every day as we enter the later months of the year, United Way of Broome County has kicked off a Warm Winter Accessories Holiday Drive, now until December 31. To support those in need in our community, United Way of Broome...

In early March 2020, United Way of Broome County joined forces with The Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation, Community Foundation for South Central New York, Dr. C. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation, The Stewart W. and Wilma C. Hoyt Foundation, George A. and...

Calling all local non-profits! Starting November 2, United Way of Broome County’s Strategic Community Grants Program opens for applications.   We strive to collaboratively better Broome County through impact areas, including Health, Education, Financial...

United Way of Broome County. What is that? What do you do?   These are both questions we get quite often! So often, we decided to try to explain the basics of all that we do in just under two minutes. From health to education, financial stability to basic needs,...

United Way of Broome County’s Emerging Leader’s Society is hosting their second DEI-based event! In September 2020, ELS members kicked off their first Roundtable Discussion centered on Race, Racism and Social Justice. This virtual conversation was a huge success,...

Calling all local non-profits! It’s that time of the year again! Join us for our third annual Partnering for a Purpose! This completely virtual event, held on November 9th and 10th, aims to provide meaningful resources in a fun and interactive environment.  ...

As the campaign year continues to be underway, our commitment to the community remains the same. Through all of life’s obstacles and uncertainties, we continue to Live United. We look forward to collaboratively working toward a better Broome County!   You can...

It’s time for this year’s Day of Caring Drive! United Way of Broome County is seeking donations of new personal care items from now until the end of September. Items will be distributed to the following non-profit agencies in Broome County: Lee Barta Community Center,...

Although life seems to have been on pause for the past few months, organizations and programs in our area have continued to operate behind the scenes. Many local non-profits throughout Broome County have persevered throughout these hard times. This perseverance would...

Volunteers Improving Neighborhood Environments, better known in the community as VINES, has served as a unique solution to food insecurity in our community.   VINES, housed in Binghamton, sets out to create sustainable community food systems. Through their...

Everyone Deserves to Thrive--Not Just Survive Timely access to health care isn’t something that always happens for those in our community who need it most. Every day, people in need who struggle with a mental health crisis, chronic illness or addiction have urgent...

It’s tough to beat the heat when it seems like there is no escape to the effects that COVID-19 has had on the summer months. Even with social distancing in full force, there are still ways to make it a great summer!

It all started with a pot of coffee.   About 20 years ago, Steven*, a poverty-stricken man who suffered addiction, walked into the First Presbyterian Church of Johnson City and was given a cup of coffee. One cup turned into two, then three, until pots of coffee...

Earlier this month, Campaign Chairperson, Dave Culbertson, announced we surpassed our 2019-2020 Annual Community Campaign goal of $1,818,000. What an accomplishment, with strong support throughout the community!    So, what happens now? United Way of Broome...

Calling all parents and kids!   Looking for a way to stay physically active together? United Way of Broome County’s Emerging Leaders Society has teamed up with a special guest to create Fitness Friday just for you!   A play on of our previous event, Sweat it...

It’s that time again!   United Way of Broome County is seeking donations of childcare center supplies for our annual Day of Action Supply Drive happening now through the end of July. Donations will be allocated to childcare programs at the YMCA, YWCA, Broome...

Thank you. Donors, advocates, volunteers - because of you, the 2019-2020 Annual Community Campaign year was a success. We are proud to announce that we have surpassed our goal of $1,818,000! The dollars raised in this year’s campaign have been committed to assisting...

To best meet the needs of our community, IBM Endicott has joined forces with us to launch the Safety Net Challenge Match. Every donation made throughout the month of June will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000, by IBM Endicott. That means any investment you...

60 days. That’s about how long it has been since the start of social distancing and shutdowns due to COVID-19 in Broome County. That’s a long time for life to be anything but normal! But who says you have to stay at home and do nothing? Now more than ever, people have...

The 2020 Census is here – take it today so you are counted. You can complete the census online through October 31st.   This is the first time that the census is available to be filled out online, making it easier than ever before. Take the 2020 Census here! In...

Teachers have always and will always be admired. This week, National Teacher Appreciation Week, just gives us an excuse to show them a little more love! In light of the changes due to COVID-19, teachers everywhere, especially Broome County, have been going above and...

#GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of unity is taking place tomorrow, May 5, 2020, as a response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Tomorrow, we take the time to recognize the importance of giving in our community and helping others. The act of giving can be...

Since mid-March, the Healthy Lifestyles Coalition (HLC) partner organizations and staff have put their best foot forward to ensure that our community has access to food, healthy resources, enriching activities, as well as staying connected to their communities in this...

