Supporting ALICE Students Across Our Region
We create pathways for young people in middle and high school to reach their economic and career goals and be competitive in shaping their future.
Our Youth Opportunity Programs & Resources
OUR COMMITMENT
United Way NCA is focused on supporting students’ pathways to success from middle school onward. We work in Title I schools across the National Capital Area to address attendance, behavior, and course performance through our Community Schools initiative.
Across our region, students are dropping out of school at an alarming rate. Students living in poverty experience barriers that stunt their academic success and well-being. Hunger, absence of academic support, low parental involvement, and limited healthcare are all barriers that stand in the way of our youth’s success.
Students who start ninth grade on schedule, reading at grade level, and with grade-appropriate math skills, are three times more likely to graduate high school than students who don’t. United Way NCA is focused on meeting ALICE youth where they’re at.
Through our Community Schools initiative, we can meet ALICE students where they are, focusing on the middle school-to-college and/or career success pipeline.
Education Program FAQs
Who can participate in United Way NCA's youth opportunity programs?
United Way NCA’s Youth Opportunity programs are available exclusively to students attending a United Way NCA Community School. These opportunities are offered in partnership with participating schools and are not open to the general public.
How do I enroll my child in a program?
United Way NCA does not have a direct enrollment process. Instead, we work closely with our Community School partners to offer educational and enrichment opportunities throughout the school year. When a United Way NCA program, event, or activity is available, the Community School Coordinator or school administration shares information with eligible students and families, including program flyers and permission slips when applicable. Schools manage student participation in accordance with their school district’s policies and procedures for field trips, events, and other enrichment activities.
Are these programs free?
Yes. All Youth Opportunity programs offered by United Way NCA are provided at no cost to students attending a United Way NCA Community School.
What communities do these programs serve?
As of July 2026, United Way NCA supports Community School initiatives at the following schools across the National Capital Area:
- District of Columbia: Kelly Miller Middle School and H.D. Woodson High School
- Maryland: A. Mario Loiederman Middle School, Buck Lodge Middle School, and High Point High School
- Virginia: Francis C. Hammond Middle School and Walt Whitman Middle School
These are Title I schools and located in communities where students and families can benefit from additional academic, social, and community-based supports.
How can my school partner with United Way NCA?
United Way NCA selects Community School partners through a collaborative, data-informed process. We analyze community and school-level data and work closely with municipal leaders, school districts, and other public-sector partners to identify schools with the greatest needs and opportunities for impact. Based on this assessment, United Way NCA invites eligible schools and nonprofit organizations to apply to participate in its Community Schools initiative and Youth Opportunity programs.
How can I volunteer with youth opportunity programs?
Individuals interested in volunteering with United Way NCA’s Youth Opportunity programs should contact our Volunteer Engagement team at volunteer@uwnca.org. The team can provide information about current volunteer opportunities and upcoming events.
