The beginning of a new school year is filled with excitement, but it can also bring some anxiety. Children wonder who their teacher will be, whether they will have friends in their class and whether they are ready for the work ahead. Parents are asking many of the same questions while also trying to manage schedules, transportation, school supplies and all the other responsibilities that come with raising a family.

At United Way of Utah County, we are fortunate to see the remarkable work taking place throughout our community to help children and families prepare for these moments.

Throughout the summer, our community centers have been filled with children participating in summer learning programs. These programs give children opportunities to read, explore, create and continue developing important skills while school is out. They also provide safe and welcoming places where children can build relationships with caring adults and with one another.

Summer learning is about much more than completing worksheets or reviewing school subjects. It is about helping children stay curious. It is about giving them confidence. It is about reminding them that learning can be enjoyable and that there are people in their community who believe in them.

Courtesy United Way of Utah County

Our community centers are only one part of the work being done. Across United Way programs, volunteers, educators, nonprofit partners and community members are helping children prepare for success in school. Some are helping families find books and educational resources. Others are supporting parents, providing mentoring, organizing after-school activities or helping families connect with services they need.

Much of this work happens quietly. It happens when a volunteer sits beside a child and listens patiently as that child reads. It happens when a parent receives encouragement and realizes they are not alone. It happens when a child walks into a community center and is greeted by someone who knows their name and is happy to see them.

These moments may seem small, but together they can make an enormous difference.

As the school year begins, I hope our community will continue to support programs that create these opportunities. Financial contributions allow organizations like United Way and our partners to provide books, learning activities, trained staff and welcoming spaces for children and families. Volunteers bring time, experience and, perhaps most importantly, personal connection.

But supporting children does not happen only through formal programs.

Courtesy United Way of Utah County

Each of us can help children and parents in our own neighborhoods. We can ask a child how school is going and take the time to listen to the answer. We can encourage a young person who is struggling. We can read with a child, share a skill, offer a ride or help a busy parent feel supported rather than judged.

We can also remember that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. Most parents are working hard and doing the very best they can. A little encouragement, friendship or practical help can strengthen an entire family.

Helping children thrive is not a responsibility that belongs only to schools, parents or nonprofit organizations. It belongs to all of us.

The start of school gives us an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the children around us. We can support programs that help them learn, but we can also become the kind of neighbors who notice, encourage and care.

When children know that their families, schools and communities are standing behind them, they begin the school year with more than notebooks and pencils. They begin with confidence, hope and the knowledge that they do not have to succeed alone.

To learn more about how you can get involved, visit unitedwayuc.org.

Bill Hulterstrom is president and CEO of United Way of Utah County.