At United Way of Reno County, we believe every child and young adult deserves the chance to thrive—academically, emotionally, and socially. We focus on breaking down barriers and creating pathways to opportunity for youth from early childhood through young adulthood.
INVESTING IN OUR YOUNG PEOPLE, STRENGTHENING OUR FUTURE.
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What We're Up Against
Reno County is full of young people with potential—but too many face barriers that limit their ability to thrive.
1 in 4 children in Reno County lives in poverty, and many more fall into the ALICE category—growing up in households that earn above the poverty line but still can’t afford basic needs.
Early learning access remains inconsistent, especially for families in rural areas or facing financial hardship.
Students are struggling with chronic absenteeism, behavioral health challenges, and academic delays, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
Teen mental health is a growing concern, with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
Opportunities after graduation—whether college, career, or training—are unevenly accessible, especially for low-income or first-generation students.
Many youth lack access to safe, enriching spaces outside of school, especially during afterschool hours and over the summer—times when support, supervision, and positive engagement are critical.
These challenges don’t exist in isolation. They’re shaped by complex systems—education, housing, healthcare, transportation—that must work better for all families. That’s why United Way of Reno County is focused on removing barriers and building supports from cradle to career. Together with our partners, we’re helping youth not just survive, but succeed.
How We Support Youth Opportunity
Funding Programs That Make a Difference
We invest in trusted nonprofit partners delivering high-impact programs that support youth development, education, and stability. Each partner brings essential expertise and care to youth across Reno County—and we’re proud to support their efforts.
Programs we currently fund include:
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One-to-One Youth Mentoring Program
Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters matches children and teens ages 5 to 17 with caring adult mentors—“Bigs”—who offer encouragement, guidance, and positive role modeling. Matches can be community-based, with outings and shared activities, or school-based, where Bigs meet weekly with Littles during the school day. Each match is thoughtfully made through a “Best-Fit Match” process, ensuring strong, lasting connections. Match Support Specialists regularly check in to keep relationships safe and meaningful. This year, KSBBBS will serve 67 local youth, aiming to boost academic performance, social-emotional skills, and reduce risky behaviors. When kids feel supported and seen, they’re more likely to succeed—and that’s exactly what this program delivers.
After School and Summer Program
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hutchinson serves over 750 youth each year through afterschool and summer programs that provide safe, enriching spaces for kids to learn and grow. Focused on academic success, character development, healthy lifestyles, and workforce readiness, the Club equips kids with the tools they need to thrive—socially, emotionally, and academically.
No child is turned away due to cost, helping families stay financially secure while youth gain access to literacy programs, life skills education, and college and career prep. The Club also partners with local organizations like Horizons, Rise Up Reno, and the YMCA to strengthen its impact.
As they say, “Once a Club kid, always a Club kid.” United Way of Reno County is proud to support this transformative program for the next generation of leaders.
Community Awareness Program
BrightHouse is working to end domestic and sexual violence by stopping it before it starts. Through their Community Awareness Program, they reach youth and adults across Reno County with prevention education and resources that build safer, healthier relationships.
Last year, over 600 students participated in Safe Dates, a nationally recognized curriculum that teaches how to recognize abuse, set boundaries, and seek help. Another 300 community members attended awareness events and presentations focused on identifying warning signs and supporting survivors.
With most abuse starting before age 25, early intervention is critical. BrightHouse partners with schools and community groups to equip people of all ages with tools for safety, respect, and healthy connection.
United Way of Reno County is proud to invest in this vital program, which strengthens youth opportunity by making education and safety a shared priority.
Driving Community Conversations
We lead and support collaborative conversations on:
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Early childhood care and education
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Youth mental health and emotional wellness
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Juvenile justice reform and equity
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Postsecondary access and career pathways
By showing up in these spaces, we help move our community upstream—building systems that work better for all young people.
Investing in Youth with United Way’s Direct Programs
United Way of Reno County also leads targeted youth initiatives, including:
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Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – Free books for children birth to age 5
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Reno Connections – Helping families with young children navigate barriers and build stability