United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley is seeking volunteers to assist with free tax preparation at eight sites in eastern Massachusetts. In 2011, more than 200 volunteers assisted 3,555 families with free tax preparation. As part of a larger effort to ensure more families claim the tax credits they have earned - credits they are often unaware even exist - in 2012 eight free tax preparation sites will serve residents of ten cities including Lawrence, Quincy, Lynn, Boston, Waltham, Chelsea, Revere, Randolph, Weymouth and Chelmsford.  read more »

United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley is applauding the White House's announcement of Summer Jobs+.  read more »

Less than a week after Massachusetts was awarded up to $50 million in Race to the Top funding for early childhood education, Thrive in 5 has selected Jane E. Tewksbury as its new Executive Director. As of February 1, 2012, Tewksbury will assume her post as head of Boston's citywide movement to ensure that all children entering kindergarten have the resources and support they need for success in school and beyond. Tewksbury has served as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services since 2005.  read more »

The holiday season is in full swing and many of us have begun receiving donation requests from nonprofits for much needed funding, volunteering or in-kind contributions. These requests for support come in our mail, over the phone, through email, from friends and family on social media and sometimes from volunteers on the street. There are many reputable organizations that need your help however it can be difficult to decide which nonprofits you should support. Here are United Way's 5 Tips to Make Your Donation Effective:

1. Clear Goals  read more »

READ THE RESULTS OF THE LYNN YOUTH SURVEY
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