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Author: Meg Costa

Combating Childhood Hunger: United Way’s Summer Meals Event Reached 850 Dallas Neighbors

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

More than 850 Dallas neighbors gathered at Albert C. Black Jr. STEAM Academy on June 10—and went home with free meals, free groceries and a safety net for the long summer ahead. 

Our Summer Meals Kickoff is an annual tradition that celebrates the start of summer with family-friendly games and crafts, snow cones and smiles—while also taking a stand against food insecurity in North Texas. 

Serving Dallas Families: Free Meals, Free Groceries and Summer Fun 

The Summer Meals Kickoff is an important component of our mission to improve access to education, income and health—the building blocks of opportunity. Hunger limits a child’s ability to learn, a worker’s ability to advance and a family’s ability to stay healthy. Food security initiatives are foundational to our work and directly support our Aspire United 2030 goals. 

This year’s event provided lots of fun and support for our neighbors, including: 

  • 750+ hot meals served to kids and adults, prepared and served in partnership with Dallas Independent School District 
  • 400 take-home grocery packs, each containing about 8 pounds of mixed produce, two gallons of milk, a watermelon and a snack box 
  • 20+ United Way community partners were on-site with information on free summer meals and year-round food assistance 
  • 100+ volunteers came out to directly benefit our North Texas neighbors 
  • 2,000+ giveaways, including visors, sunglasses, fans, snack packs and STEM kits 
  • Raffles for prizes including an iPad, AirPods, bikes and movie gift cards 
  • A visit from Dallas Trinity FC’s mascot, Boots, and a performance by the Mavs ManiAACs 
  • Snow cones, games, temporary tattoos, music and inflatables for kids of all ages 

Thank You to Our Partners 

Events like the Summer Meals Kickoff demonstrate the power of our collaborative approach to community impact, as we work together to ensure that children have access to the nutritious food and support they need all summer long.  

We’re deeply grateful to the sponsors who made this event possible: 

  • Aspire United Volunteer Series Sponsor: Texas Instruments 
  • Event Sponsors: PepsiCo, Vistra, Rocket Mortgage and DN Tanks 

Food Security Is a Challenge in North Texas 

During the summer, when federally funded school meal programs are paused, many local children become susceptible to food insecurity. Each year, our Summer Meals Kickoff unites hundreds of volunteers and corporate and community partners around a single belief: No child should have to go hungry in North Texas.  

Hunger is a significant challenge in Dallas County, where one in four children face food insecurity, meaning they don’t know where their next meal will come from. This summer, the situation is especially stressful for many local families, as their budgets are being stretched by rising food and gas prices. 

Hunger and food insecurity can be devastating to a child. Kids who don’t eat regularly may experience developmental delays and are more likely to fall behind in school, miss more class days and carry health consequences into adulthood. 

Food access is at the core of our mission to improve access to education, income and health. This summer—and throughout the year—it’s important for United Way, our supporters and partners, and the community as a whole to step in and fill the gap. 

As Ashley Douglas, vice president of the Southern Dallas Thrives initiative at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, shared: 

“Being able to bring awareness about the accessibility of meals during the summer, especially during those key out-of-school times, is so important. To be able to serve families and have some sort of economic impact on their household, especially as we see increases in the cost of food, the cost of fuel—it’s really important. I hope that kids are able to have a fun and active and exciting summer, without having to worry about where their next meal will come from.”  

For volunteers like Stephanie, the Summer Meals Kickoff is a chance to see the direct impact of donating their time.  

“I volunteer with United Way because of all that they do in the community,” she said. “They’re so deeply involved and they have so many different programs, and I love to be involved in this community that they serve.”  

A big thank you to each volunteer and partner who helped connect local families with nutrition education, local resources and enrichment opportunities, strengthening the safety net for those facing food insecurity during the summer months. 

Help Keep North Texas Families Fed 

Together, we can build a North Texas where every child has the opportunity to grow, learn and succeed. Donate today to support food security programs that help children and families thrive—all year long. 

Give Now 

Step Inside 12 Years of Social Innovation at The Showcase

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

For more than a decade, bold ideas and community-driven solutions from our social innovation programming have been reshaping North Texas—often behind the scenes, driven by founders who are deeply committed to tackling our region’s toughest challenges in education, income and health. Now, for the first time, we are bringing it all together. 

On Thursday, June 18, The Showcase invites you to step inside 12 years of social innovation—experiencing the work, meeting the founders and engaging directly with the ideas transforming our community. 

The Showcase 

Thursday, June 18 

6:00 – 9:00 PM 

The Astoria
3216 Royalty Row, Irving, TX 75062 

Get your tickets now for just $25. 

  

From Curiosity to Connection 

The Showcase is a uniquely immersive experience designed to move you from observer to participant. 

During our inaugural event, you’ll explore interactive zones, engage in live workshops and demonstrations, and connect directly with the innovators behind some of North Texas’ most impactful solutions. This is your opportunity to go beyond surface-level understanding and see firsthand how change is built—through persistence, creativity and a willingness to evolve. 

You’ll hear directly from social entrepreneurs about their inspiring origin stories, powerful examples of impact and refreshingly honest insights—not just about wins, but about pivots, tough decisions and the breakthroughs that come from staying committed to the work. 

