Happy February UWGCV Supporters ?

We're continuing to feel the gratitude as we move into the new year. In this month's letter we have a few updates, events and things to look forward to that we want to share with you all! #UnitedIsTheWay

Honoring Black History Month: Join us in celebrating resilience, honoring history, and inspiring the future. We will continue to recognize the achievements, contributions, and legacies that continue to shape our nation this month and every month after. This is a time to reflect on the profound impact of Black Americans throughout history and recognize their enduring contributions to our nation.

 

What began in 1926, founded by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, evolved into a month-long celebration in 1976, officially recognized by President Gerald Ford. This annual observance not only honors the achievements of Black individuals in all aspects of society — science, politics, arts, activism, and beyond — but also acknowledges the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the pursuit of justice and equality.

 

Black history is American history, woven into the fabric of our communities, institutions, and cultural heritage. From the resilience of those who fought for freedom and civil rights to the groundbreaking innovations that continue to inspire progress, Black history is a story of strength, perseverance, and excellence. As we commemorate this month, we encourage reflection, education, and action — recognizing that the lessons of the past guide us toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Happy 211 Day!

 

February 10 (2/11) is the day we celebrate the incredible teams and resources that make up the necessary service that is 211 ❤️

 

211 does more than simply refer people to agencies. Trained specialists work to uncover the root causes of a problem and connect individuals with a broad range of resources — addressing not just their immediate need, but the underlying factors as well. By streamlining the social services network, 211 ensures that those in need are efficiently connected to the right agencies for support.

 

For more information, visit: https://www.greatrivers211.org/

 

 

GRATITUDE GALA

Same time next year? What a blast! Thank you so much to everyone that attended, sponsored and were recognized ❤️

 

Please let us know if you'd like any pictures sent to you and your team!

 

With it being the first time we've hosted this, we want to know how we did! Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X67Y5XS

Looking for a fun way to spend your time, networking, with people who also care about philanthropy? Emerging Leaders are your people! This dynamic group is designed to help participants increase their leadership impact in their organization, the social sector, and the community at large. In Emerging Leaders, you will discover, grow, and be energized. You will move forward with new resources and approaches for your unique leadership and personal journey.

 

Our Emerging Leaders are collaborative, great teammates, and good communicators. They seek others' input and opinions, use it to shape their ideas, and generate consensus. They have strong soft-skills and have emotional intelligence when it comes to dealing with others.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

When you support UWGCV, you are investing in innovative, research based and results-focused initiatives. These initiatives coordinate the work of local programs, service providers and community stakeholders in the Chippewa Valley. Each Program Partner is funded under a specific initiative that is driven by a bold goal that keeps everyone working toward the same mission.

Bold Goal:



Children in the Chippewa Valley will enter school ready to succeed.

Organization Description:

 

River Source Family Center (RSFC) is the family resource center in Chippewa County. Our program offers support, education, and connection opportunities to families with children, prenatal to 5 years of age. RSFC evidence-informed activities include Play & Learns, Movin' & Groovin' music class, Itty Bitty playgroups, Parent Cafés, home-based parent education (home visits), new parent support, and other family fun events. River Source provides universal access, welcoming ALL families to participate in programs, and offers connection opportunities throughout Chippewa County. Our programs focus on strength-based approaches and curriculum to support healthy child development and family well-being.

 

“River Source has given me the opportunity to connect with other parents and learn more tips, tricks, advice and perspectives to parenting. It’s also helped my son connect with other kids and learn to play and socialize.” - Group Connections Participant Quote

 

Mission: ALL parents/caregivers can use support and connection opportunities.

Parents/Caregivers are the first and most important teachers in their child’s life.

Diversity is a celebration of who we are as an individual and a community.

ALL families are welcome. Play IS learning. Children have the right to learn, grow, and thrive in their childhood.

River Source staff ready for the Halloween Play & Learn!

