Helping more young people find a place to belong: Kay Clint Fund invests in Lakes Center.
Sometimes, the biggest difference we can make is helping someone get through the door.
For young people, having a place where they feel welcomed, supported, and connected can make a lasting difference. But getting there isn't always easy. Through our 2026 Kay Clint Fund investment, we are helping Lakes Center remove one of the biggest barriers families face: transportation.
Lakes Center walks alongside youth and families during pivotal moments, when connection and care can change the course of a life. Through its For Young People program, Lakes Center provides community-based opportunities for youth ages 12-18 to build meaningful relationships, find support, and connect with their community.
For many of the young people and families served, transportation can determine whether they are able to participate at all. That's where the Kay Clint Fund comes in.
This year's grant will support the purcahse of a second passenger van, expanding Lakes Center's transportation capacity and allowing the organization to reach more young people. With additional transportation, more youth will have access to consistent mentoring, supportive relationships, group activities, shared meals, and opportunities to connect with others.
Transportation should never stand between a young person and a place where they feel they belong.
Investing in ideas that strengthen our community.
The Kay Clint Fund provides one-time start-up funding to help local organizations launch new, innovative, or pilot programs that address emerging needs in our community. Originally established in 1963 to spark creative solutions to unmet needs, the fund was renamed in 1989 to honor Kay Clint, who served as United Way of Washington County-East's Executive Director from 1974 to 1988.
We're proud to invest in Lakes Center and its commitment to creating meaningful connections and brighter opportunities for young people and families throughout our community. When we remove barriers and invest in opportunities for connection, we help create a community where everyone has the the chance to thrive.
To learn more about Lakes Center and its For Young People program, visit www.lakescenter.org