Who Is The Showcase For? 

Regardless of what kind of change-seeker you are, you’ll find something inspiring at The Showcase. 

If you’re a funder, you’ll get to connect directly with ventures that are actively looking for partners and see where your dollars have already gone to work. If you lead a nonprofit, you can trade notes with innovators who are navigating the same path. If you’re a corporate partner, you’ll find concrete ways your organization can plug into work already underway. And if you’re a student or other curious mind, you’ll get an honest look at what building social change actually involves.  

What You’ll Experience at The Showcase 

Throughout the evening, you’ll have the chance to challenge your thinking, engage your senses and experience some of the innovative organizations that are making an impact across North Texas. The event will include: 

  • Founder-led workshops ranging from hip-hop songwriting to etiquette training, body scrub making, and more 
  • A live barbershop offering shaves, styling and makeup touch-ups 
  • A pop-up farmers market and cooking demos featuring local culinary entrepreneurs 
  • VR empathy simulations and hands-on activations that bring complex challenges to life 
  • Food trucks and light bites from across the community 

At the heart of it all will be meaningful connections with founders who are redefining what impact looks like right here in our community. 

Meet the Changemakers 

The Showcase brings together an inspiring group of innovators and organizations working across the social impact ecosystem, including Dotted (the 2026 Social Innovator of the Year), Cornbread Hustle, Teen Writers Project, Restorative Farms, Urban Arts Collective, Healthy Hip Hop, Dwell with Dignity, Black to the Lab and many more. 

You’ll hear directly from standout leaders and speakers like: 

  • Janet Collinsworth, Founder of Jericho Village  
  • Matthew Porter, Mayor of the City of Wylie  
  • DeJenae Parkman, CEO and Founder of Dotted and 2026 Social Innovator of the Year 
  • Van Parker, 2025 Social Innovator of the Year from Housing Connector 
  • Cheri Norris, Founder of Cornbread Hustle (who will be sharing a major announcement for the first time) 
  • Crystal Dobson, Founder and CEO of CardiacFITT 

Plus, join us in celebrating the next wave of leadership during our Social Innovation Incubator fellow recognition ceremony. 

Go Deeper: The Pollinator Speakeasy 

When you’re ready to move from inspiration to action, The Showcase offers a unique opportunity to find your niche in the future of social innovation in North Texas. You can pledge to become a mentor or volunteer, apply for the Accelerator or Incubator, and more.  

Then, make your commitment visible by planting it at the Impact Tree—and unlock access to the Pollinator Speakeasy, an exclusive experience within The Showcase. 

Inside, you’ll enjoy: 

  • Live music 
  • An adaptogenic Pollinator cocktail 
  • A space designed for deeper connection with fellow changemakers and supporters 
  • A taste of what happens when ideas turn into action 

Why Social Innovation Matters in North Texas 

The challenges facing North Texas are complex—but so are the solutions. As we unite the community to improve access to education, income and health, social innovation is one way that we drive progress toward our Aspire United 2030 goals. 

Social innovation simply means finding new solutions to social problems that are more effective, efficient, sustainable or just than current solutions. This creative approach to improving our community is at the heart of everything we do.  

For the first time ever, The Showcase offers a rare opportunity to see the full social innovation ecosystem at work: founders, supporters, programs and ideas all connected by a shared commitment to impact. 

You’ll leave with inspiration, excitement and a deeper understanding of what it takes to drive change and where you can play a role. 

Join Us 

Whether you’re a long-time United Way supporter, a community leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of innovation to solve real problems—The Showcase is your invitation to engage, connect and invest in what’s possible. 

Get your tickets now and be part of the movement shaping North Texas’ future. 

Healthcare Costs Have Increased for Millions of Americans. How Are North Texans Being Affected?

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

At the end of 2025, Congress failed to extend subsidies that made health insurance more accessible for millions of Americans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Now, we’re starting to see the fallout of that decision, as people across the country face sudden and significant increases in their premium and deductible costs—leading many to lose their insurance coverage altogether.  

The loss of the ACA subsidies is starting to hurt many of our North Texas neighbors, at a time when other costs—including fuel and food—are spiking. In the face of these challenges, it’s important for us to work together to ensure every individual and family has access to the health resources they need to thrive.  

Why We’re Concerned About Health Insurance Changes 

Industry analysts estimate that 20% of Americans who previously had health insurance coverage through the ACA will be forced to drop their insurance this year due to rising costs, according to reporting from The New York Times. That means Texas—which already has the lowest healthcare enrollment rates in the nation—is likely to see even lower enrollment rates, as the progress of the last few years is quickly undone. 

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, health is one of our three focus areas—along with education and income—because we know that good health creates a foundation for every aspect of a person’s life. One of our Aspire United 2030 community goals is to increase to 96% the number of North Texans with access to affordable healthcare insurance.  

Why Cost-Saving Health Insurance Subsidies Ended 

For the last several years, enhanced subsidies made health insurance more affordable through the ACA, by increasing the amount of financial assistance available and expanding eligibility to people with higher incomes. As a result, coverage became more affordable for millions of Americans, and we saw a significant increase in health insurance enrollment nationwide. 

