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The United Way of North Central Massachusetts (UWNCM) has awarded $294,690 in grants to 16 local agencies to expand opportunities for young people across the region through after-school and out-of-school programs that support learning, personal development, and well-being.
Provided through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) After School and Out-of-School Time (ASOST) Program and in partnership with the United Ways of Central and South-Central Massachusetts, the funding supports a wide range of programs that help young people learn, grow, and thrive beyond the classroom.
Funded programs range from recreational activities and career-readiness programs to equine-assisted therapy. These opportunities help young people develop leadership skills, build confidence and discipline, explore new interests, and strengthen the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Through its partnership with DESE, UWNCM has distributed more than $2.1 million to local agencies over the past several years, supporting nonprofit organizations, public school systems, and municipalities. This latest award marks the partnership’s 12th funding distribution and will support programs during the 2026–2027 school year.
“Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build confidence, and envision a bright future, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances. Through our partnership with DESE and our United Way partners, we’re helping local organizations create safe, supportive environments where young people can develop the skills and relationships they need to thrive. This investment reflects our commitment to strengthening our communities by ensuring that more children and teens have access to meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed,” said Judy Tomlinson, Director of Community Impact at the United Way of North Central Massachusetts.
Among this year’s grant recipients is The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center in Lunenburg, which uses the funding to help make its programs accessible to more young people.
“The DESE-ASOST funding we receive through the United Way of North Central Massachusetts provides far more than financial support. It helps us offer scholarships, so cost isn’t a barrier for families, while sustaining programs that promote academic growth, healthy lifestyles, leadership, and self-confidence. Because of this funding, our Club can offer more opportunities for young people to explore their interests, build character, and develop the skills they need to succeed,” said Michelle Belleza, Executive Director at The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center.
