[New post] United Way holds graduation ceremony at Whitehead Elementary for KinderCamp program
Gerardo Zavala posted: "Roughly 100 Yolo County residents attended United Way's Yolo Family Festival at Whitehead Elementary School located at 624 W. Southwood Dr, celebrating the organization's 100th anniversary, culminating with a graduation ceremony for kids in the KinderCamp" Daily Democrat
Roughly 100 Yolo County residents attended United Way's Yolo Family Festival at Whitehead Elementary School located at 624 W. Southwood Dr, celebrating the organization's 100th anniversary, culminating with a graduation ceremony for kids in the KinderCamp program.
Dr. Dawnté Early, president and CEO of United Way California Capital Region, explained that KinderCamp is a United Way program created to take students who have not been to preschool and prepare them for kindergarten.
Dr. Dawnté Early, president and CEO of United Way California Capital Region, kicks off the organization's Family Festival Saturday in Woodland. The festival included the graduation ceremony for United Way's KinderCamp program. (Gerardo Zavala/Daily Democrat)
"For our 100-year anniversary, we have a goal of raising $3 million to help 10,000 kids excel in school by 2025, and this program is a part of that goal," she emphasized regarding KinderCamp. "School is square one for any family in poverty because we know that education really is the great equalizer. It opens up the door to jobs, resources and skills that help people not just survive but thrive."
United Way's website highlighted that nearly 50% of 3 and 4 years olds in the county do not experience preschool before starting Kindergarten in Yolo County.
KinderCamp helps address this issue by allowing students to participate in a variety of learning opportunities focused on increasing skills in math, literacy, social interactions, problem-solving and more, according to its website.
"Every day a child attends, the child returns home with a brand new book," the website added. "Children also receive a healthy lunch, participate in a weekly kids farmer's market and receive hygiene education."
Early stressed that "it is United Way's mission to build stronger, healthier and more compassionate communities" throughout its five counties, "including right here in Woodland."
"Our square one approach provides a continuum of services aimed at ending poverty for low-income families."
Early also thanked Sharna Braucks, CEO and president of YMCA of Superior California, and noted that Yolo County YMCA led the day-to-day program in the classroom.
Braucks spoke about the importance of the collaboration between the YMCA and United Way highlighting that "the early years of life are critical for their development and it is during this time that they learn the fundamental skills and knowledge that will shape their future," she remarked.
Dr. Richard Pan, former state senator and current United Way board member, high-fives a KinderCamp graduate after she receives her diploma Saturday in Woodland. (Gerardo Zavala/Daily Democrat)
She then applauded United Way for ensuring that the program is accessible to all families regardless of socioeconomic background.
"It recognizes the importance of inclusivity and aims to create a level playing field for every child, giving them an equal opportunity to thrive and succeed through a variety of engaging activities such as storytelling, arts and crafts, music and physical play," she stressed.
Additionally, she explained that KinderCamp allows children to develop essential skills that they will need as they begin their educational journeys including problem-solving, critical thinking, communication and teamwork.
"These skills not only lay the foundation for academic success but also foster creativity, resilience and a lifelong love of learning," she argued. "Children who attend KinderCamp are more likely to start school with enthusiasm and readiness and set them on a path toward long-term success."
According to the website, another pivotal partner in the program's success was the Woodland Joint Unified School District, which provided three classrooms and helped recruit students.
Yolo County Superintendent Garth Lewis thanked all the families and parents for investing their time and ensuring their children attended the program.
"Congratulations to all of our KinderCampers and we look forward to great things coming from you," he added.
Furthermore, the city of Woodland provided 20 books per child and police officers provided safety awareness for the program.
Mayor Victoria Fernandez and Mayor Pro-Tempore Tania Garcia-Cadena – former kindergarten and preschool teachers, respectively – both attended the event and provided words of encouragement for the KinderCampers and advice for parents.
"We look forward to seeing all the great things that you're going to do in your lives," Fernandez remarked. "I wish you lots of fun, lots of great books for you to enjoy and lots of hugs from your mom and dad. Have a great year."
Other partners include Empower Yolo, the Yolo County Office of Education, Yolo Food Bank, CommuniCare Health Center and community members.
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