Are You Helping Children Through United Way

To be "united" means to join together for a common purpose, an idea certainly not absent from San Diego and uniquely embodied in our United Way. United Way is a nationwide non–profit organization consisting of members who work together to better their local community. United Way of San Diego’s personal mission is to "spark breakthrough community action that elevates every child and family towards a brighter future." Their mission is achieved by coming together to help solve some of the greatest challenges in today’s society, which in turn makes the future of San Diego a little brighter for us all. 

Kevin Crawford, President and CEO of United Way San Diego, began leading the organization in early 2014. Crawford is passionate about preparing the next generation by making sure they have the proper foundation for success. One of his most intense points of focus is preparing students to become the future leaders of our society. 

Crawford believes that children need the bare essentials, such as food and clothing, to succeed in school. "We make sure that we are standing in the gap for that child in those areas that are the biggest distractions for them in school," says Crawford. United Way comes together to determine the factors that can negatively influence a child’s ability to be successful before they enter the classroom. "United Way looks at all of those things with the experts and that’s where the catalyst roll we play is important."

Under Crawford’s guidance, United Way of San Diego and the San Diego Unified School District partnered up to establish the "Early Warning Continuum" project.  The project creates monthly reports which track students whose attendance, behavior and academic performance are dropping below satisfactory. The schools collaborate with social work interns who prioritize the at–risk students. They then work closely with the student and their families to determine the problems that are interfering with the child’s success. "If we can get to kids early and give them the tools to be successful, the chance of them being successful in life goes way up," says Crawford. The project helps connect families to needed resources that enrich their lives.  

Crawford has played an active and positive role in society his entire life. Before joining United Way of San Diego, Crawford was the Interim City Manager for the City of Carlsbad, as well as the Fire Chief of Carlsbad for 12 years. He has battled some of America’s most catastrophic events, including some of the largest Southern California wildfires and Hurricane Katrina, and even provided aid during the wake of 9/11. His passion for helping others has positively impacted many, including those who benefit from United Way of San Diego. "I love being in positions to help people see their potential," says Crawford. Together with United Way, Crawford continues to focus on the future and plans to maintain the vision of the organization by creating "a vibrant community built on opportunity for everyone."