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<title>My Star Readers Tutor Experience: Natalie Brown</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/natalie-brown-star-readers-tutor-experience/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:19:16 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>“It’s all about making a difference and seeing young minds learn and grow,” says Natalie Brown.</p>
<p>As a volunteer who provides students with extra support in reading, Natalie finds the role as a United Way<a href="https://www.readysetreadberks.org/"> Ready.Set.READ!</a> tutor a rewarding experience. “I witness growth in students’ reading abilities and their confidence levels.”</p>
<p>For the past two years, she has volunteered with the <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/">United Way</a> program one day a week throughout the school year at Millmont Elementary School in Reading. Why does Natalie commit to this volunteer role? She believes when kids have a solid foundation of reading skills in elementary school, it sets students up for success. “The programs provide one-on-one interaction between the student and the adult tutor, which also helps foster interpersonal skills and confidence.”</p>
<p>Natalie’s employer, <a href="https://www.firstenergycorp.com/fehome.html">FirstEnergy</a>, encourages volunteerism, and she first learned about the program through the company. Ready.Set.READ! helps children improve their reading and literacy skills as the end of third grade is an important milestone for children. Up until that time, children learn to read; in fourth grade, students read to learn.</p>
<p>The program connects trained volunteer tutors with second graders in varied local school districts. Nearly 255 volunteer tutors provide reading support to more than 275 students, and more volunteers are needed, representing all backgrounds. Volunteer tutors spend one hour a week helping second grade students boost reading skills. No experience is necessary – – all volunteers attend a training session; all books and supplies are provided.</p>
<p>Natalie finds her volunteer experience meaningful, engaging and fun. Her enthusiasm shines through these words. “I love the energy, learning and growing that takes place in these young minds. My daughters are in their 20s now, and I miss being around school-age kids. Mentoring and building relationships with future generations is an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up.”</p>
<p><em>To volunteer, contact Darby at <a href="darbyw@uwberks.org">darbyw@uwberks.org</a> or 610-685.4574. Visit <a href="https://https://www.readysetreadberks.org/star-readers-tutoring/">www.ReadySetReadBerks.org</a> to learn more.</em></p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/natalie-brown-star-readers-tutor-experience/">My Star Readers Tutor Experience: Natalie Brown</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>ELU Bettering Berks in June and July</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/elu-bettering-berks-in-june-and-july/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jul 2024 20:13:03 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News and Events]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.uwberks.org/?p=10065</guid>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>Despite the heat, ELU members continued to serve Berks County through June and July. ELU members made an impact by:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Attending our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7zRIFROCRo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">Mix and Mingle Like a Boss</a> session with Mike Iorio where ELU members learned the art of networking.</li>
<li>Providing support to the <a href="https://widoktadwen.org/">Widoktadwen Center of Native Knowledge</a> Good Medicine event.</li>
<li>Supporting the Big Cheese event by assisting with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8M93YmO9ki/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">the setup</a> and also participating in the event.</li>
<li>Learning about the work of United Way through our virtual “Do You Know United Way” session. You can access the session <a href="https://youtu.be/timZtm3uCwA">here</a>.</li>
<li>Attending United Way’s<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8xc-QpO5lw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA=="> Focus Area Friday</a> at the IM Able Foundation.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9xekHZuG3L/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">Creating back-to-school kits</a> for Reading School District students with Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading members.</li>
<li>Partnering with New Castle Lawn and Landscaping to clean up the Safe Berks property.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>In August, ELU members will have the opportunity to:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Partner with Big Brothers Big Sister COUL kids at a pizza party</li>
<li>Put their knowledge of United Way to the test at our Trivia Night at Mimmos.</li>
<li>Work with Reading Rugby in a clean up at Pendora Park</li>
</ul>
<p>Learn more and register for these upcoming events <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/elu-events/">here</a>.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/elu-bettering-berks-in-june-and-july/">ELU Bettering Berks in June and July</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>ELU Member Spotlight: Alap Shah</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/elu-member-spotlight-alap-shah/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jul 2024 19:56:49 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[ELU Member Spotlight]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.uwberks.org/?p=10157</guid>