The COVID-19 Community Respond Fund Alliance, led by United Way of Broome County, Community Foundation for South Central New York, The Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation, The Stewart W. and Willma C. Hoyt Foundation, George A. and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation,...

A selfless act. To give without expectation of reward or recognition.   That is exactly how you would explain the kinds of people that we recognize during this week, National Volunteer Week! In Broome county, we are so lucky to have so many volunteers that...

News channels, Facebook posts, radio stations, you name it, are constantly reminding us of the ongoing pandemic. Although informational and necessary to be educated, it can also take a toll on one’s mental well-being having to be constantly reminded of negative...

When faced with adversity, some people really rise to the occasion. From small acts of kindness to good deeds affecting hundreds of people, plenty of Broome County residents are doing what they can to help out amid COVID-19 chaos. Hospital Heroes Meals Binghamton -...

If you’re feeling stressed or nervous during these days of COVID-19, you’re not alone. Uncertainty and the sense of not being safe — not to mention physical distancing, round-the-clock news and empty grocery shelves — are stressful. What you’re feeling is common...

With schools and public places closing around the world in response to the coronavirus, families are finding themselves with a lot of time together at home—a lot of time. You know how to cuddle for naps, how to flip on the TV for a half-hour, how to distract with a...

We’re facing unprecedented challenges in our community as we confront the COVID-19 emergency—and it’s important we do it together. United Way of Broome County is proud to join and serve the COVID-19 Community Response Fund Alliance, a funder collaborative of...

Schools, restaurants, stores, and businesses close, sports canceled, and events postponed. Although our community has been experiencing rapid changes due to the effects of COVID-19, many essential practices continue to operate. The 2020 census being no exception....

In light of schools closing due to COVID-19, children across America are either at home or daycare, and have a lot of free time.   It is important that these children continue to get their education, and to be continuously stimulated. As the days go on, you may...

In just the last few days we have seen the community come together to protect those most vulnerable around us. Whether it be local organizations handing out free meals to children and seniors, or grocery stores designating time slots to those most susceptible to the...

At this point in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, most of us have been asked to practice social distancing—that is, stay home and far away from each other. And it’s stressful. Here are 7 ways you can increase your positivity, lower your stress, and help your health...

Join the Emerging Leaders Society (ELS) this Thursday, March 5, from 5:30 to 7:30, for a Networking+ event, open to young and mid-career professionals, at Fountains Tavern, 73 C F J Blvd, Johnson City. This is an amazing way to introduce people to what we are and what...

10-year-old Emily* felt as though her world was falling apart. Struggling with her parent’s divorce, Emily was referred to Family & Children’s Counseling Services, a program funded by United Way of Broome County. The Family & Children’s Counseling Services partners with schools and families to provide therapeutic intervention and support services in the school to families who might not otherwise be able to access services.

Happy National 211 Day! Today,  February 11th, we celebrate National 211 Day to recognize the importance of the vital service. Every year, millions of people across North America contact 211 for assistance. Ensuring every person has access to this critical resource...

Calling all non-profits! United Way of Broome County is pleased to announce the 2020-2021 Capacity Building Grant Program is now open for proposals. United Way of Broome County is committed to strengthening the capacity of local nonprofits to address the ever-evolving...

211 Day (February 11 or 2/11) is right around the corner. Many people are unfamiliar with 211 and the information and referral services provided. Learn about 211 and the importance of the services in our community. Whether you’re searching for information or a...

Piles of paperwork. Hours at the computer. Long visits to the accountant. For most of us, tax season is a hassle we’d rather do without. But for those struggling to make ends meet, a full tax refund is a vital budget boost that keeps the lights on, puts food on the...

By Nick Spencer, United Way of Broome County Board Member; Smith Brothers Insurance Throughout 2019, I had the privilege and honor of participating in a variety of United Way of Broome County volunteer events. Day of Action, an event geared towards promoting summer...

As the flames continued to grow, you could feel the heat radiating across your entire body. The glowing orange light and the faint sound of firetruck sirens in the distance lured neighbors out of their homes to see what was going on. As the neighbors slowly crept out,...

In the last weeks of the year, we are busier than ever – busy with shopping, celebratory meals, and gift-giving. There’s more gathering with family and friends. There’s also a greater inclination toward philanthropy this time of year, as we take stock of all we have,...

  Do you ever find yourself rushing to the store on Black Friday to get a deal on something you probably don’t even need? Instead, take the time this holiday to be present in the moment and thankful for everything and everyone you have in your life. This little...

  Every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving, millions of people swarm stores looking for minuscule deals on items such as electronics and clothing. This consumer-centric behavior has led to a decreased awareness of what the holiday season is truly about. In...