The impacts in Texas were especially noteworthy. Most years, our state has the lowest healthcare enrollment rates in the nation, with 21.6% of all residents not enrolled in healthcare coverage. That includes nearly 14% of Texas children, compared to 6% nationally, who are uninsured.    

Thanks to the subsidies, Texas was the No. 1 state for new ACA signups for several years in a row, in part because 97% of Texans signing up through the Marketplace received subsidies for their premiums. The average premium was $60 a month, but many people paid $10 or less after tax credits.  

Unfortunately, the ACA subsidies were scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. Despite months of debate and an extended government shutdown directly related to this issue, Congress failed to reach an agreement that would extend the policy.  

How People Are Being Affected 

With the subsidies gone, all 24 million Americans who buy their insurance through the ACA Exchange saw their costs increase at the beginning of 2026. In fact, most people’s premiums doubled, while deductibles rose more than they ever have before, by an average of $1,000, according to research by the nonpartisan nonprofit health policy organization KFF.  

Initial ACA sign-ups for 2026 plans fell by about 1.2 million people to 23.1 million people during the 2026 Open Enrollment Period, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. KFF estimates that as many as 5 million people who buy health insurance on the ACA marketplaces may drop their coverage this year.  

Not surprisingly, research has found that Americans are extremely concerned about healthcare costs right now. A KFF survey reported that ACA enrollees are worried about affording their monthly premiums, as well as out-of-pocket medical expenses. And already, healthcare costs are hurting people’s budgets, with 55% of ACA customers saying they are cutting back on spending for food and other household necessities. 

What This Means for North Texas 

Prior to the subsidies ending, health insurance coverage stood around 83% in the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas service area (Dallas, Collin, Rockwall and southern Denton counties). That number is poised to decrease this year, as many of our neighbors are forced out of overly expensive ACA plans.  

For our neighbors from lower-income households, increased healthcare costs will have a ripple effect. North Texans are already struggling with increased prices for food, housing and daily essentials. As health insurance premiums spike, we are likely to see an increase in food insecurity—which our neighbors are already struggling with—as well as other challenging situations like evictions.   

Meanwhile, higher premiums and loss of coverage could destabilize insurance markets nationwide and put greater strain on hospitals and the healthcare system. 

The Live United Movement Is Improving Access to Healthcare 

Now more than ever, programs that ensure greater access to health insurance are vital to the health and economic vitality of our region. When more of our neighbors have access to affordable, quality health insurance, we all benefit in the form of a stronger workforce, lower overall healthcare costs, more successful students and better life outcomes. 

To meet our goal of 96% health insurance coverage across North Texas, we must improve access to health insurance by more than 2% annually.  

The good news is that Texas’ rapid increase in ACA enrollment over the last several years indicates that people in our state want access to affordable, quality insurance. 

Our Healthcare Navigators initiative is one key to expanding healthcare access in North Texas. Our team of Navigators assists uninsured North Texans as they compare and enroll in plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace, CHIP or Medicaid.  

Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace or applying for CHIP or Medicaid can be confusing and stressful. Many people avoid signing up for health insurance because the process is overwhelming or they have language barriers. Now that the ACA subsidies have expired, initiatives like Healthcare Navigators are vital for ensuring more North Texans can maintain their coverage while keeping costs under control.   

Importantly, our Healthcare Navigators also addressed broader family stabilization needs. Navigators routinely connected families to additional resources, including CHIP and Medicaid coverage for children and pregnant women, food assistance programs, and community-based support services. By combining health insurance enrollment with access to integrated supports, United Way strengthens long-term health stability across North Texas communities.  

Each year, our certified enrollment experts assist tens of thousands of North Texans, helping more people access the health coverage and other supports necessary to thrive. In the last year, our navigators had a significant impact on our community, fielding 21,000 client inquiries, assisting 7,680 individuals as they signed up for CHIP/Medicaid and supporting 2,316 consumers as they enrolled in a qualified health plan.  

Together, We Can Ensure Every North Texan Can Get Covered 

As many of our North Texas neighbors face rising health insurance costs and the prospect of losing their coverage altogether, we know we must unite as a community to ensure that access to healthcare continues to expand, despite the challenges we face. 

Donate to United Way now to support programs like Healthcare Navigators, which simplifies health insurance for tens of thousands of our neighbors and ensures more families get the coverage that they need to thrive.  

When School Lets Out, Hunger Doesn’t Take a Break—Here’s How We’re Helping

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

Summer is a time for fun, freedom—and for far too many families in North Texas, uncertainty about where the next meal will come from.  

In Dallas County, one in four children face food insecurity, meaning they don’t know where their next meal will come from. The situation is growing even worse for many local families, as their budgets are being stretched by rising food and gas prices—a challenge that is hitting lower income people the hardest, according to recent research by the New York Federal Reserve Bank.  

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we understand the importance of food access—because without it, families and individuals aren’t able to reach their full potential. That’s why next month we’re bringing the community together for one of our most impactful events of the year—the Summer Meals Kickoff sponsored by Vistra, DN Tanks, PepsiCo Foundation, Rocket Mortgage and Dallas Independent School District. This vibrant, family-friendly celebration—which is part of our Aspire United Volunteer Series presented by Texas Instruments—is designed to ensure children have access to the nutritious food and support they need all summer long. 

