10 Facts About UCM
1. We have 45 years of experience! UCM has been working in the community since 1969. Since our beginning, we have grown to aid people in all aspects, from basic needs to computer literacy. Our eight locations are spread around the Mount Vernon Community, including an office inside the Fairfax County Health Services Center.
2. Community is our middle name. Just like our logo says, UCM is the “Heart of Community.” We have amazing participation from individuals and organizations, such as area scouting groups, churches, businesses, school groups, and individuals. 3. We help with the basics. Our Basic Needs Program provides necessities such as food and rental assistance to families in need. All families also go through a needs assessment and counseling services with our trained social service staff, to ensure that the aid we provide is tailored to their exact needs. 4. Kids are our future! From babies to teens, UCM programs ensure kids grow up in enriching and nurturing environments. Whether they are receiving early education at Bryant Early Learning Center, leadership preparation in our Forward Steps program, or community support from Mount Vernon’s Opportunity Neighborhood, we help kids gain the skills and participate in opportunities to reach new heights. 5. We help adults find work. The Progreso Center hosts English and Citizenship classes to help immigrants fully participate in the community. Our Work Center gives them the skills they need to find a job and be successful employees. 6. We create community – UCM community centers in Creekside Village and in the Sacramento neighborhood create a safe place for children to come after school and a central location for groups to meet. These facilities also provide free computer and internet access to adults during specified hours of the day. 7. Your trash becomes someone else’s treasure. – The Back Porch Thrift Store helps old items find new uses. Store profits stay in the community, and vouchers help families in need to obtain home goods and clothing at little or no cost. 8. Business Partners – UCM is thankful to have the support of both locally and nationally recognized businesses. In turn, we connect our sponsors with philanthropic publicity, team volunteer opportunities, and much more. 9. We have many Friends – The Friends of UCM is a group of outstanding women in the Mount Vernon community who build a sense of community spirit and pride through fundraising and public attention for UCM. They organize our annual Gala and Capitol Steps fundraisers. 10. There are many ways to join us! We will hardly ever turn down a volunteer or donation. UCM offers many opportunities for groups and individuals to help their community. From working with young children to sponsoring a virtual food drive, UCM connects community resources with the people who need it the most. |