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<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="https://www.uwberks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Alap-Shah-for-website.jpg" alt="Man in suit smiling at camera" title="Alap Shah for website" srcset="https://www.uwberks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Alap-Shah-for-website.jpg 300w, https://www.uwberks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Alap-Shah-for-website-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" class="wp-image-10155" /></span>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Alap Shah joined Emerging Leaders United (ELU) because he wanted to make a tangible impact on his community. “I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself and contribute to the positive change happening in our area,” he shared. His passion for community service and leadership led him to this role, where he could collaborate with like-minded individuals to drive meaningful initiatives.</p>
<p>For Alap, being part of the ELU Cabinet means being actively involved in creating opportunities and supporting those in need. “The chance to work alongside dedicated and passionate people is incredibly rewarding,” he said. His commitment to ELU’s mission is evident in his enthusiasm for the projects and events they organize, all aimed at making a difference in Berks County.</p>
<p>One of the most fulfilling aspects for Alap has been witnessing the direct impact of their efforts. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces and knowing that our work is making a difference is truly inspiring,” he noted. Whether it’s through garden clean up projects, packaging events, or holiday events, Alap is dedicated to fostering a spirit of service and collaboration within the ELU community.</p>
<p>Alap’s involvement in the ELU Cabinet has not only allowed him to contribute to important causes but has also provided him with valuable personal growth opportunities. “I’ve learned so much from my fellow cabinet members and the people we serve. It’s been a transformative experience,” he reflected. His journey with ELU continues to be a source of inspiration and motivation, driving him to continue to learn the needs of the community and make an impact.</p>
<p>In his free time, Alap enjoys exploring new places and spending time with family and friends. His dedication to making a difference extends beyond his role in the ELU Cabinet, as he continually seeks ways to give back and support his community. “It’s about leaving a lasting impact and knowing that we’re all in this together,” he concluded.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/elu-member-spotlight-alap-shah/">ELU Member Spotlight: Alap Shah</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Daniel’s Journey of Recovery with Tower Health at Home and United Way</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/daniels-journey-of-recovery/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:08:43 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Success Stories]]></category>
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<p>It was a night that Kathy Griess will never forget. Her husband, Daniel, came home from his evening shift as a BARTA bus driver and went to sleep. When she went to wake him, his speech was incomprehensible. She called 911, and her then 74-year old husband was admitted to the hospital after suffering a massive stroke on the left side of his brain, causing mobility and vision issues.</p>
<p>Kathy recalls the fear and the thoughts that raced through her head as she sat next to her husband of nearly 40 years. “Could we remain in our home? I’m visually impaired, so he is my eyes,” Kathy said. “It was very traumatic. It’s just the two of us.”</p>
<p>During his hospital stay, Daniel met with a nurse and speech therapist with <a href="https://towerhealthathome.org/">Tower Health Home,</a> a United Way <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/agency-partners/">agency partner</a>, for evaluation, and upon discharge, speech therapy continued. Krista, the speech therapist, worked with Daniel on verbal comprehension and communication strategies.</p>
<p>While Daniel was recovering, the couple lost a beloved dog. To fill the void, Kathy adopted a golden doodle who had been abused. About seven weeks later, she had a litter of puppies, which lifted Daniel’s spirits, as well as served as an excellent conversation piece. “Krista encouraged him to talk about them as part of the therapy sessions,” explained Kathy. “She was a Godsend.”</p>
<p>Daniel’s neurologist later told Kathy only about 20% of people survive the type of stroke Daniel had, and it was even more unlikely he would talk again. “I didn’t expect Daniel would come this far in 18 months; he is now able to hold casual conversations. We are indebted to Krista and the agency’s tremendous support,” says Kathy. “We think Tower Health at Home is a wonderful thing.”</p>
<p>You change lives by supporting United Way.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/daniels-journey-of-recovery/">Daniel’s Journey of Recovery with Tower Health at Home and United Way</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Responding to Crisis: American Red Cross Impacts Berks County</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/responding-to-crisis-american-red-cross-impact-in-berks-county-2/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:55:26 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Last July, a massive storm system hit Berks County with 5” to 8” inches of rain causing flash flooding in multiple areas. <a href="http://www.redcross.org/pa/reading">American Red Cross PA Rivers Chapter</a>, a United Way <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/agency-partners/">agency partner</a>, jumped into action by providing shelter for residents of a Reading apartment complex, with additional calls for help coming from the areas of Antietam, Muhlenberg and Fleetwood. Simultaneously, Red Cross canvassed neighborhoods to assist in tracking damaged, destroyed and uninhabitable homes and calculated damage estimates. Over the course of the week, Red Cross provided support to more than 100 clients, with 88 shelter stays, distributed nearly 200 cleanup kits and provided 374 meals.</p>
