ucm of alexandria va "at the heart of community"

United Community Ministries is one of the largest providers of human services in Fairfax County. UCM mobilizes the power of community to equip, educate, and empower vulnerable people to measurably improve their lives. UCM is "At the Heart of Community," providing a vital connection between people in need and the people committed to helping them thrive. Services include: Immediate Help. For families and individuals in crisis, UCM provides emerbency food, financial aid, counseling, and referrals Education and Employment. Services for children, youth, and adults include: full-day early care and learning, after-school programs at our two community centers, parental education and leadership development via Mount Vernon Opportunity Neighborhood, and ESL and citizenship classes at Progreso Center that increase employability and economic resilience. Community Engagement. UCMs neighborhood centers, with after-school programs and leadership training, engage youth and families in broader social networks for success. Each year, thanks to generous community support, UCM provides life-changing assistance to an average 5,000 families in south Fairfax County. More than 40% of the people we serve are children. Our caring counselors, staff, and volunteers are trained to spot both challenges and opportunities. As a result, clients receive referrals to employment training or placement, quality child care or after-school programs, ESL and citizenship classes, parenting education, and other essential services to become strong members of our community. Together, we are changing lives -- and lifting up all our hearts! Follow UCM on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/UCM.Alexandria Follow UCM on twitter @UCMAlex or http://www.twitter.com/UCMAlex