Summer Meals Kickoff 

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Albert C. Black Jr. STEAM Academy (4200 Bonnie View Road, Dallas) 

Interested in being part of the fun? We’ll provide you with helpful resources on how to get free meals throughout the summer. You’ll also enjoy free meals during the event, free groceries to take home, snow cones from Kona Ice, music and inflatables, and resources focused on nutrition, wellness and healthy living. 

Register here to secure your spot. 

A Celebration with a Purpose 

Our annual Summer Meals Kickoff is an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together. 

This high-energy morning will provide support to local families by offering: 

  • Free meals from Dallas ISD Food and Nutrition Services that will include brisket sandwiches, vegetables, loaded baked potatoes and milk  
  • Resources on how to access free meals throughout the summer 
  • Free groceries to take home 
  • Snow cones from Kona Ice 
  • A craft station, fun temporary tattoos, DIY pinwheels and a soccer themed painting craft 
  • A soccer challenge game, football, baseball batting, a carnival booth, a Connect 4 basketball game, bubbles, Jenga, cornhole and a soccer relay race 
  • Music and inflatables 
  • Resources focused on nutrition, wellness and healthy living 

But the real work happens after the inflatables come down: connecting families to year-round food programs, school district resources and community partners who can help when the next tough month rolls around.   

Childhood hunger doesn’t just mean an empty stomach. Kids who don’t eat regularly fall behind in school, miss more class days and carry health consequences into adulthood—which is why food access sits at the center of United Way’s work across education, income and health. 

Why Summer Matters So Much 

During the school year, thousands of children rely on school-based meal programs. When summer hits, those reliable meals disappear—and food insecurity rises. 

Our team works year-round with supporters like you to close that gap by expanding access, strengthening partnerships and raising awareness across North Texas. Last year, our Summer Meals Kickoff served around 1,200 of our neighbors, distributing more than 670 hot meals and about 400 boxes of produce to improve food security. 

“Summer should be a time for kids to grow, play and thrive—not worry about where their next meal will come from,” said Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. “The Summer Meals Kickoff is an opportunity for our community to come together, point families toward the resources available and make sure no child in North Texas is left hungry.” 

Powered by Partnership 

Events like this demonstrate the power of our collaborative approach to community impact. We’re deeply grateful to the sponsors who made this event possible: 

  • Aspire United Volunteer Series Sponsor: Texas Instruments 
  • Event Sponsors: PepsiCo Foundation, Vistra, Rocket Mortgage and DN Tanks 

Support Food Access for All  

With hundreds of families expected to attend, the Summer Meals Kickoff is a powerful example of what community action looks like in real time. Volunteers, partners and neighbors come together to create a welcoming environment where families can access the resources they need—and kids can simply be kids. 

Your support makes it possible for United Way of Metropolitan Dallas to expand food access programs, connect families to critical resources and ensure children have the nutrition they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives—not just in the summer, but all year long. 

Donate today to support our food access initiatives and ensure no child in North Texas goes hungry. Together, we can turn summer into a season of opportunity—for every child. 

We Went to Microsoft’s Global Summit. Here’s What We Told the World About North Texas.

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

This spring, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas was honored to be invited by Microsoft to participate in their Global Nonprofit Leaders’ Summit, a convening of nonprofit and technology leaders from around the world committed to advancing digital transformation where it matters most—in communities like North Texas.  

Hosted in Bellevue, Wash., the summit brought together organizations tackling some of the world’s most complex challenges through innovation, collaboration and data. 

We were proud to arrive not just as attendees, but as contributors—bringing the North Texas story to the global stage, highlighting the growing impact of the Live United movement and sharing what five years of field‑tested, community‑centered data practice can achieve when paired with trust, partnership and purpose. 

Why Data Matters Now 

Community‑based organizations today face growing pressure to demonstrate impact, measure outcomes and adapt quickly to changing needs. Yet many lack access to the tools, skills and infrastructure required to effectively use data in their day‑to‑day work. The result is a disconnect between their mission and their impact. 

Our message at the summit was simple but urgent: Data should not be a privilege reserved for a few well‑resourced institutions.  

This is a belief that we’re putting into action in North Texas. Over the last several years, we have worked to make data available to more organizations and pair it with structured “capacity building”—which simply means developing our community partners’ data skills, system and resources. By taking this approach, we are unlocking the potential of the organizations closest to our community’s greatest challenges in our focus areas of education, income and health.  

Introducing Our Data-Driven Approach to the World 

Representing United Way of Metropolitan Dallas were Susan Hoff, chief strategy and impact officer, and Jennifer Sampson, McDermott‑Templeton president and CEO, alongside Dr. Steve Miff, president and CEO of the Parkland Center for Clinical Innovation (PCCI). Together, they joined an extraordinary lineup of international leaders including Tim Bachta of Children International, Douglas Jackson of Project C.U.R.E., Kristanne Littlefield of Women’s Funding Network, and Olivia Harris of Make‑A‑Wish America. 

