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On December 13, New York Giant Chris Canty hosted a holiday party benefiting 125 students at P.S. 179 in the Bronx.  Dressed as Santa, Canty presented each child with a toy from his or her holiday wish list.  Children also enjoyed pizza and games in addition to their visit with Santa. 

P.S. 179 is a participating school in United Way of New York City's Supporting Transitions from Early-education to Public School (STEPS) initiative, which seeks to improve early grade literacy by ensuring that a child's learning and developmental needs are continuously met during the first eight years of life.

In order to volunteer as either a financial coach or tax preparer, volunteers must complete a training course that will be held at United Way of New York City’s offices located at 2 Park Avenue in Midtown.  Training dates are as follows:

Tax Training: Tuesday, January 3 - Thursday, January 5: 5:30pm-8:30pm (must attend all three)

Financial Coach Training: Saturday January 7: 10am-4pm

After completion of training, Tax Prep and Financial Coaching volunteers are asked to commit to one 3-4 hour shift per week through tax season which runs from late January through April.

If you are interested in registering for MoneyUP, please click here and complete the registration form.  You will receive an email with directions on how to register for a specific training session shortly after you complete your registration.

You can find additional details on MoneyUP volunteering here.

New York (December 8, 2011) – In his most intimate performances in years, Shawn "JAY Z" Carter will headline at Carnegie Hall, in the Stern Auditorium, raising millions for United Way of New York City and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation on February 6, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. and February 7, 2012 at 9:30 p.m.  Concert goers will get a once in a lifetime experience as JAY Z takes the stage at the New York landmark to raise dollars that will help boost on-time graduation rates in underserved New York City schools and put college within reach for low-income students across the five boroughs.

"It's every artist's dream to play a venue as legendary as Carnegie Hall," commented Shawn "JAY Z" Carter.  "The fact that I can use the arts and my talent to benefit the education of the next generation of artists, entrepreneurs, and great thinkers makes for a legendary night.  I'm proud to be a part of the continuing work of United Way of New York City and expanding the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation."

Poverty has the strongest correlation to dropout rates. New York City has the largest income gap in the U.S., and thirty percent of children in New York City live in poverty. Because of statistics like these, coupled with the fact that thirty-nine percent of New York City students who enter high school will not graduate on time, United Way of New York City, The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation and Shawn "JAY Z" Carter are engaging activists and philanthropists to provide resources and opportunities for students.

"United Way is dedicated to helping low-income New Yorkers build better lives, and we know that the greatest antidote to poverty is education," said Gordon J. Campbell, CEO, United Way of New York City.  "For more than 20 years, we have been active in early childhood centers and public schools, working with educators, families and students to address barriers to success inside and outside the classroom.  We are so pleased to partner with JAY Z and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation, who share our belief that every child deserves a great education."   

"It will be a thrill to welcome JAY Z to Carnegie Hall as he joins an illustrious list of top popular artists who have appeared at the Hall throughout its history," said Clive Gillinson, Carnegie Hall's Executive and Artistic Director.  "It's wonderful that he and the United Way of New York City have come together with the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation for these performances, putting a spotlight on an important cause, creating greater access to higher education."

Beginning on Monday, December 12th, information about benefit packages will be available at www.unitedwaynyc.org or www.shawncartersf.com.

In addition, a limited number of single tickets will be offered to the public on Monday, January 30th, 2012 at 11:00 AM (EST).   For more information on limited single tickets, please visit www.carnegiehall.org as of January 30.

For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jamie Rose at Jamie@missionbig.com or Mary Micevych at mmicevych@uwnyc.org.

ABOUT SHAWN "JAY Z" CARTER
Since 1996, 13-time Grammy award winner, Shawn "JAY Z" Carter has dominated the evolution of hip-hop.  Between multiple businesses and accolades spanning the recording industry to global investment leaders such as Warren Buffet, Jay personifies the "American Dream." Indeed, as the Founder and Chairman of Rocawear, he is a co-owner of the NJ Nets, the majority owner of the 40/40 sports clubs. He also has a major interest in Translation Advertising and Carol’s Daughter skin line, as well being involved in a partnership with the Iconix Brand Group.
JAY Z served as President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, where he fostered the careers of international stars Rihanna, Ne-Yo and Kanye West before entering into a partnership with Live Nation to form Roc Nation.  With his collaborative effort with Kanye West, WATCH THE THRONE, his 12th #1 album, he has secured the record for most #1 albums by any solo artist.  JAY Z continues his philanthropic work through his Water For Life initiative and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation.

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF NEW YORK CITY
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. We design and invest in evidence-based programs that help low-income New Yorkers achieve educational success, income stability and good health.  We rigorously evaluate our work and use lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty and achieving their potential.

We believe that poverty’s greatest antidote is education.  We partner with educators and families to ensure that children from low-income neighborhoods are reading proficiently by the time they complete third grade – a vital foundation for success in middle school, high school and beyond.  We also work to improve on-time graduation rates and college readiness in 60 underserved public schools through intensive academic, social, and emotional support for students at high risk of dropping out.

ABOUT SHAWN CARTER SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation was conceived of in 2002 and officially established as a 501(c)3 public charity in 2003 by Shawn & Gloria Carter. With an original vision and mission to help individuals facing socio-economic hardships further his or her education at institutions of higher learning, Shawn and Gloria Carter kicked off the Foundation’s efforts by awarding one student with full college tuition in 2002. From 2003 to 2005, each year the Foundation provided 50 scholarships to students in 50 different states. In 2006, in addition to providing scholarship awards to a growing number of students in need, the Foundation launched the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation College Tours. Since the Since Foundation’s inception, over 750 students have received awards totaling over $1.3 million dollars. The Foundation is currently on the precipice of growth and is reviewing its current grant-making priorities as it plans for expansion as the Shawn Carter Foundation.

