Toothbrushes. Running water. Medical care. In America, these things are commonplace, a part of daily life people don’t stop to think about. In the summer, tourists visit beautiful, tropical beaches without thinking about the people who actually live there. For those people, it is not a location for a paradise vacation; it is their home where they lack the basic necessities that Americans take for granted.

Although originating in Virginia, United Way has grown to have over 1,200 local offices across the country, including the Brazos Valley. Brazos Valley has its own local office and has created many opportunities for youth to get involved and learn how to be an active member in the community.