Success by 6 is an early childhood learning initiative that is galvanizing more than 350 communities across the country to influence the physical, mental and emotional needs of children during the most critical stage of brain development.

On the national level, United Way’s SB6 received the Parents as Teachers 2005 Child and Family Advocacy award at the 14th annual Born to Learn™ Conference in March.

“This is the most prestigious award our organization presents,” says Susan S. Stepleton, president and CEO of Parents as Teachers National Center. “It recognizes not just accomplishments, but an ongoing, often lifetime commitment, to advocating on behalf of all children and all families. United Way certainly exemplifies this ongoing commitment in communities all across the country. Success by 6 programs are accomplishing phenomenal things!”

Orange County United Way received The Commitment to Children Award for the work that the local SB6 initiative is accomplishing during the California Association for the Education of Young Children’s annual public policy symposium in Sacramento.  They were also recognized by the County of Orange Board of Supervisors and received a proclamation during the Week of the Young Child for their commitment to quality improvement for childcare.

Orange County United Way’s SB6 provides funding to strengthen early childhood education during the crucial window when children learn the most: from birth to age six.   Considering that there is a severe shortage of licensed childcare for infants and toddlers in Orange County, SB6 addresses a critical need by providing grants for low-income families to access childcare and assisting 10 centers in becoming nationally accredited.  

“The true measure of success for United Way is in the lives that are changed,” said Maria Chavez Wilcox, president and CEO of Orange County United Way.  “Success by 6 is one of our key initiatives that is reaching out and shaping our local community.”

To learn more about how Orange County United Way’s Success By 6 has made a difference in childcare in Orange County, please contact Laurie Mann at 949-263-6155.

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ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY

United Way is a recognized leader at identifying and funding health and human care services in Orange County.  The organization is committed to donor accountability, operational efficiency and measurable results.  United Way invests in the following priority areas in Orange County: ensuring that children, youth and adults have the necessary literacy and learning skills to succeed, promoting self-sufficiency for adults and families and providing critical resources for families, the elderly and the abused.  Orange County United Way is a local, private, 501 (c) (3).