In our featured session—“Building Data Capacity for Real Impact”—we shared how a regional nonprofit ecosystem like United Way of Metropolitan Dallas can move beyond an approach that Sampson has described as “sprinkling well‑intentioned goodness” to building a data‑driven philanthropic infrastructure that drives measurable, equitable outcomes at scale. 

Democratizing Data Through the Data Capacity Building Initiative 

At the heart of our presentation was the Data Capacity Building Initiative (DCBI)—a key driver of our Aspire United 2030 community‑wide goals in education, income, and health. 

The DCBI represents a bold investment in our next century of impact. Rather than focusing solely on individual programs, the initiative creates a multiplier effect, strengthening the entire nonprofit ecosystem across North Texas by equipping organizations with practical, usable data capabilities. 

Since its launch, the DCBI has supported a curated network of more than 200 strategically aligned nonprofits, providing a scalable model that combines hands‑on training, one‑on‑one technical assistance, ongoing coaching and peer learning, and a shared, powerful data tool called the Community Vulnerability Compass. 

On the verge of beginning its fourth cohort of fellows, the DCBI is proving that when nonprofits are empowered with the right tools and support, they can improve performance, tell richer impact stories and make smarter, more equitable decisions rooted in the realities of the communities they serve. 

“This initiative is about democratizing data—putting powerful analytical tools in the hands of those who are closest to our community’s challenges,” Sampson said. “When you combine data science with structured capacity building and ongoing support, you create real, lasting change.” 

The Community Vulnerability Compass: Data as GPS for Social Impact 

Developed in partnership with PCCI, our external Aspire United 2030 evaluator, the Community Vulnerability Compass (CVC) is the backbone of this work. 

The CVC is grounded in the Healthy People 2030 framework, a federal framework for reducing health disparities. The CVC integrates 27 clinical and socio‑economic indicators that illuminate neighborhood health, resiliency and economic vitality. What makes the tool truly transformative is its hyper‑local lens—mapping need down to the census tract level, not just ZIP codes. 

Think of the CVC as GPS for social impact. It allows us—and the organizations we support—to visualize social barriers to health, access and opportunity with unprecedented precision. We can see where investments will have the greatest effect, identify gaps, track progress and align efforts across sectors. 

At United Way, we’re leveraging the CVC to drive more strategic community investment. Through the DCBI, we’re also putting that same capability into the hands of grassroots organizations—those working daily to improve access to education, income and health. 

Moving from Hope to Strategy 

A recurring theme of our summit session was the idea that, for nonprofits, data is the difference between hoping for change and strategically driving it. 

By equipping community organizations to turn data into actionable insights, the DCBI helps organizations  

  • Expand reach into underserved areas 
  • Improve service delivery 
  • Strengthen evaluation and learning 
  • Tell more compelling, credible impact stories to funders and partners 

As Destiny Davis, senior director of the DCBI, shared, empowering community organizations with data creates a ripple effect—accelerating progress toward shared goals across North Texas. 

These stories from Lone Star Justice Alliance, a member of Cohort 1, demonstrate the real-world potential of the DCBI: 

During the 89th Texas legislative session, Lone Star Justice Alliance used data from the CVC to influence policy change, drilling down to district-level data to make customized arguments to lawmakers. As a result, they reduced by 40% the number of children going to adult court in Texas; prevented survivors of crime from being convicted of the crimes of their abusers; and established an affirmative defense for people who have been victims to not be charged for the crimes of their abusers.   

Lone Star Justice Alliance used CVC data to show how social determinants of health, such as a lack of transportation, can put young people on the path to justice involvement. They took CVC data with them to court when defending a client named Jaquan. They were able to show that his failure to get to work on time was due to a lack of transportation in his area. As a result of their data-driven argument, Jaquan was able to get his driver’s license and access training to become an electrician. He’s now earning $22 an hour as an apprentice.   

Looking Ahead 

As conversations at the Microsoft summit made clear, the future of philanthropy is collaborative, data‑informed and deeply rooted in community. We’re proud to be part of that future—bringing a North Texas model to a global audience and continuing to learn alongside partners who share our commitment to lasting, equitable change. 

Together, we’re proving that data isn’t just numbers—it’s a catalyst for change. And when data becomes a shared asset, communities become stronger, smarter and more resilient. 

Be Part of Our Data-Driven Impact 

Interested in learning more about how the DCBI could benefit your nonprofit organization? Read our new Mid-Year Impact Report, which explores how Cohorts 1 and 2 are leveraging the CVC to benefit more North Texans. 

female teacher reading an ABC book to preschool aged children

Dallas ISD Will Begin Offering Free Universal Pre-K

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

A recent meeting of the Dallas Independent School District (ISD) board resulted in big news for education in our community: The district will offer a universal pre-kindergarten program for all 3- and 4-year-old students starting in the 2026-2027 school year.  

Up until now, the district offered free pre-K to select students who met state eligibility requirements, including those below a certain income level. Families who didn’t meet that criteria had to pay for pre-K and typically spent thousands of dollars every year. But now, all pre-K students living within Dallas ISD can enroll in the program for free. 

This decision will create positive effects across Dallas that extend well beyond a child’s time in kindergarten. It is a prime example of how a single policy change can drive generational change for local families. At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we’re especially excited because the program will positively impact our focus areas of education, income and health.  

