Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1542829
8 | 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT | UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL AND NORTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT "After years of working in the public schools and seeing the challenges that students have reaching proficiency in reading math, I realized that for me, being part of the solution meant reaching children earlier," said Karen Lott, Executive Director of Women's League. Under Lott's leadership, Women's League has focused on introducing preschool children to science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) as a key strategy to provide a head start on developing skills for 21st century careers. "When we focus on teaching our youngest learners in a variety of areas, we are creating the building blocks for their future success. Children's brains develop most rapidly between ages zero and five and that is why providing these high-quality learning experiences early is so critical," continued Lott. >>Continued from previous page REMEMBERING DR. FREDERICK G. ADAMS U nited Way's Community Service Award has been presented every year since 1951 and is the highest honor given to a volunteer. The Community Service Award is also given in memory of Dr. Frederick G. Adams who was a leader in health care. Dr. Adams, a prominent dentist, was known not only for his expertise in the field but for his commitment to the community. He became the first Black Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Health in 1991 and also served as Chair of the State Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. Dr. Adams also was a leadership volunteer with several community-based organizations, including serving on the board of United Way. Dr. Adams was always on the forefront of public health policy, advocating for health care for people of color and those living in poverty. He was known for reaching out to people and meeting them where they were to provide resources and information. We thank Dr. Adams for his commitment and honor his legacy of improving community conditions in Connecticut. ONWARD860 CHAMPION AWARD CRITERIA The Onward860 Champion Award was designed to recognize an organization in our community that is a leader in helping end poverty by closing gaps in child literacy, housing, wages and/or life expectancy. The organization is a partner with United Way and its activities, in addition to being involved with other community initiatives. The recognition is determined by an impartial volunteer committee annually comprised of past Community Service Award and Onward860 Champion Award honorees.