News

May 6, 2025: 

As the academic year winds down, school-age children need to be reminded that the community is pulling for them to finish strong.

To that end, United Way of the Southern Tier is once again collecting notes of encouragement for local students. A simple message such as "You can do it!" or "You've got this!" is all it takes to spark confidence.

Here's how to participate (or download this instruction sheet):

Supplies:

You'll need card stock or heavy paper, markers, crayons, or colored pencils.

Instructions:

1. Fold your card stock or construction paper to make a card.
2. Draw a simple picture on the card cover (emoji, flowers, balloons, animal, robot, etc.).
3. Inside the card, hand-write a simple note of encouragement.
4. Please do not write in cursive.
5. Please do not sign the note. 

Sample messages:
• Finish Strong!
• You Can Do It!
• You've Got This!
• Believe In Yourself!
• Give It Your All!

DEADLINE: Drop off or mail cards to United Way of the Southern Tier, 88 E. Tioga Ave., Suite 102, Corning, NY 14830, no later than 5 p.m. Friday, May 30.

The notes will be distributed to children in kindergarten through 12th grades in Chemung and Steuben counties.

For more information, please contact United Way Coordinator of Community Engagement Hope Howell by email or at 607-377-5836.