United Way of Mahaska County: Enhancing Lives Through Community Support and Literacy Programs
Oskaloosa, IA – The United Way of Mahaska County continues its mission to combat food insecurity, promote literacy, and improve the overall well-being of the local community, with a particular focus on helping families and children. Led by director Michella Friesen, the organization has taken several impactful initiatives to make a positive difference in the lives of Mahaska County residents.
Tackling Food Insecurity and Filling Gaps
The United Way of Mahaska County has made strides in addressing youth food insecurity through its support of local programs, including initiatives that partner with area schools. Friesen emphasized the importance of the back-to-school program, which has been a significant resource for many families. “We continue to work to fill gaps within our community through the work we do with our Funded Partners,” she said. These efforts help ensure that children and families facing food insecurity receive much-needed support.
Launch of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library
In a major step forward for early childhood education, United Way has launched the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Mahaska County. This innovative program provides children from birth to age five with a free, age-appropriate book delivered to their homes each month. “These books are a great way to get children interested in literacy at an early age,” Friesen said. The program has already shown success, as families have expressed how much it has helped their children develop an interest in reading.
In addition to the Imagination Library, the organization’s literacy initiatives extend through third grade, supported by the Reading Corps program at Oskaloosa Elementary School. This program targets children who may not meet reading benchmarks but do not qualify for Title 1 reading assistance.
United Way of Mahaska County’s current fundraising campaign kicked off on September 11th with the annual Day of Caring. The organization aims to raise $350,000 this year, with every dollar staying within Mahaska County to support programs that benefit local families and individuals. Friesen expressed optimism that the community would rally behind this goal. “We know with the support of the community this is possible,” she stated.
The Day of Caring, a long-standing tradition, also highlighted the community’s generosity. Volunteers helped a local homeowner repair a damaged kitchen ceiling after a severe roof leak, improving the living conditions for the individual.
Success Stories and Testimonials
Friesen shared stories of how United Way’s programs have directly impacted families in Mahaska County. During the Back-to-School Fair, children received new shoes—sometimes the only new pair they get all year. One child, whose shoes were badly worn, received a new pair of name-brand basketball shoes. “The child was so excited for the new shoes that fit,” Friesen said. “He was excited to fit in with the other kids at school and no longer be made fun of because of the way his shoes looked.”
United Way also anticipates hearing more success stories from families participating in the Imagination Library in the coming months, as they continue to gather feedback from the community.
Looking Ahead
United Way of Mahaska County has more initiatives planned for the near future, including the unveiling of a new logo later this month. Friesen expressed excitement about these developments and the organization’s continued efforts to make a meaningful difference in Mahaska County.
As the organization moves forward with its campaign and upcoming events, the focus remains on supporting local families, advancing educational opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents in the community.
