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We know that earning a high school diploma is a key milestone on the path to economic mobility. In collaboration with many education and community partners, we help more students reach that milestone through Promise Student Advocates, a mentorship initiative that pairs students one-on-one with a caring adult mentor or "advocate." Advocates work with students to set goals, navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom, access resources, and plan for life after high school.
Check out this video and case study created by national partner StriveTogether that demonstrates how our work is helping more students graduate high school on a college or career path. This month's newsletter highlights what we can achieve when we collaborate across sectors, hold one another accountable, and align around shared goals. Together, we ensure students have the resources and support they need to succeed, improve graduation rates at scale, and strengthen the future workforce for our state.
Sincerely,
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Amy Ahrens Terpstra
Chief Impact Officer, Promise Partnership Utah |
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PROGRAM UPDATE
Hector's Story: How Mentorship Transformed One Student's Education Journey
The Promise Student Advocates mentorship initiative is making a difference for 412 students in four local high schools across Granite, Canyons, and Salt Lake City School Districts. One of those students is Hector—a junior at Cottonwood High School. When Hector first connected with his mentor, Alo Moli, during his freshman year, he was missing class regularly and felt disconnected from school. Alo checked in with Hector each week and asked him about school and life outside of school, building trust over time.
Together, they set goals to attend class more consistently, complete assignments, and follow up with teachers. This personal connection and sustained support paid off. Hector's attendance increased from 13% to 90%, and now he's on track to graduate. He plans to attend community college to become a mechanic or start a custom construction business. Read more of Hector's story in this student spotlight published by national partner StriveTogether to see how receiving mentorship support can transform a student's education journey.
"I actually like going to my classes and doing my work now. I ask for help from my teachers and I want to set goals. I want to be the second in my family to walk across the stage and make my family proud and I want to make Alo proud too." - Hector, Student at Cottonwood High School |
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DONOR SPOTLIGHT
One Diamond Donor's Decades of Impact
Diamond Donors lead the way in building lasting change, supporting United Way of Salt Lake for 20 years or more. Julie M. Bradford's sustained support as a Diamond Donor spans more than two decades and demonstrates the powerful impact one person can have on the community.
Bradford connected with United Way of Salt Lake early in her career through the Young Leaders network. Since then, her support has driven initiatives to expand early childhood education and resources for local children and families. As a member of Women United for the past 13 years, Bradford champions programs that empower women, eliminate barriers, and strengthen communities.
"It's important for us to recognize when we receive help, and then to return the favor and support those who are in need," said Bradford. "There are seasons of our lives when we can donate, volunteer, or do both. All contributions are meaningful and valuable."
Diamond Donors like Bradford remind us that consistent, collective support advances opportunities for all children and families across our community. |
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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Celebrating National Volunteer Week!
National Volunteer Week is April 19-25. On behalf of United Way of Salt Lake, thank you to the volunteers who step up, show up, and inspire our community. Over the past 12 months, 1,285 volunteers contributed a total of 2,850.65 hours to projects benefiting kids and families across the Wasatch Front. That's a value of $97,999.14* in participant time!
That impact came to life this March, as volunteers celebrated Read Across America by reading one-on-one with students, teaching classrooms about illustrated novels, and organizing school libraries to help children discover the joy of books.
Thank you to the volunteers who help students have the support and resources they need to thrive. Want to join in on the fun? Explore United Way of Salt Lake's volunteer opportunities here.
*Based on the Independent Sector's national wage replacement rate of $34.79/hour |
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ADVOCACY UPDATE
SB 165 Becomes Law
After our top priority bill, the SB 165 Economic Mobility Initiative passed both the House and Senate in the final moments of the legislative session, Gov. Spencer Cox signed the bill into law on March 18, establishing the REACH Initiative (Raising Expectations through Accountability, Community, and Hope). Although SB 165 did not receive dedicated funding, its passage marks a significant milestone for aligning systems and expanding community-based partnership work statewide.
The legislature is in recess during March and April, but the implementation work on the ground is in full swing to launch the REACH framework and build on the momentum of this pivotal moment. This includes planning summits to convene leaders from across southern Utah, developing a technical assistance model, and building shared data systems that allow communities to track progress and continuously improve. SB 165 establishes the foundation needed to strengthen statewide coordination and shape the future of opportunity in Utah. In case you missed it, read our full blog recap of the 2026 legislative session. |
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
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Utah Gives Day
April 30, 2026
Participate in this 24-hour celebration of generosity by supporting United Way of Salt Lake and other local nonprofits that shape our state.
Learn More and Give |
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Power of Your Purse Gala
May 8, 2026 | Asher Adams Hotel
This year's theme, "Rooted in Purpose," celebrates the resilience and vision that inspires our work. Even as we grow, innovate, and rise to meet the evolving needs of our community, our mission remains a steady foundation that guides us forward. This year, the silent auction and paddle raise will benefit Promise Baby & You and the Deborah S. Bayle Scholarship Fund for Youth. Don your garden party chic attire and join us for this fun and impactful evening.
Purchase Tickets |
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