Innovating to Boost Early Learning in Colombia

In Colombia, only 44% of children graduate grade school. That undermines their success in work and life. That's why United Way Colombia has worked to support learning for children, parents and teachers, starting in the early school years.

United Way extended psychological and socio-emotional support to 3,350 teachers and 114,000 students and their families. This support included tools for kids, tips for parents and teachers, and virtual teacher training on creativity. United Way also created the “Virtual Maker Lab” to boost teachers’ effectiveness in distance learning, using platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and mass media. To help parents, United Way developed videos and images to spark children’s creativity while also offering mental health benefits like meditation, music and reading. 

Around the world, United Ways continue to build the bridges that meet ever-evolving needs among youth and their families.