Press Contacts:
Ter`rece Walker
Sunshine Sachs
walker@sunshinesachs.com
212.691.2800

Julie Cloutier
Sunshine Sachs
cloutier@sunshinesachs.com
212.691.2800

Jana Fleishman
Roc Nation
jf@rocnation.com
212.833.4083

Dan Silverman
Sunshine Sachs
149 Fifth Avenue, 7th Floor
New York, NY 10010
P: 212-691-2800
F: 212-691-2670
Silverman@sunshinesachs.com

The NFL's PLAY 60 is the league's campaign to encourage kids to be active for 60 minutes a day in order to help reverse the trend of childhood obesity. NFL PLAY 60 and United Way are working together to provide new, fun opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles and encouraging kids to play at least 60 minutes every day.

"United Way of NYC is committed to improving health for vulnerable New Yorkers and the key is to establish healthy habits at a young age," said UWNYC President and CEO Gordon Campbell. "With so many football fans in the area, the NFL sets a great example by both getting kids up and active, and helping provide the on-the-ground tools kids need to live a healthy lifestyle in their own communities."

"Just 60 minutes of physical activity a day can make a world of difference in combating obesity and is something our employees and players believe in strongly," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "Partnering with United Way of New York City allows us to reach kids where we can have a meaningful and positive impact on youth development and help some future football players and their fans throughout New York City." 

The Expeditionary Learning School for Community Leaders (2630 Benson Ave, Brooklyn, NY) is a participant in United Way's citywide Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC) initiative—a robust and targeted dropout prevention program that works to ensure that high school students graduate on time, ready for college. CAMBA, a New York based non-profit that serves community needs by creating individualized service-oriented programming, is United Way's community-based partner in administering GPS-NYC at the school.

The 13th Annual Hometown Huddle is part of United Way's nationwide call-to-action for individuals to LIVE UNITED©—to give, advocate and volunteer on issues relating to education, income or health.  United Way has declared bold, 10-year goals in each of those three areas.  In the area of health, the goal is to increase by one-third the percentage of healthy youth and adults by 2018.  In addition to United Way's citywide GPS-NYC initiative, other efforts include UWNYC's Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start project, which impacts nutrition policies, increases nutrition literacy and healthy food consumption at NYC Head Start centers. UWNYC also works to improve the health and nutritional status of New Yorkers as the local administrator for the New York State Department of Health's Hunger Prevention Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP).

United Way of New York City and partners like the NFL work together to create innovative new strategies and partnerships across all sectors—businesses, nonprofits, governments and individuals—to ultimately help children and families across the City live healthier and more successful lives. 

**Photos Available at www.unitedwaynyc.org/hometownhuddle**

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About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs.  With a focus on education, income and health—the building blocks of a good life—UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. United Way's GPS-NYC initiative helps high school students with a history of chronic absenteeism graduate on time and be ready for college. For more information, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

About NFL PLAY 60
Designed to tackle childhood obesity, NFL PLAY 60 brings together the NFL's long standing commitment to youth health and fitness with an impressive roster of partner organizations like United Way. In addition to national outreach and online programs, PLAY 60 is implemented at the grassroots level through NFL's in-school, after-school and team-based programs. Since the program was launched in 2007, the NFL has committed more than $250 million to youth health and fitness through programming, grants, and media time for public service announcements.  To learn more, visit nflrush.com/play60.

About CAMBA
CAMBA is one of Brooklyn's largest community-based organizations.  Founded in 1977 as a merchants' block association, the agency has grown in direct response to the needs of the Brooklyn community and beyond.  Today, CAMBA provides services to 45,000 individuals and families annually through an integrated set of six program areas:  Economic Development, Education and Youth Development, Family Support Services, HIV/AIDS Services, Housing Services and Development, and Legal Services.  With over 50 locations throughout Brooklyn and across the City, we have deep ties to the communities in which we operate.  Through our comprehensive continuum of care, CAMBA provides services which connect people with opportunities to enhance their quality of life.

UCLA basketball player, lawyer, and family man are just a few of the goals that 15-year-old Luis has for himself. Quiet with an endearing smile, Luis is wise beyond his years. When he realized that the lengthy commute to his previous school was hindering his academic progress, he asked for a transfer and enrolled at Urban Assembly for Media Studies High School.

Now in the tenth grade, he thanks United Way of New York City's Graduate, Prepare, Succeed (GPS-NYC) program for helping him recover the credits he lost and re-engage with school. "It's much better now—I come to school early and get good grades; it feels good here," Luis says with a smile. "I'm comfortable with more people, and I play sports so I'm friends with a lot more people now." Basketball is a big part of his life, and this year his team went to the playoffs with a 16-1 record!

GPS is a dropout prevention initiative that targets ninth-grade students with a history of chronic absenteeism and provides them with afterschool and extended-learning opportunities, attendance outreach, counseling, and family involvement. GPS counselors give students like Luis a safe space in which they can feel supported in their academic and life endeavors. Ms. Tavi, a GPS counselor, is currently working with Luis to help him find summer activities and possibly a part time job. She says, "We want him to stay engaged."