<p>The Red Cross opened 33 cases for families whose homes were destroyed or unlivable, providing almost $30,000 in immediate financial assistance. This was the first significant flooding event in several years for Berks County, and the Red Cross was able to provide support for many in collaboration with partners and municipalities. During this same period, Red Cross volunteers responded to several home fires in Berks County to provide comfort and care to the affected families. Funding from the United Way of Berks County enables the Red Cross to have trained volunteers, supplies, and the financial resources to meet community needs when disaster strikes.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/responding-to-crisis-american-red-cross-impact-in-berks-county-2/">Responding to Crisis: American Red Cross Impacts Berks County</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Empowering Abilities: Danielle’s Success Story with Threshold/Berks Personnel Network and United Way</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/responding-to-crisis-american-red-cross-impact-in-berks-county/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:41:52 +0000</pubDate>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Danielle is a vibrant and joyful 22-year-old who works hard to extend beyond her intellectual and developmental disability. With help from <a href="http://www.trsinc.org/">Threshold/Berks Personnel Network</a>, supported by United Way of Berks County, she is able to work independently in a role she enjoys within the laundry and housekeeping department at the DoubleTree Hotel.</p>
<p>BPN provides services to individuals with a range of physical, mental health, and intellectual developmental disabilities to support them in achieving integrated employment in the community. For Danielle, the service provided job coaching, helped negotiate a work schedule, arranged transportation to and from work arranged and developed a plan to focus on positive interaction with coworkers and job stability. She is proud to celebrate nearly two years of employment and job success, thanks to your support of United Way funded programs like BPN.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/responding-to-crisis-american-red-cross-impact-in-berks-county/">Empowering Abilities: Danielle’s Success Story with Threshold/Berks Personnel Network and United Way</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Edward’s Story with Meals on Wheels and United Way</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/edwards-story-with-meals-on-wheels-and-united-way/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:37:46 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Success Stories]]></category>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-10116 size-medium alignright" src="https://www.uwberks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Berks-Encore-Meals-on-Wheels-Photo-2-smaller-300x300.jpg" alt="Elderly man receiving meal from Meals on Wheels volunteer smiling at camera while sitting in recliner chair." width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p>At age 99, Edward is a proud WWII Navy Veteran who has received more than a dozen medals and commendations for saving his ship from sinking when it was attacked. Edward is an American hero; he is also a <a href="https://berksencore.org/aging-services-in-berks-county-pa/">Meals on Wheels</a> recipient, thanks to your support of the United Way funded program.</p>
<p>Since the death of his wife of 71 years, he lives independently in his own home. The meals provide Edward with daily nutrition and the support he needs to stay healthy. His daughter-in-law, Cheryl, is thankful for Meals on Wheels. “It has been a blessing for him and our family. The volunteers who deliver the meals provide me with a piece of mind by checking on him each day.” Edward suffers from shortness of breath and has difficulty walking. The family values the extra support.</p>
<p>In Berks County, 26% of seniors live alone, with nearly 12% living below the poverty line. They are veterans, retired schoolteachers, factory workers and other essential workers. They are our parents and grandparents. Your United Way support helps our agency partner, <a href="https://berksencore.org/">Berks Encore</a>, provide nourishing weekday meals to more than 630 seniors each week throughout Berks County.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/edwards-story-with-meals-on-wheels-and-united-way/">Edward’s Story with Meals on Wheels and United Way</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Matt’s Journey to Independence with United Way and Mary’s Shelter</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/matts-journey-to-independence-with-united-way-and-marys-shelter/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:24:18 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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<p>At 17, Matt’s world fell apart. His parents left him and his younger siblings; his siblings were able to be with other family members. Matt was suddenly left on his own. After weeks of couch-surfing with different friends, he found <a href="https://marysshelter.org/">Mary’s Shelter</a>. Matt took advantage of its <a href="https://www.marysshelter.org/residential">Youth Empowerment Supportive Services (YESS)</a>, which is supported by United Way. Even though he experienced anxiety, which impacted him physically and emotionally, Matt was determined to remain in school and work to earn good grades.</p>