Read on to learn more about how the program will work, its impact on local families, and how you can register your child for the upcoming school year. 

What is universal pre-K? 

Universal pre-K is a public policy that provides free, voluntary pre-kindergarten education to all children, regardless of their family’s income or background.  

Universal pre-K is offered in many communities across the country, and in North Texas, Arlington and Fort Worth ISDs already offer it. Many researchers and supporters of the policy say it’s an important step in improving school readiness, bridging achievement gaps, and providing financial relief for lower-income families. 

How Free Pre-K in Dallas ISD Benefits Local Families 

When school districts offer free pre-K, students and their families can benefit in multiple ways, such as: 

  • Stronger performance at school: Not only are students who attend pre-K more likely to be prepared for kindergarten; they also show better academic gains throughout their primary school years. (This includes higher early literacy rates, one of our key Aspire United 2030 goals.) Importantly, kids who went to pre-K are more likely to attend college—which sets them up for a lifetime of higher wages. 
  • Better financial stability: When parents don’t have to pay for pre-K or childcare, they can save thousands of dollars a year. Previously, Dallas ISD parents were spending about $5,000 a year for full-day pre-K classes and $2,500 a year for half-day pre-K classes—money that they won’t have to spend next year. Research shows that universal pre-K also enables parents to achieve better financial stability because they typically can work longer hours and make more progress in their careers. 
  • Improved health: Research has found that pre-K has long-lasting effects on children’s health—and can even lead to longer lifespans. That’s because quality pre-K programs help foster beneficial habits and support healthy childhood development. 
  • A more level playing field: When parents have to pay for pre-K, some middle-income families can’t afford to enroll their children but don’t qualify for subsidized pre-K programs. This can create achievement gaps between them and children from wealthier families—gaps that can persist throughout a child’s entire school career. 

These benefits illustrate why universal pre-K is a policy that our team at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas wholeheartedly supports. Our mission is to improve access to education, income and health so all North Texans can thrive, and offering pre-K to all students is one way to positively impact families in all three of these areas.  

“At United Way, we believe every family deserves a strong start,” said Abigail Sharp, vice president of early childhood initiatives. “Expanding universal pre‑K ensures more children enter kindergarten ready to learn, build important social and emotional skills, and stay on track for long‑term success. When we invest early, we strengthen not only outcomes for children, but also the economic stability and well‑being of families and communities across North Texas.” 

When children are set up for success from an early age, they form a strong foundation that carries them through every stage of life. In fact, universal pre-K directly supports our Aspire United 2030 goals, which are our North Star for driving meaningful change in North Texas through the year 2030. Those key goals include: 

  • Increase by 50% the number of students reading on grade level by third grade 
  • Increase by 20% the number of North Texas young adults who earn a living wage  
  • Increase to 96% the number of North Texans with access to affordable healthcare insurance 

Hillary Evans, vice president of policy and advocacy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, explains, “Universal pre-K is a powerful investment in the future of our community, and we applaud Dallas ISD for expanding access to early education for all of its students. When local children are set up for success from an early age, they are better equipped to become strong readers, go on to earn a living wage and afford quality healthcare for themselves and their own families. Generations of North Texans, and our community as a whole, will benefit from this program.”  

How to Register Your Child for Free Pre-K 

To register for the 2026-2027 school year, visit the Dallas ISD pre-k registration site. You’ll need to complete an online registration form and upload the required documents, which include proof of residency, a birth certificate and immunization records. 

Other Ways You Can Support Local Students 

While universal pre-K in DISD is a major step forward, there’s still plenty of work to do to support local students.  

Together, we can show up for young scholars in our community by ensuring they have access to the educational tools and resources they need to thrive at every age. With a donation to United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, you can support young scholars through programs that include: 

  • Once Upon a Month, which provides children ages 0-5 with a free children’s book and an accompanying parent guide every month to encourage early literacy. A one-time $40 donation can deliver 12 books a year to a child, preparing them for school and early reading. 
  • Dollars for College, which seeds college savings accounts for local students. With just $500 saved, young North Texans are three times more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate. Just $20 a month can fund five accounts per year for local students, opening the door to college success, better job opportunities and greater economic mobility. 
  • Digital Bridges, which delivers free digital technology and support to Southern Dallas residents to support their success in the classroom and beyond. $50 a month can provide two families with laptops, Microsoft Office and bilingual tech support for a year, ensuring children have access to the technology they need to succeed in today’s digital world. 

Tocqueville Members Upped the Ante at 2026 Bench & Bar Boo-Ray Tournament

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

On March 30, members of the Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society gathered at the Crow Library for an evening of friendly competition, connection and philanthropy at the Bench & Bar Boo-Ray Tournament. Hosted by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the Tocqueville Society, the event brought together distinguished leaders from the North Texas legal community for a unique networking experience centered on purpose.

This was a historic evening, as it marked the highest attended Tocqueville Bench & Bar Boo-Ray Tournament to-date.

Designed to strengthen relationships and expand the Tocqueville Society’s impact, the evening celebrated a legacy of service while building momentum for the future. Attendees enjoyed lively rounds of the card game Boo-Ray and the opportunity to connect with peers who share a commitment to driving meaningful change across the region.