"Usually I'll say ‘This is what I want,' but I never pushed myself. GPS tries to get me to go to college fairs early, and since I was talking about taking care of my family, they are trying to get me a job," Luis says. Since becoming involved in GPS, Luis has had the extra support he needs to stay in school and focus on the things that matter most to him. "You can't achieve goals if you are always absent," he says. His goals for this year? "To be myself and stay positive."

Lower Income NYers More Willing to Act
New York, NY - United Way of New York City (UWNYC) today announced the results of a city-wide poll that found 67% of New Yorkers are concerned someone they know will need help getting and paying for food in the coming twelve months. Fully half (50%) of New Yorkers consider hunger a “major problem” facing the city and more than three-quarters (78%) think the federal government has a responsibility to step in even amid a recession.

“Two out of three people in this city believe someone they know will need help getting food in the coming year, a reality that is unfathomable in one of the richest cities in the world,” said United Way of New York City Senior Vice President for Community Investment Jennifer Jones Austin. “The vast majority of New Yorkers think the federal government should take the lead in helping combat hunger, and instead we’re seeing historic cuts to services.”

Other major findings include:
Most New Yorkers think hunger is a problem (84%). More than three in five – would assume that both the number of New Yorkers who go hungry (69%). increased and demand for food assistance at food pantries (63%) has increased in the past year or two. And fully half assume those numbers have increased a lot (49% and 46%, respectively), not just a little; they also believe New York’s food pantries serve more families with children, including working families, than in previous years. Two in five (38%) of New Yorkers say they (16%) or a family member (8%) or both (13%) bought less healthy foods because they were cheaper than buying fresh foods. Thirty-six percent (36%) of New Yorkers say they (15%) or a family member (9%) or both (12%) had difficulty paying for food or groceries. Thirty-three percent (33%) of New Yorkers say they (14%) or a family member (10%) or both (9%) chose between paying for food and rent or some other household expense. One-quarter (24%) say they (10%) or a family member (10%) or both (4%) have had to turn to family members or friends to help pay for food or groceries. One-quarter (23%) say they (9%) or a family member (6%) or both (8%) skipped meals or ate less because they could not afford food for three meals a day. Just over one in ten (13%) say they personally (6%), a family member (5%), or both (2%) received food from a food pantry.

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), also administered by UWNYC, provides support to low-income New Yorkers on an emergency basis to prevent hunger, preserve housing, provide shelter, and support their basic energy needs. This past year, EFSP supported 234 soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters who, in turn, served one million meals and distributed 1.5 million bags of food.

In February 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded United Way of New York City $2 million to promote hunger free communities. With the grant, UWNYC is leading the Hunger Free Communities Consortium, a partnership of NYC’s leading nonprofit and governmental anti-hunger, nutrition, and aging organizations working to significantly reduce hunger and improve nutrition throughout the city.

Jennifer Jones Austin added, “Part of what makes the work of United Way so powerful is that when we see a need, we bring together tremendous resources to help meet it, and that’s what we’re doing in combating the challenge of rising hunger in New York. United Way of New York City is working to improve access to food when New Yorkers need it most, and to ensure that families receive nutritious food, not just empty calories.”

Toplines are available for viewing at: www.unitedwaynyc.org/2011hungersurvey

Methodology
United Way of New York City commissioned Global Strategy Group to conduct a telephone survey of 700 New York City adults with oversamples of 100 African-American and 100 Latino adults. The survey was conducted between August 2 and 8, 2011 in both English and Spanish.
The base sample was fielded using an RDD methodology. The oversamples were conducted using targeted RDD sample for high density African-American and Latino census tracts. All interviews were conducted on landline telephones. The margin of error on the overall sample is +/-3.7%. The margin of error is larger at the subgroup level.

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About United Way of New York City
United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs. With a focus on education, income and health – the building blocks of a good life – UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. UWNYC rigorously evaluates its work and uses lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty by improving educational outcomes, strengthening financial stability, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

New York, NY – United Way of New York City's LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk drew thousands of New Yorkers, community leaders, and teams from the business, government and nonprofit sectors to help raise awareness of the need to "bridge" critical gaps in education, income stability and health that affect poor and low-income New Yorkers. More than 3,000 participants gathered in Foley Square and walked across the Brooklyn Bridge to Cadman Plaza Park for a Volunteer Festival featuring live music, food, activities for children and youth, plus dozens of nonprofit organizations from all five boroughs offering volunteer opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages.

“The thousands of us who walked today including elected officials, community leaders and concerned New Yorkers recognize just how bad things have gotten and are committed to doing something about it,” said United Way of New York City President and CEO Gordon Campbell. “The latest data remind us that we must all do more to help low-income New Yorkers achieve greater economic stability, educational success and good health. Every one of us has a role to play in creating pathways out of poverty.”

“Providing a strong educational foundation for our citizens is essential to the economic future of our city and country,” said New York City Department of Education Chancellor Dennis Walcott. “I’m grateful to United Way and our other partners for their efforts to increase public awareness around the importance of ensuring that every child has access to high-quality educational opportunities.”

“Skanska is proud to be the lead sponsor of United Way’s LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk for the second year in a row. This event is a perfect example of how New Yorkers from all walks of life can come together to make our city better. As a construction company, making cities better places to live, work and play is what we do every day, whether it’s building new bridges and parks, or constructing greener buildings and safer highway,” said Skanska USA Building President Bill Flemming. “Working with the United Way, we know we can help make a difference in the lives of the city’s most vulnerable residents.”

