What We Do

The mission of United Way of Aroostook is to mobilize resources to improve the lives of people in our communities. We are igniting a social movement by empowering people to unite and solve complex problems that affect us all.

United Way of Aroostook strives to break the cycle of poverty and create stronger communities. We focus on education, financial stability, and health because they are essential for living well. By addressing root causes of issues, we create innovative solutions to make real change.

house of well-being graphic describing the path to breaking the cycle of poverty, foundation, three pillars of a good life, and roof

Our goal is to build the House of Well-Being big enough and sturdy enough for all of us to live in. That means creating a structure that lasts and protects residents long term.

Pave the Way to Making a Greater Impact

We pave the way to greater impact through our use of data and strong partnerships and collaborations.

Foundation

The foundation of the house involves connecting and coordinating services to build resiliency. Resiliency helps us recover from situations like illness or loss of a job. The two parts of the foundation are as follows:

  • 2-1-1 is an information and referral service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By calling or visiting the website, individuals get help finding the resources they need.
  • Volunteer opportunities align with key elements of this house of well-being and support our community’s goals.

Education

There are three elements to ensure kids get the education and preparation they need to be successful in life. These include;

  • Preparing children so they are ready to enter kindergarten.
  • Helping kids read at grade level early in life.
  • Improving the hope and well-being that contribute to children’s learning.

Financial Stability

Families need to pay bills and build skills for good paying jobs. In order to do that, these needs must be met;

  • Meet basic needs such as housing, transportation, food, safety, and childcare.
  • Maintain balance and consistency to build new skills like money management.
  • Receive education and training to find jobs.
  • Live a financially stable life.

Health

The key ingredients for helping people be well are as follows;

  • Living well as part of our community, regardless of age or ability.
  • Provide additional resources for those with mental health issues.
  • Promote youth safety and mental health awareness.

Roof

The roof structure brings all this together. This structure includes;

  • Provide education, financial stability, and health for people, especially children from birth to age five.
  • Develop multi-generational strategies to break the cycle of poverty and trauma.
  • Create healthier environments by investing in neighborhoods.
  • Build networks to provide opportunities to thrive and be successful.