United Way Suncoast, along with Better Tomorrows, the social services organization onsite, and the USF Sarasota-Manatee School of Education, is proud to support the Earl & Mary Watts After-school Program at Janie’s Garden in North Sarasota. The program, which opened September 30th, offers multi-faceted academic support during the school year for 6-12 year-olds living in the apartment complex. Programming centers on homework support, study skills, reading achievement, social and emotional skills and character building. United Way Suncoast and Better Tomorrows are also supporting families by offering financial coaching and volunteer income tax preparation.

By providing opportunities for the entire family right where they live, we remove barriers so children and their families can focus on learning. Why? Because along with access to learning opportunities, family financial stability is a key contributing factor to a child’s success. 

Children who are reading at grade level by the end of third grade are FOUR TIMES more likely to graduate high school. And high school graduates have greater career opportunities and the potential to earn 75% more over a lifetime than those who do not graduate.

With your support, United Way Suncoast continues to fight for the education and financial stability of every person in our community. With your help, our garden will continue to grow! To learn how you can get involved, contact United Way Suncoast at 941.366.2686. Join the fight. Give. Advocate. Volunteer.

United Way Suncoast Website