The event underscored the power of collective giving and leadership. Through the Tocqueville Society, members continue to champion United Way’s mission, investing in initiatives that improve access to education, income and health for North Texans. As United Way marks the Tocqueville Society’s 40th anniversary, gatherings like this highlight the enduring impact of engaged, community-minded leaders.

“This year is especially meaningful as we kick off our Year of Tocqueville, celebrating the past, present and future of the Tocqueville Society,” said Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO of United Way Metropolitan Dallas. “In fact, this year marks 40 years since Ruth Sharp Altshuler—our beloved ‘Ruthie’—founded the Dallas Tocqueville Society Chapter. It is an exceptional year to honor all that we have built together and all the work we have to do with this group of change-makers and innovators.”

An Ace Event

The evening was defined by spirited gameplay and meaningful connections. Legal leaders from across the region stepped away from their daily roles to engage in a relaxed, collaborative environment—strengthening relationships that extend beyond the courtroom and into the community.

Over the past four years, this tournament has exceeded every expectation, raising more than $700,000 and welcoming more than 60 new Tocqueville members into the United Way family.

This event also served as a reminder of the Tocqueville Society’s continued leadership in advancing United Way’s mission. Through their generosity and advocacy, members are helping shape a brighter future for North Texas families.

The event also honored the legendary leadership of Erin Nealy Cox and Trey Cox, who served as co-chairs of the Tocqueville Society from 2022 until 2025. They have since passed the honor to the new Tocqueville Society co-chairs: Laura and Jason Downing, Jill and Rod Burns, Laura and Jason Downing, Kaori Mitsuhashi and Mike Hsu, and Cristy and David McAtee.

“Erin and Trey have ‘ante’d’ up big time for North Texas,” Sampson said. “They didn’t just make this event a whole lot of fun, they elevated the Tocqueville Society, bringing new energy, new donors and greater impact to our community. Because of leaders like them, United Way is able to do greater work than ever before.”

Three lucky winners received gift cards to Cafe Momentum, a social entrepreneur restaurant—the very first investment of our Social Innovation Accelerator—started by James Beard award-winning chef Chad Houser. Congratulations to our winners, Stephanie Zapata Moore, April Goff and Ning Chiu, who received gift cards awarded by Cecily Gooch on behalf of the events’ presenting sponsor, FTI Consulting.

Save the Date for Our 40th Anniversary Tocqueville Celebration

We are excited to celebrate the Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society’s 40th Anniversary this year. Please save the date for what is sure to be an exceptional celebration of innovation and impact.

Tocqueville Society’s 40th Anniversary Celebration

February 3, 2027
Fairmont Dallas
1717 N. Akard St., Dallas, TX 75201

Thank you to our 40th Anniversary Luncheon Chairs:

  • Jennifer Staubach Gates and John Gates
  • Michelle Staubach Grimes and John Grimes
  • Amy Staubach Mentgen and Jamie Mentgen
  • Stephanie Staubach Phillips
  • Jenny and Jeff Staubach

Read our blog to learn more about the Staubach family and their commitment to United Way’s mission.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Special thanks to the sponsors who made this event possible:

  • FTI Consulting
  • Reed Smith LLP
  • Gibson Dunn
  • Sidley Austin 

Leadership & Host Committee

Finally, a big thank you to our Tocqueville leadership who made the event such a success:

Tocqueville Society Co-Chairs

  • Jill and Rod Burns
  • Laura and Jason Downing
  • Kaori Mitsuhashi and Mike Hsu
  • Cristy and David McAtee

Tocqueville Society Honorary Co-Chairs

  • Erin Nealy Cox and Trey Cox
  • Regen Horchow and Ken Hersh

Women of Tocqueville Chair

  • Katie Rose

Event Co-Chairs, General Counsel Host Committee

  • Katie Kane – Texas Instruments
  • Scott Ewing – Trinity Industries
  • Michele Lau -McKesson

Bench & Bar General Counsel Host Committee

  • Jessica Bateman – Atmos Energy
  • Van Beckwith – Halliburton
  • Shonn Brown – Heidelberg Materials North America
  • Kristen Cook – The Brink’s Company
  • Sarah Decker – McAfee
  • Ashley Duffie – Celanese
  • Von Hays – Comerica Bank
  • John Henrich – Cineworld Cinemas
  • Marc Kesselman – Purdue Pharma L.P.
  • David McAtee – AT&T
  • Grant McGee – Kimberly-Clark Corporation
  • Stephanie Zapata Moore – Vistra Corp.
  • Rachel Morgan – Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
  • Adrienne Mosley – PepsiCo
  • Sandra Phillips – Toyota
  • Rudy Rodriguez – Dave & Buster’s
  • Bryan Stevenson – Arcosa
  • Cathy Tang – Qdoba
father carrying baby girl

Child Abuse Prevention Month: How North Texans Can Help Support Local Families

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, an opportunity for our entire community to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect—and to come together to prevent them. 

Every year, thousands of children across North Texas are abused or neglected. Mistreatment during early childhood development can create negative impacts that last a lifetime, hindering an individual’s success in school, work and relationships; damaging their physical and mental health; and contributing to a cycle of violence. 

