United Way of New York City President and CEO Rings Nasdaq Closing Bell

On July 31, 2024, United Way of New York City (UWNYC)'s President and CEO, Grace C. Bonilla, rang the Nasdaq Closing Bell, marking a significant moment for our organization and the communities we serve. For 86 years, UWNYC has been a driving force in advancing economic mobility for underserved New Yorkers. Through our initiatives, like Read & Write + Code, we are helping to build a stronger, more inclusive city - one that thrives through the success of all its people.

The closing bell, a powerful emblem of New York City's resilience and economic strength, served as the perfect stage to emphasize the vital role education equity plays in creating a brighter future. During the ceremony, Grace reminded viewers of UWNYC's unwavering efforts to ensure that every New Yorker has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

The Read & Write + Code initiative, which launched in 2023, builds on the success of our ReadNYC program in the Bronx, focusing on literacy and wellness through home, school, and community libraries. It equips teachers with innovative methods for instruction and culturally responsive pedagogy.

In collaboration with partners like the National Council of Teachers of English, Read & Write + Code works to make computer science education accessible to children in underserved schools across New York City, integrating these concepts into core subjects like English Language Arts. Read & Write + Code prepares children for civic and economic engagement in the age of AI, and addresses historical inequities in education, particularly for students who identify as female, Black, or who experience poverty.

Our efforts are supported by generous donors, including the New York City Department of Education, the Department of Youth and Community Development, American Express, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Google, and TD Bank Charitable Foundation. Their contributions are crucial to advancing our mission of education equity and digital inclusion.

In addition, Women United of New York City, a dedicated group of professional women leaders committed to creating opportunities within our local communities, have been pivotal partners. For a decade, they have championed our ReadNYC and Read & Write + Code initiatives, raising critical funds through the Power of Women to Make a Difference Awards Luncheon and beyond. Their contributions are crucial to advancing our work in education equity and digital inclusion.

At UWNYC, we remain committed to breaking down barriers and building opportunities that improve the lives of low-income New Yorkers ensuring that everyone has a chance to succeed.

Together, we can create a brighter future for all New Yorkers. To get involved, visit unitedwaynyc.org/get-involved.