“Guardian is very proud to be a sponsor of the LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk," said Deanna M. Mulligan, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. "For more than 150 years, Guardian has been committed to helping New Yorkers and other Americans secure greater financial protection, and achieve better health and well being.  Guardian is both honored and pleased to join with United Way of New York City to shed light on the critical challenges facing so many New Yorkers, and to be a catalyst for change."

“National Grid is a proud sponsor of the LIVE UNITED Brooklyn Bridge Walk.  The event is a unique opportunity to celebrate teamwork at National Grid while supporting United Way programs,” said Rudy Wynter, National Grid Senior Vice President for Shared Services and United Way board member.  “National Grid has a long-standing partnership with United Way, helping to make a huge difference in the communities we both live in and serve.”

Today’s Bridge Walk and Volunteer Festival helped raise awareness about critical gaps in education, income and health in our city that have contributed to the fact that:

• One in five New Yorkers live below the poverty line, which for a family of three means earning less than $18,000 a year.
• 30% of New York City children under the age of 18 live in poverty.
• 56% of New York City public school students in grades 3 through 8 read below grade level and 39% of New York City students who enter ninth grade fail to graduate with their peers four years later.
• One in four New Yorkers lives in a household that can't afford enough food. Forty percent of New York City children in Head Start are obese or overweight.

Dollars raised will help fund United Way's outcome-driven programs that are working to ensure substantially higher graduate rates, improved income stability, and healthier lifestyles for vulnerable New Yorkers.

The Volunteer Festival featured live music by local bands Son de Brooklyn, Superhero, and Sesame Flyers; a family zone with stilt walkers, face painters, and arts and crafts; sports activities for youth and teens; interactive pavilions to learn about United Way’s work in education, income and health; and the chance to visit with dozens of local nonprofit groups seeking volunteer assistance throughout the year.

All walkers received complimentary health snacks and beverages courtesy of Driscoll Foods, Dr. Pepper/Snapple Group, Food Should Taste Good, and KIND Healthy Snacks. The festival featured 10 specialty food trucks including Organic Carts NYC, Rickshaw Dumpling Bar, Mexicue NY, Kimchi Taco Truck, Treats Truck and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City fights poverty across the five boroughs.  With a focus on education, income and health – the building blocks of a good life -- UWNYC designs and invests in evidence-based programs that ensure low-income New Yorkers have both a safety net and a springboard to a better life. UWNYC rigorously evaluates its work and uses lessons learned to advance citywide policies and practices that support New Yorkers in overcoming poverty by improving educational outcomes, strengthening financial stability, and promoting healthier lifestyles. The LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk and Festival brings attention to  critical needs and educates the public on ways they can help by volunteering in their own communities.

About Skanska USA

Skanska USA is one of the largest, most financially sound construction networks in the country serving a broad range of industries including healthcare, education, sports, data centers, government, aviation, transportation, and water/wastewater. Headquartered in New York with 35 offices across the country, Skanska USA employs approximately 7,000 employees committed to sustainable construction and an injury-free workplace. Skanska USA Building, which specializes in building construction, and Skanska USA Civil, which is focused on civil infrastructure, generated $4.8 billion in revenue in 2010, representing 31 percent of Skanska’s global construction revenues. Additional operations in the U.S. include Skanska USA Commercial Development, which pursues commercial development initiatives in select U.S. markets, and Skanska Infrastructure Development Americas, which develops public-private partnerships. Global revenue of parent company Skanska AB, headquartered in Stockholm and listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, totaled $16.9 billion in 2010.

The 10th anniversary of 9-11 is considered a landmark timeframe for many families who suffered losses in the terrorist attacks and many families will be travelling to the city for the first time. It is the goal of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance Program to help these families navigate and cope with the events, which may be overwhelming for some.

The first objective of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program is to issue grants to families that are financially unable to travel to and stay in New York City for the 10th anniversary of 9-11. The program hopes to give families the opportunity to witness and experience commemorative events first-hand, in an atmosphere of community and caring. “It’s important to give people the opportunity to participate in commemorative activities and be around others who have shared similar experiences. It’s a great step on the path to healing,” said April Naturale, PhD and head of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program.

The second objective of the program is to set up and run “Family Support Centers” which will be located near the commemoration site and in other, non-disclosed locations. These spaces will be safe, media free spaces where family members can escape from the crowds and gather with other family members or just take time for themselves in a quiet space. There will be supportive services available in the “Family Support Centers” such as mental health professionals, group counseling, pastoral care, mind/body supports and other hospitality services to help make the family’s time at the commemoration easier.

Another component of the 9-11 Healing and Remembrance program is a toll-free, 24 hour crisis intervention hotline that can be accessed by anyone in the 9-11 community who is in need of 9-11 related mental health support and information about commemorative events. This hotline (1-866-212-0444) will run through September 2012. Events and other supportive resources will also be available on the program’s website at www.9-11HealingandRemembrance.org.

The main push and message of the program is to encourage people to not be alone on this landmark anniversary. Anniversaries can be difficult for some and help is still available.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) creates, leads and supports strategic initiatives that seek to achieve lasting city-wide improvements in the education, income stability, and health of New Yorkers. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

UWNYC and The New York Community Trust established The September 11th Fund to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of the victims, families and communities affected by the terror attacks. The September 11th Fund collected $534 million from more than two million donors and distributed 559 grants totaling $528 million. Grants from the Fund provided cash assistance, counseling, and other services to the families of those killed in the 9/11 attacks, the injured and those displaced from their homes or jobs. In December 2004, The Fund completed its distribution of funds and closed its doors.

About the Mental Health Association of New York City

MHA-NYC is a non-profit organization that addresses mental health needs in New York City and across the nation. It is a local organization with national impact and has a three-part mission of services, advocacy and education. MHA-NYC identifies unmet needs and develops culturally sensitive services and programs to improve lives while promoting the importance of mental wellness. www.mhaofnyc.org.

CONTACT:

Kathy Walling
United Way of New York City
(212) 251-2476
KWalling@uwnyc.org

New York, NY – Tonight’s 18th Annual Gridiron Gala at the Waldorf=Astoria presented by United Way of New York City along with the New York Giants and the New York Jets brought in more than $2 million to support United Way programs that help New York City at-risk youth. More than 1,000 corporate and community leaders, current Jets players D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Dustin Keller, current Giants players Will Beatty and Kevin Boothe, Giants 7th-round draft pick Da’Rel Scott, as well as NFL legends Ted Banker, Erich Barnes, Emerson Boozer, Greg Buttle, Harry Carson, Chad Cascadden, Rich Caster, Frank Gifford, Bruce Harper, Dave Herman, Bobby Jackson, Sean Landeta, Skip Lane, Ray Lucas, Curtis McGriff, Greg Murphy, Karl Nelson, Joe Namath, John Nitti, Amani Toomer, Bob Tucker, Wesley Walker and Charles Way attended the high-spirited event, now a New York tradition.

All funds raised at the Gridiron Gala will support United Way-led initiatives that improve the lives of the city’s most vulnerable children by:

combating childhood obesity by engaging young children, families and staff at Head Start centers in learning about the importance of healthy eating and exercise; 
promoting early grade literacy – a key foundation for success in middle school and beyond; and
helping at-risk youth make a smooth transition into high school and stay on track to on-time graduation.
“United Way of New York City is dedicated to ensuring quality education for every child in New York City. The event’s proceeds will fund outcome-driven United Way programs that will transform lives and foster long-term, sustainable change,” said United Way of New York City President & Chief Executive Officer Gordon J. Campbell. “We are grateful for all the support from the NFL as well as the corporate and community leaders who joined together tonight to support this cause.”

Every year, the Gridiron Gala honors leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community. The 2011 honorees were:

Hometown Heroes

Chris Canty, defensive lineman, New York Giants
Tony Richardson, fullback, New York Jets

Community Quarterbacks

Deloitte, represented by Barry Salzberg, Chief Executive Officer
Blackstone, represented by Laurence Tosi, Senior Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer
“I am humbled to be acknowledged as an advocate for those in need in my hometown,” said Chris Canty. “It is my hope that this recognition will encourage and inspire others to be more active in serving our community.”

“I am humbled and honored that I was chosen as one of the 2011 Hometown Heroes,” said Tony Richardson.  “United Way has changed the lives of so many young people, and I am blessed to be able to do my part to help that effort.”

United Way and the NFL have been partners for more than three decades. Back in 1973 the two organizations developed the idea of using the NFL’s network contract airtime to promote United Way during telecasts. Since then, this partnership has helped to raise awareness of the value of giving back to the community as well as the good work of both United Way and the league and its players in the community.

The NFL’s support of United Way extends well beyond the commercials seen during game broadcasts, however. There is a shared goal to make an impact in communities served by both institutions, with a current focus on encouraging youth to develop healthy eating and exercise habits.

United Way of New York City relies on active corporate partners.  This year it is recognizing the outstanding commitment of Deloitte and Blackstone.

Blackstone ranks among United Way of New York City’s top 25 corporate partners.  Blackstone, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation and the firm’s employees contribute extensive resources to support United Way’s programs each year—giving more than $1 million in 2010.

“Blackstone has been a long-time supporter of the important work of United Way, and we were pleased to achieve 100% participation from our senior partners and 90% participation from all employees this year,” said Laurence Tosi, accepting on behalf of Blackstone.  “Blackstone has a strong culture of giving back to the community through volunteerism and service, which includes year-round involvement in the work of United Way of New York City.” 

A leader in corporate philanthropy, Deloitte has invested millions in the future of the nation’s youth through its work with United Way. The organization has a longstanding commitment to education and is working to improve educational systems nationwide by supporting sustainable programs that create a strong foundation for learning, keep kids on track to graduation, and open new doors to higher education. In the Greater New York City area alone, Deloitte employees contributed more than $3.8 million in charitable giving through United Way in 2010.

“Deloitte and United Way have been working together for more than 25 years at the national level, and I only expect this dynamic relationship to grow even more, ” said Barry Salzberg.  “With United Way and other partners, Deloitte is committed to making the dream of college come true for more kids in our inner cities, all while strengthening  the talent pipeline and U.S. competitiveness in the process.”

Photos of the event are available as of 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 18 at: http://www.unitedwaynyc.org/pressphotos/gg2011.php

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) creates, leads and supports strategic initiatives that seek to achieve lasting city-wide improvements in the education, income stability, and health of New Yorkers. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

New York, NY – United Way of New York City (UWNYC), the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), The Children’s Aid Society (CAS), and the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) have launched Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start, a pilot project to impact nutrition policies at eight Head Start centers throughout New York City.  Working together, these organizations will build the capacity of Head Start centers to support staff and families in developing new knowledge, behaviors and policies that will result in healthier eating habits and more active lifestyles, wellness promotion and ultimately, policies within Head Start centers that encourage healthy eating and greater physical activity.  Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start is generously supported by the Aetna Foundation.

The pilot project consists of training sessions run by CMOM educators during which Head Start staff and families are provided with activities, tools and resources that reinforce strategies for practicing good nutrition, promoting physical activity and addressing the role sleep plays in a child’s overall health.  In addition, CAS staff trainers instruct Head Start food service staff on basic nutrition, menu planning and how to prepare healthy meals from scratch. 

Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start provides Head Start staff and parents with consistent and important obesity prevention information, reinforced by a curriculum that is adaptable for home.  This integrated approach has the potential to create a stronger safety net for low-income children and families.

“One of United Way’s core tenets is our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, particularly in New York City’s underserved communities where children are especially at risk for obesity and its related illnesses,” said Gordon Campbell, President & CEO of United Way of New York City. “With more than 40% of New York City children in Head Start considered obese or overweight, it is essential that we promote healthier food consumption among these children. Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start is doing this by working to improve nutrition literacy among Head Start staff and families. By partnering with these organizations to address the root causes of child obesity, we can work to promote sustainable, healthy change.”

“Developing healthy habits is an important part of ACS’s efforts to prepare young children for success in school and beyond,” said Melanie Hartzog, Deputy Commissioner for Child Care and Head Start at ACS. “Thanks to this United Way  partnership, families and staff in our Head Start programs have the opportunity to benefit from the unique experience of the educators at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan working with families in need.”

“As a pediatrician and a public health researcher, I have seen the obesity epidemic grow in our most vulnerable populations with serious long-term health ramifications," said Anne C. Beal MD, MPH,  president of the Aetna Foundation.  “By taking a comprehensive approach, involving Head Start staff, the children and their families, the Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start program has the potential to reverse the obesity trend among young people in New York and be a model for Head Start programs across the country.”

“Establishing positive, healthy behaviors early in life provides children with a strong foundation to grow into healthy adults,” said Andrew Ackerman, Executive Director of CMOM.  “We’re replicating our successful health programming outside the museum walls and into the communities where it is most needed.  Our goal is nothing less than a reduction in the prevalence of childhood obesity in low-income communities.”

“Children’s Aid believes that in addition to providing wellness education to children and families, we must model healthy eating by serving nutritious meals to children in our care. Our trainings provide food service staff with the knowledge and cooking skills they need to prepare from-scratch meals based on whole and fresh foods. We aim to eliminate in children’s meals the processed, heat-and-serve foods that are high in fat, sugar and sodium, and to greatly increase children’s consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains,” said Richard Buery, CEO, Children’s Aid Society.

The pilot program culminates with the Healthy Eating for a Healthy Start Family Festival for all participants to be held at CMOM on June 4.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) brings together people, resources and ideas to achieve lasting systemic changes that improve the education, income stability and health of New Yorkers, and foster a more robust and effective nonprofit sector. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.UnitedWayNYC.org.

About the Administration for Children’s Services

The New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) provides a broad range of programs that protect and advance the interests of children, including child welfare services, early childhood education services and juvenile detention services. ACS administers one of the largest publicly funded child care systems in the country, serving approximately 120,000 children. This includes the Head Start program, a federally funded, family-centered child development program for low-income pre-schoolers that promotes intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth in order to develop each child’s potential for success.

About the Children’s Aid Society

The Children’s Aid Society is an independent, not-for-profit organization established to serve the children of New York City.  Our mission is to help children in poverty to succeed and thrive. We do this by providing comprehensive supports to children and their families in targeted high-needs New York City neighborhoods. Founded in 1853, it is one of the nation’s largest and most innovative non-sectarian agencies, serving New York’s neediest children. Services are provided in community schools, neighborhood centers, health clinics and camps. For additional information, please visit www.childrensaidsociety.org.

About Children’s Museum of Manhattan

Founded in 1973, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is New York City’s leading cultural institution dedicated solely to children and families.  CMOM inspires children and their families to learn about themselves and a culturally diverse world through unique interactive exhibitions.  CMOM presents a full range of activities, exhibits and special performances that stimulate children of all ages.  Through multidimensional programs that reach deep into the community, the Museum serves New Yorkers from all backgrounds.  For details on all of CMOM’s programs, please visit www.cmom.org.

About the Aetna Foundation

The Aetna Foundation, Inc. is the independent charitable and philanthropic arm of Aetna Inc.  Since 1980, Aetna and the Aetna Foundation have contributed $394 million in grants and sponsorships, including $15.6 million in 2010.  As a national health foundation, we promote wellness, health, and access to high-quality health care for everyone.  This work is enhanced by the time and commitment of Aetna employees, who have volunteered more than 2.3 million hours since 2003.  Our current giving is focused on addressing the rising rate of adult and childhood obesity in the U.S.; promoting racial and ethnic equity in health and health care; and advancing integrated health care. For more information, visit www.AetnaFoundation.org.

Volunteers, staff and clients of the food pantries, along with Goya and United Way representatives, gathered together at the West Side Campaign Against Hunger to celebrate with a cook-off by three Customer Chefs, who prepared and provided tips on healthy and affordable Goya-inspired dishes. Carey Yorio, a 4th generation member of the Goya family, judged the cook-off and invited the audience to assist her in determining the winning dish.  