On the flip side, individuals, families and entire communities thrive when parents and other caregivers have what they need to succeed—when they feel empowered and informed to support their child’s development at every stage.  

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, parent education is a top priority. We lead and invest in programs that empower parents with knowledge, experience and resources, because when caregivers have what they need to be successful, they create a foundation that supports all three of our focus areas: education, income and health. 

Read on to learn more about how we can all work together to ensure North Texas children are safe and thriving. 

Dallas-Fort Worth Leads the State in Child Abuse Cases 

Child abuse and neglect are far too common, both nationwide and in Texas. Last year, there were nearly 60,000 confirmed victims of child abuse across our state, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Tragically, 124 children died due to abuse and neglect.  

The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex led the state in cases of child abuse and neglect, with 12,091 children served by Child Protective Services (CPS). More than 4,000 of those cases happened in Dallas County alone, making it the third most dangerous county for children in the state.  

How Child Abuse Affects Our Community 

When children are abused or neglected in North Texas, it has a cascading effect on our entire region. 

Not surprisingly, child abuse significantly hinders a young scholar’s academic performance and can lead to lower grades, test scores and graduation rates. Lower graduation rates mean fewer students attending and finishing college. Over the course of their careers, workers without a higher degree or certificate will earn up to $24,000 less annually, on average, than their peers. Workers with lower incomes are more likely to accumulate debt, typically have less savings and are less likely to afford health insurance, leading to poorer health outcomes. 

Meanwhile, the long-term cognitive effects of child abuse—which can include anxiety, depression and mental and physical health conditions—only exacerbate these challenges over a person’s lifetime.  

Abigail Sharp, vice president of early childhood initiatives at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, says we see the effects of child abuse throughout a person’s lifetime and across our communities. 

“Over time, child abuse impacts entire communities by restricting the supply of skilled workers, hindering our economic output and increasing health insurance costs,” she explained. “It really does impact all of us, so it’s important that we work together to empower parents with knowledge and resources, so every child grows up able to reach their full potential. And with thousands of children suffering right now across North Texas, it is urgent that we continue to act through prevention efforts.” 

How to Prevent Child Abuse in North Texas 

Despite the discouraging statistics, there is plenty to be hopeful about. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective services, prevention is a powerful tool, even in the most extreme cases of abuse or neglect. “In nearly every child maltreatment fatality, someone or some system could have intervened and prevented the child’s death,” the agency wrote in its 2025 report on our state’s child abuse trends.  

Research shows that there are a variety of ways to prevent child abuse, including: 

  • Raising awareness of the factors that can contribute to child abuse and neglect, including stress, tiredness and a lack of parenting skills or family/community support  
  • Providing clear, consistent messaging about ways to protect children, such as safe sleep practices and water safety  
  • Highlighting the fact that abuse can happen in families of all backgrounds and income levels  
  • Equipping parents with tools and knowledge about their children and key development milestones so they know what to expect at every stage  
  • Giving caregivers opportunities to build their skills, which enables them to react, even to challenging situations, in a healthy, constructive way 
  • Connecting parents with supportive community resources 

Parental education and support programs directly benefit parents and prevent abuse. At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we lead and invest in programs that empower caregivers to create safe, healthy and happy homes and eliminate common parenting stressors that increase the risk for child abuse and neglect.  

When our community comes together to better support parents, their children are in a better position to thrive in all three of our focus areas—education, income and health—because a safe, healthy home environment creates a lifelong foundation. Preventing child abuse also saves our state significant amounts of money. Serving a single child in the foster care system for a year costs the state of Texas $17,290, which is 17 times the amount our child abuse prevention programming costs to serve one family. 

How We’re Preventing Child Abuse 

United Way has been the lead organization on home visiting in Dallas County since 2012. We connect and collaborate with a variety of organizations that offer home visits to support local parents. Each year, our coalition serves thousands of caregivers in North Texas, giving them the tools and knowledge they need to ward off child abuse and neglect before it ever happens. 

Two of our programs focus specifically on supporting families with young children: 

  • Texas Home Visiting Program: Matches local families with a trained home visitor—a nurse, trained professional or volunteer—to answer questions, offer advice, provide support and help prepare kids for kindergarten. 

During our last fiscal year, more than 3,100 local families participated in a home visiting program through HOPES or Texas Home Visiting Program, benefiting parents, children and the community as a whole.  

Let’s Unite to Prevent Child Abuse 

Child abuse cases remain high in North Texas, and we believe every child deserves protection. Join us as we work to prevent child abuse across our region: 

  • Donate to support child abuse prevention. When you invest in United Way, you create lasting change right here at home. Your donation will help support programs like HOPES and Texas Home Visiting Program and ensure all North Texas children have the opportunity to thrive.  
  • Advocate for strong families. Sign up here to receive our Advocacy Alerts and sign up for our new Policy in Brief newsletter. We’ll let you know how and when to contact your lawmakers to advocate for initiatives that prevent child abuse—for example, HOPES and Texas Home Visiting Program.  

Suspect Child Abuse? 

If you suspect abuse or neglect, contact the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services toll-free at 1-800-252-5400, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also file a report via their Abuse Hotline website. 

Need Support? 

If you are a parent who is struggling, please contact one of our partner agencies for resources and support: