A Helping Hand Goes a Long Way

Nov 30, 2016

by United Way NCA

Jackson’s Story

Simply being a teenager isn’t always easy. But being a teenager that’s moving to a new country with only your mother while suffering from various undiagnosed medical challenges?

Anyone could see that 13-year-old Jackson desperately needed help.

With the assistance of Communities in Schools of NOVA coordinator Isabel Perez, Jackson and his mother received support for and access to basics most of us never even think twice about—such as food, rent, and furniture. Communities in Schools also connected Jackson with services that helped him better manage his medical issues, which directly affected his ability to attend school.

The result? In one quarter, Jackson’s attendance rose 40%. And his grades have soared as well.

Today, Jackson has fewer things to worry about and many more things to look forward to. All he really needs to concern himself with now…is simply being a teenager.

In one quarter, Jackson’s attendance rose 40% and his grades have soared as well.

Recent Posts

related post thumbnail
Jan 06, 2026

blog

States Where Americans Are Struggling Most to Afford Basic Needs

Today, 13% of U.S households are earning below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), while an additional 29% of U.S. households qualify as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—earning too much to..
related post thumbnail
Nov 20, 2025

blog

Building Career Readiness at Home: How Families Create Future Success

Career readiness begins long before a young person fills out their first job application. It starts at home, where families play a defining role in shaping the skills, confidence, and..
related post thumbnail
Nov 20, 2025

blog

Enhancing Financial Literacy: Your Comprehensive Guide

Financial literacy has become an essential life skill in today’s changing economic landscape. Rising living costs, new financial technologies, and an increasing number of financial products have made money management..