“Nearly one in five Americans lacked the money to buy the food they needed last year,” said Gordon Campbell, President and CEO of United Way of New York City. “Due to the scarcity of healthy options in low-income neighborhoods, obesity, diabetes and other diet-related diseases are on the rise. In the South Bronx, almost one in three people are regularly unable to afford a meal. These are some of the most severe hunger problems in the entire country. We want to increase access to not just affordable food, but healthy, nutritious food, for all New Yorkers.”

“Due to the recession, the problem of hunger in New York City has grown significantly,” said Doreen Wohl, Executive Director of the West Side Campaign Against Hunger. “Last year, about 1.4 million New York City residents struggled to afford enough food. It is critical that we provide nutritious options to people who really need it. This donation is a tremendous gesture and feeds a lot of people.”

“Goya has an extensive history of donating food on a local and national level,” said Carey Yorio, 4th generation Goya family member and Research & Development Associate at the family-run Goya Foods. “We have provided aid to disaster recovery efforts around the world, including Haiti and Chile. Last year, Goya donated more than 1.5 million pounds of food in the United States. This contribution is a generous and remarkable move in a healthier direction.”

The donation is a part of Goya’s larger contribution of one million pounds of food across the United States and Puerto Rico. The donation of rice, dry beans and other Goya favorites will feed three million people, and is the largest ever single day contribution by a food company. In addition, as part of their commitment to aiding victims of natural disasters, Goya announced today that the company will donate 100,000 cans of Goya coconut water to help deliver nutrients quickly to the victims in Japan.

Goya Foods, in partnership with United Way, also launched the Goya Gives campaign, which encourages consumers to participate in the fight against hunger and promote better nutrition though various Goya Gives social media platforms. For 75 days, from March 16 to May 29, the public can contribute recipes, photos and stories of low-cost, nutritious meals with friends or neighbors in need. Participants can also share their Goya Gives status with their friends on Facebook and Twitter.  In addition, the public can make monetary donations to United Way to help fund the organization’s mission to prevent hunger and promote better nutrition in communities across America.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) creates, leads and supports strategic initiatives that seek to achieve lasting city-wide improvements in the education, income stability, and health of New Yorkers. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

About Goya Foods

Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America’s largest Hispanic-owned food company, and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures packages and distributes over 1,600 high-quality food products from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. Goya products have their roots in the culinary traditions of Hispanic communities around the world; their combination of authentic ingredients, robust seasonings and convenient preparation make them ideal for every taste and every table. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com.

Washington, DC – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced a series of new initiatives aimed at helping communities increase food access by promoting coordination and partnerships between public, private and nonprofit partners. The U.S. Department of Agriculture will be investing $4.98 million in grants to 14 communities in eight states, including New York City, to reduce hunger and improve the nutrition of low-income Americans.

A collaboration of New York City’s leading nonprofit and governmental public anti-hunger, nutrition, and aging organizations were granted $2 million.  The partnership includes the AARP Foundation, City Harvest, the Council of Senior Centers and Services of New York City, Food Bank For New York City, the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, the New York City Coalition Against Hunger, the City Department for the Aging, and Public Health Solutions through the United Way of New York City. 

The grant will be used to implement a set of strategies spanning the next two years—based on a comprehensive plan adopted in 2006 by 75 citywide, faith-based, and neighborhood groups.  The goal is to significantly reduce hunger and improve nutrition throughout the city, including the formation of a New York City Food Policy Council to connect the nonprofit, public, and private sectors.  This project will work toward the creation of a hunger-free community in all five boroughs, with a particular focus on aiding the especially vulnerable population of households with children, working poor, and senior citizens.

The 13 grantees outside New York are located in New Jersey, California, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington and Maryland. The grants fund the development and implementation of plans to help communities expand access to healthy food through increased participation in federal nutrition programs and other creative initiatives that meet a community’s unique needs.

In 2009, more than 50 million individuals in the United States, 16.6% of the total population, lived in food insecure households. Children and seniors are especially vulnerable throughout New York City, approximately one out of every five residents (1.5 million people) lives below the federal poverty level (approximately $18,300 annually for a family of three).

“Too many New Yorkers simply can't build a better life when they are struggling to feed themselves and their families, which is why United Way puts such an emphasis on reducing hunger in our City,” said Gordon Campbell, President & CEO of United Way of New York City. “This grant will help New York continue to be at the forefront of creating and implementing programs and services that work to reduce the number of food insecure households. “We are pleased to be working with so many respected and committed partners to continue this work.”

"Families in crisis and the elderly are increasingly dealing with hunger as fact of life.  This partnership represents part of the solution for many who need our help,” said William E. Rapfogel, CEO of Met Council.  “We are grateful to this great team and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for helping our innovative approach."

“City Harvest is grateful to be a part of this exciting opportunity to address hunger in New York City by building public and private partnerships,” said Jilly Stephens, Executive Director of City Harvest.  “We look forward to the role we can play in helping meet the considerable food needs of our communities."

AARP and AARP Foundation have made a long-term commitment to reducing hunger in America and this collaboration will allow us to augment our work in New York City," said Lois Wagh Aronstein, AARP New York State Director.  “AARP believes that no one of any age should go hungry, and we thank Secretary Vilsack for making this significant investment in the health of our nation's most vulnerable citizens.”

“The importance of this historic USDA grant cannot be underestimated,” said Lucy Cabrera, Ph.D., President & CEO of the Food Bank For New York City. “Hardship has intensified for families who are struggling to put food on the table, and approximately one-third of New York City residents are sacrificing the quality and quantity of food they are buying in order to make ends meet. This grant will help us meet those needs.”

