By: Juli Metzger—
Muncie, IN—Join the Indiana Youth Institute, United Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties, and Ball State University on Friday, Feb. 28 for “State of the Child Conference.” This year, the presentation of the 2020 Indiana KIDS COUNT Data Book will be followed by facilitated discussions on what the numbers mean and how communities can address the issues.
The KIDS COUNT Data Book is a revealing look at statistics and demographics affecting all Indiana counties. This event will focus on Delaware, Henry and Randolph counties, communities supported by an expanded United Way of Delaware County.
The conference will cover best practice research on successful approaches to key issues including smoking and vaping, substance abuse, and bullying. Hear the top challenges for kids in Indiana and what can be done to ensure all Hoosier kids thrive.
“State of the Child” is a series of town hall discussions, led by the staff of the Indiana Youth Institute and hosted by thought leaders in communities across the state. The Muncie session will be 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Ball State University Alumni Center, 2800 W. Bethel Ave., Muncie. United Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties and Ball State University are sponsors of the event.
Youth workers, youth advocates, as well as key community stakeholders, are invited. The event is free and open to the public. Register here. Seating is limited to 150.
The Indiana Youth Institute is a leading advocate and voice for the state’s youth worker field. They provide innovative trainings, critical data, and capacity-building resources, aiming every effort at increasing the well-being of all children. This is the third year IYI has come to Muncie to present its report.
United Way has a laser focus on ending generational poverty. Today, nearly half the households across its three-county footprint live in poverty or are one crisis away from it. It’s often a vicious generational cycle. These working families face obstacles in reaching health, education and financial stability.
To conquer generational poverty in Delaware County, United Way has as its primary goal that by 2024 all third graders will be reading at grade level – the single greatest indicator of a child’s success in school and life.
“By providing children with early education opportunities, we are addressing fundamental needs to put them on a path toward success in school and life,” said Jenni Marsh, president and chief executive officer of United Way. “Thoughtful discussions of what the statistics say about our community are part of the continued education of all of us, and we’re grateful to IYI for bringing their expertise to our region.”
Registration is at 8:30 a.m. The program will start at 9 a.m. A continental breakfast and buffet lunch will be provided to participants. The program will be livestreamed on the United Wayand Indiana Youth InstituteFacebook pages.
About United Way of Delaware and Henry Counties
United Way of Delaware and Henry Counties focusing resources on education, health, and financial stability. The nonprofit fights to create lasting change in community conditions. With its bold goal to reach grade-level reading by 2024, United Way works to help children read at or above grade level by the end of their third-grade year. Learn more at invitedtoliveunited.org.
