Generation Next

Generation Next is a college readiness, access, and completion program created to correct disparities in education. The program works with students to achieve college admission, integrate into college life, and complete a post-secondary program. Students receive programming within their high school classrooms that develops essential skills for navigating high school and college, builds their understanding of their self and interactions with others, and prepares them for college or post-secondary education.

The Generation Next program was created by Community Action Lehigh Valley and is being offered at Pocono Mountain West High School. The program supports students throughout their time in high school and continues this support during their chosen post-secondary education through mentorship and peer-to-peer support. Students are eligible for the Generation Next program if they meet a minimum of two of the following criteria:

1. Eligible for free/reduced lunch
2. Is a first-generation college student
3. Identify as a person of color

Students enrolled in the Generation Next program will receive enriching lessons focused on social emotional learning, development of soft and hard skills, financial literacy, SAT preparation, as well as fun and educational college trips.

Back-to-School Backpacks and School Supplies

Monroe County students deserve to start the year ready to learn! Pocono Mountains United Way partners with local agencies to distribute backpacks brimming with school supplies. Your support ensures every child has the tools they need to thrive in the classroom. Donate today and empower Monroe County's future leaders!

Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC)

Tax credit program providing scholarships for children, whose families are income-eligible, to attend high-quality Pre-K through grade 12 schools. The program also supports summer learning for 284 children in grades K-5.

• $103,000 in contributions from the business community
• 30 scholarships awarded for Pre-K-12 and 48 K-6 Summer learning scholarships were awarded

Getting Ready for Kindergarten Calendar

One of the most exciting days for you and your child is the first day of kindergarten. Pocono Mountains United Way's Getting Ready for Kindergarten Calendar features a year's worth of games, activities, and tips to help you and your child get ready for that special day.

Thanks to the generous support of our community and sponsors, 4,000 printed copies of the calendar are available at no cost to households with 3, 4, and 5-year olds in Monroe County, to promote school readiness.

Healthy Start Early Childhood Screening

Supports children’s readiness for Kindergarten and promotes positive outcomes through referral to services where needed.

• 3,253 developmental, vision, hearing, dental and speech screenings provided in Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• 543 children received referrals for additional services – over a 75% increase in referral rate over pre- pandemic baseline

SMILE In-Home Mentoring Program

Supports children and their families - in their home environment - to reach their full potential and enter school ready to succeed.

• 18 children and their families received 480 hours of mentoring in Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• Participating children showed a 30.1% increase on their developmental evaluation and 4.45% increase in evaluation of home environment

United We Read

As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, embark on a literary journey with United We Read, a collaborative effort by Pocono Mountains United Way and its partners, aligning with Read Across America in March. Join us in creating a love for reading and championing inclusivity through the magic of storytelling. Dive into a 20-minute per day reading challenge or join us in April for exciting volunteer opportunities including book drop-offs, engaging reading/Storytime sessions, and more!