United Way of Rock River Valley

United Way of Rock River Valley unites the collective power of our community to improve lives. We mobilize communities to action so all can thrive. Working together with our neighbors, we’re strengthening local youth opportunity, community resiliency, and financial security for all.

Every day, our communities show that change is possible when people unite to take action. Together, we’re creating a future where everyone, everywhere, can reach their full potential.

Youth Opportunity: United for Literacy

Our primary focus is increasing childhood literacy rates in Winnebago County and ensuring every child enters kindergarten ready to read. Research indicates that reading below the expected level in third grade is highly linked to future academic challenges and dropout, incarceration, and poverty rates. We work closely with literacy experts to craft a well-rounded approach that will help set children up for success. By reaching them at the earliest stages of learning (ages 0-5), we can help them prepare for the classroom and life. 

Community Resiliency: 211 Resource Referral Line

When facing a crisis, individuals and families need immediate access to reliable services and resources to meet their most urgent needs. Winnebago County’s 211 resource referral line, supported by UWRRV, is a critical resource that connects thousands of people to trained specialists offering help with crisis and emergency counseling, disaster assistance, food, health care and insurance, stable housing and utility assistance, employment services, veteran services, and childcare and family services.

The network supports multilingual services such as Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and more. For more information, visit www.unitedwayrrv.org. 

Community Resiliency: Strong Neighborhood House

Through collaborative partnerships with other local impact organizations, we provide a pathway for community residents to gain support through the programs and services offered at three SNH locations:

• Irving Avenue Strong Neighborhood House — 312 Irving Avenue, Rockford