<p>Through the YESS program, Matt received counseling and participated in programming to help him work towards self-sufficiency. After graduating high school, Matt secured a full-time job and moved into his own apartment. He credits the United Way supported program with helping him regain his self-worth. Matt came into the program broken and defeated and left as a confident and capable young man.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/matts-journey-to-independence-with-united-way-and-marys-shelter/">Matt’s Journey to Independence with United Way and Mary’s Shelter</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>How Dylan Found Joy in Reading Thanks to United Way and Read Alliance</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/how-dylan-found-joy-in-reading-thanks-to-united-way-and-read-alliance/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:15:17 +0000</pubDate>
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<p>Meet Dylan, a first grader at Riverside Elementary. His family supported his participation in <a href="https://www.readysetreadberks.org/read-alliance/">Read Alliance</a> because he struggled with reading; his reading skills were at a kindergarten level. Dylan was matched with Gio, his teen tutor. Together, they worked hard to master the phonics-based curriculum and Dylan’s reading improved throughout the program. When he was asked how he felt about learning, he shared, “I always wanted to read and learn because I didn’t like not knowing how to read.”</p>
<p>Megan Klan, Dylan’s teacher, shared Dylan’s bond with Gio motivated his commitment to reading. Working one-on-one practicing reading with Gio was Dylan’s favorite part of the day. Dylan jumped two reading levels and with continued practice over the summer he should be on reading level for second grade. Dylan is a more confident student and now volunteers to read aloud in the classroom; he recently shared, “I like to read so much!”</p>
<p>YOUR support of United Way helps Dylan and other students grow their love of reading and improve their reading skills. Together, we are putting students on the path of academic success. Thank you!</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/how-dylan-found-joy-in-reading-thanks-to-united-way-and-read-alliance/">How Dylan Found Joy in Reading Thanks to United Way and Read Alliance</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>2024 Blueprint for Leadership and Leadership Berks Graduation</title>
<link>https://www.uwberks.org/blog/2024-blueprint-for-leadership-and-leadership-berks-graduation/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shirley Chapin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 20 Jun 2024 19:24:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>We recently celebrated the participants of two of our Leadership United programs, Blueprint for Leadership (BFL) and Leadership Berks (LB), with a joint graduation ceremony. The unofficial theme of the event was <em>courage</em>, a sentiment echoed by participants of both programs.</p>
<p>The ceremony began with a welcome from Tammy White, President of United Way of Berks County, followed by words of gratitude from Jean Morrow and Mary Jimenez. They thanked the individuals, organizations, and businesses that supported both programs by hosting sessions, serving on panels, or providing tours of their facilities. Special thanks were also extended to Sharon Mast for her involvement with both programs.</p>
<p>After the 14 BFL graduates were presented with their certificates, class president Michelle Leguisamon-Tineo shared her experience with BFL. Initially reluctant to serve as class president because of her discomfort with public speaking and English not being her first language, Michelle stood confidently before nearly 300 attendees, expressing her appreciation for her classmates and the program. “But look at me now,” she said, highlighting her personal growth as she conquered her fear of public speaking.</p>
<p>Following Michelle’s inspiring message, the 33 LB participants received their certificates. LB graduates Kristina Kullman and Kristen Gates spoke about the program’s impact on their lives and how courage has allowed them to be the leaders they are today. Kullman recounted moving to Berks County during a challenging time, starting a new job without knowing anyone in the community, and relying on her family during her “highest highs and lowest lows.” Gates shared her personal story as a survivor of domestic abuse and the courage it took to escape. “In that moment, I knew that I needed better, not just for myself, but for my two young daughters,” she said. She also described the support and leadership she experienced from her classmates after a session discussing experiences that were similar to hers.</p>
<p>The program concluded with Sharon Mast, who continued the theme of courage by sharing her plans for retirement. She spoke about how vulnerability and courage are intermingled, noting that while people admire courageous individuals, they often overlook the vulnerability that courage requires. She emphasized the importance of consistent self-reflection, a practice that was encouraged throughout both programs. Sharon expressed her pride in the journey and the courage each graduate has shown, ending with six words that encapsulate the essence of leadership: “Look up, look out, and look in.”</p>
<p>Blueprint for Leadership is a six-week program designed to prepare individuals from under-represented groups for leadership on diverse nonprofit boards. Recruitment for BFL begins in the fall. Learn more on the <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blueprint-for-leadership/">website</a>.</p>
<p>Leadership Berks is a nine-month program dedicated to giving local professionals the tools they need to serve in key volunteer leadership positions with local nonprofits. Recruitment for the LB program is currently underway. Learn more on the <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/leadership-berks/">website</a>.</p></div>
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</div></p>The post <a href="https://www.uwberks.org/blog/2024-blueprint-for-leadership-and-leadership-berks-graduation/">2024 Blueprint for Leadership and Leadership Berks Graduation</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.uwberks.org">United Way of Berks County</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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