Supporting Students,

Strengthening Our Community

At United Way of Lebanon County, we partner with Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania (CISPA) to surround students with the support they need to stay in school and reach their full potential. CIS is the nation’s leading dropout-prevention network, and our local investment brings this proven model directly into Lebanon County classrooms.

Why CISPA Matters in Lebanon County

Many students face significant barriers that can make learning difficult– academic struggles, family stress, food insecurity, inconsistent access to supplies, or social-emotional challenges. Some children in Lebanon County come from families who face economic struggles at home, like choosing between paying for food, healthcare, or rent. When these needs aren't met, school becomes overwhelming, attendance drops, and long-term success becomes harder to achieve. CISPA removes these barriers by bringing resources, caring adults, and practical solutions right into the school environment.

In the Lebanon School District, our investment currently supports the employment of a Community School Coordinator at Northwest Elementary School and Henry Houck Elementary School. Union Canal Elementary and Ebenezer Elementary Schools in the Cornwall-Lebanon School District joined our community schools program in the 2024–25 school year.

Through our partnership with Communities In Schools, United Way funds Community School Coordinators who help address barriers to education and ensure students and their families have access to resources within both the school system and the larger community. Their work ensures children have what they need to succeed in school, build confidence, and stay on track academically. By supporting CISPA, United Way of Lebanon County contributes to its long-term goal of stabilizing families, removing barriers to learning, and creating opportunities for children to succeed both in school and in life.

How CISPA Supports Students in Lebanon County

Tutoring and academic help to keep students progressing

Mentoring programs that offer encouragement and trusted relationships

Basic-needs assistance such as meals, clothing, hygiene products, or school supplies

Social-emotional support that builds resilience, confidence, and healthier coping skills

Life skills and enrichment programming that prepare children for long-term success

Education and sports collide in vibrant still life — books, apple, basketball, and pens.
CISPA coordinators focus on these core goals:
  • Increase parent engagement
  • Increase student attendance
  • Decrease behavioral issues
  • Align community resources to meet student and family needs
  • Providing targeted case management services to 35 students
  • Launching a girls’ self-esteem group at Northwest Elementary
  • Implementing an anti-bullying group at Lebanon Middle School
  • Coordinating support with programs like Power Packs and the Be The One Parenting Program

When students have consistent support and know their basic needs will be met, they’re more likely to show up to school, stay engaged, and graduate. CIS’s model is proven nationwide– and now, through United Way Lebanon County’s investment, these results are becoming a reality for students in our own community.

23-24+Cornwall-Lebanon+School+District+Annual+Report.pdf

23-24+Lebanon+School+District+Annual+Report.pdf

Explore national Communities In Schools initiatives at
www.communitiesinschools.org.