“As New York faces the challenges of assisting its older citizens to remain healthy while living in the community, we are pleased that recognition is being given to the importance of nutrition in addressing chronic illnesses of aging,” said Igal Jellinek, Executive Director of Council of Senior Centers and Services of NYC, Inc. “We are proud to be a partner in the Hunger Free Communities Consortium's multigenerational initiative and look forward to providing outreach and access to a diverse population of low-income, vulnerable older New Yorkers to help end hunger in New York City.”

“This collaborative approach is paramount to successfully tackling the alleviation of hunger in many of New York City's neighborhoods,” said Ellen Rautenberg, President and CEO of Public Health Solutions.  “There is a great need for action, and we are looking forward to working with our partners to increase community awareness of WIC, SNAP and other existing nutrition assistance programs that can help create a hunger-free and healthy NYC .”

“This historic public-private partnership will allow nonprofit groups to build our capacities to help more struggling families receive government nutrition assistance benefits and school breakfasts,” said Joel Berg, Executive Director of the New York City Coalition Against Hunger. “It will both fight hunger and bolster our economy.”

USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) oversees the administration of 15 nutrition assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the child nutrition programs, that touch the lives of one in four Americans over the course of a year.  These programs work in concert to form a national safety net against hunger.  Visit www.fns.usda.gov for information about FNS and nutrition assistance programs.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) brings together people, resources and ideas to achieve long-lasting systemic changes that improve the education, income stability and health of low-income New Yorkers, and foster a more robust and effective nonprofit sector. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.

New York, NY – Women United in Philanthropy today hosted the fifth annual Power of Women to Make a Difference awards luncheon honoring women who have made a significant impact on their communities through philanthropic giving, advocacy, and volunteerism.  Susan L. Taylor, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus of ESSENCE Magazine and Founder & CEO of the National CARES Mentoring Movement, delivered the keynote address.  Proceeds from the charity event benefit the Women United Fund, which supports United Way of New York City’s youth empowerment initiatives.

Women United in Philanthropy is an all-volunteer group that taps into the power, talent and passion of women to transform their communities.  Members are accomplished women leaders who have taken an active role in advancing the work of United Way of New York City (UWNYC).  

Since 2006, Women United has raised $3 million in support of UWNYC’s initiatives aimed at reducing early childhood obesity, improving early grade literacy and helping at-risk youth succeed in high school.

“The women honored here today understand the importance of philanthropic giving and volunteering in improving the lives of vulnerable New Yorkers,” said Gordon Campbell, UWNYC President & CEO. “We are truly proud to partner with them and to recognize the powerful impact they have on their communities.”

Bob Catell, Chairman, Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center at SUNY Stony Brook and Chairman, New York State Smart Grid Consortium, announced a personal pledge to match contributions up to $150,000 to the Women United Fund, saying, “Education is the most valuable commodity we can invest in and the only one in this economy that is guaranteed to pay dividends. I challenge those of us who have the means to join me in helping all New York City students succeed, and I challenge our youth to maximize their own potential through education. I will be matching the donations raised by the Women United Fund in support of United Way’s youth empowerment programs.”

“It is no small feat to have succeeded in the professional world as a woman today. It is quite another to have accomplished so much and still find time to empower the community and encourage others to follow in your footsteps,” said Luncheon Co-Chair Anna Patruno. “We are honored to celebrate the women joining us today who have gone above and beyond their peers in lifting up their communities.”

The Women United honorees were Joy A. Collins, General Manager, Essence Communications; Francine Delgado, Senior Vice President, New York City Programs & Technical Assistance, Seedco;  Christine Driessen, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, ESPN; Cindy Price Gavin, Partner, PwC; Dr. Karen L. Gould, President, Brooklyn College; Melissa Hall, Senior Vice President, Assurant, Inc.; Renee McClure, Lead Representative, Economic Development & Community Relations, National Grid; Mihal Nahari, Managing Director and Chief Compliance Officer, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation; Racquel Oden, Managing Director, Merrill Lynch Bank of America; Shawn R. Outler, GVP of Multicultural Merchandise and Vendor Development, Macy’s, Inc.; Ellen Pinschmidt, Senior Vice President, Strategy, Thomson Reuters; Susan Raymond, Ph.D. Executive Vice President, Changing Our World, Inc.; Dia Simms, EVP, General Manager, Blue Flame Agency; Maryann Watt, Managing Director, BNY Mellon; and Agnes Zakrzewska, Director of Corporate Communications & Employee Giving, Macy’s, Inc.

Women United also honored five “Rising Stars”: Fredericka Conner, Merrill Lynch Bank of America; Stephanie Neches, PwC; Amanda Santos, BNY Mellon; Beatrice Serra, Macy’s, Inc.; and Simone Weems, National Grid.

Presenting sponsors of the event, held at Cipriani Wall Street, were Assurant, Inc., Macy’s Inc. and Thompson Reuters.

For photographs of the event please contact Jennifer Burner at jburner@globalstrategygroup.com or call 212-260-8813.

About United Way of New York City

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) brings together people, resources and ideas to achieve long-lasting systemic changes that improve the education, income stability and health of low-income New Yorkers, and foster a more robust and effective nonprofit sector. We believe that everyone has a role in building a better future for all. We offer diverse opportunities for New Yorkers to give, advocate and volunteer to advance the common good. To learn more about our work and how to get involved, visit www.unitedwaynyc.org.