Cody, Becce, Amanda, Brenda, and Robin ☺️

Children learn through play. What a beautiful way to celebrate children's growth and development, by playing! This little guy is enjoying the Pajama Party Play & Learn he is attending!

How does UWGCV strengthen your program?

 

United Way strengthens community programs’ relationships through the Program Partner meetings. These informational meetings provide resource sharing and networking between community programs. These informational meetings provide resource sharing and networking. These provide the necessary connections that non-profit programs need to provide the best support possible for our participants.

 

Chippewa County Public Health Department Nurses and River Source Family Center maintain strong relationships through multiple programs at both agencies. The Public Health Nurses offer early health and well-being consultation through a variety of River Source programs. The Bright Starts SMILE Public Health Nurse meet monthly with RSFC Parent Educators to discuss the health, well-being, and development of the participants in the Bright Starts SMILE program. Public Health Nurses attend Itty Bitty playtime playgroups and share educational information with families on early health and well-being topics. This provided families with opportunities to hear educational information, meet a local Public Health Nurse, and connect families to local resources at the Chippewa County Public Health Department.

 

What is your greatest program need?

 

Our most important resource is our staff, who provide evidence-informed, strength-based, and free programs to families with young children. In order to retain our highly committed, passionate staff, and deliver the programming that is so vital to Chippewa County families, our greatest need is funding. Less funding to our program means there are less opportunities for families to build on their strengths and relationships with other families. Strong and healthy families are the foundation of strong and healthy communities. Strong families learn, connect, and grow together.

 

The newest and youngest participant of our Cornell Play &

Learn joining in on the fun!

Want to learn more?

Visit their website at www.riversourcefamilycenter.com

 

Becce Woestman

715-210-1841

rsfcparenteducator@fsccf.org

 

River Source Family Center

403 N High Street

Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. 54729



Stay connected with them:

Facebook  Web

Do you need a computer?

 

The United Way Greater Chippewa Valley Device Distribution Program has a goal of providing affordable computers to individuals, families, students, and workers. This program provides eligible households with a refurbished computer. We have options for Windows 11 devices ($40) or Chromebooks (Free). 

 

Please note: Chromebooks require access to the internet or hotspot for the devices to work.

 

Computers are limited to one per household. You must be a resident of Eau Claire County or Chippewa County. The devices distributed through United Way are sold “as is” and have been inspected by the supplier and United Way team.

 

Please complete ALL FIELDS below to the best of your knowledge to determine if you qualify for this program. 

 

If you have questions please email DigitalEquity@uwgcv.org or call 715-834-5043

 

Due to higher device requests than normal, we currently have a waitlist. By filling out this form, you will be added to our device waitlist. We will do our best to pair you with a device ASAP! 

 

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE DISTRIBUTION LIST

Did you know we offer a Digital Navigator Program? 

 

This program assists community members in using the Internet, Smart Phones, Computers, and much more. This service is 100% free and open to ALL residents of Chippewa and Eau Claire Counties. Digital Navigators will meet with residents who wish to further their digital skills and become more confident with using the internet.

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR DIGITAL NAVIGATOR

Keep up to date with all of our future United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley events. Find multiple ways to get involved and give back! We hope to see you at our upcoming events listed below:

37th Annual Golf Tournament ⛳️

Monday, June 2 2025 | Lake Wissota Golf & Events

 

Tell your boss you're taking Monday, June 2 off for a great cause (and a beautiful day of golf). Join us as we support the Chippewa Valley with our annual Golf Tournament.

Sign up link goes live next month!

 

  • $200.00 / Golfer
  • 4 Person Teams
  • 9:00am Registration
  • 10:00am Shotgun Start
  • Raffle + Silent Auction
  • Heavy hors d'oeuvres + Cash bar

 

All Sponsorship, Raffle Prize and Silent Auction inquires can be sent to Nick Swartz at nswartz@uwgcv.org ?

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
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Stay Connected! #UnitedIsTheWay