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Youth Opportunity
Community Schools
We are harnessing the power of community to reimagine schools as places where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Community Schools are a nationally recognized framework developed by the Coalition for Community Schools. This collaborative approach centers the whole child and brings educators, families, and community leaders together to co-create solutions that help students thrive. From health to housing, the framework aligns support with each child's needs.
United Way partners with the Coalition for Community Schools and local leaders to accelerate this strategy in communities across our network. We mobilize partners, align resources, and strengthen collaboration so schools can deliver integrated supports effectively and sustainably. Through our United Way network, we help scale what works nationwide.
The approach begins with listening. Every program and policy answers the question: What do children and their families need? By coordinating services and expanding learning opportunities in safe, welcoming spaces, United Way helps schools become the center of stronger, more resilient communities.
This graphic is an adaptation of the original transformation model developed by the Coalition for Community Schools. To view the full framework, click here.
Impact Story
What is a Community School?
Find out how United Way of Central Maryland is impacting students and families in the region through this innovative model.
Impact Story
Planting Hope to Feed a Community
Ensuring families have access to fresh, healthy food is just one way United Way of Greater Knoxville is meeting real needs through the Community Schools model.
Inside Our Community Schools
We are showing what is possible when we align resources with real community priorities. From disaster response in North Carolina to neighborhood-driven leadership in Knoxville, United Way is investing in kids and their families.
Gamechanging Leadership
Bradley McMahan’s leadership as a middle school principal in Buncombe County, NC, has had a true impact. His inclusive, community-driven approach has made Owen Middle a powerful example of what a Community School can and should be.