When Djay Wilcher first started giving to United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley, he did not know much about the organization. During the six years that Djay has worked as a Customer Service Team Leader at Publix, he has learned about the impact United Way has on the community.
United Way partner agencies receive funding from United Way for their programs. The Boys & Girls Club, a United Way partner agency, receives funding for its programs that develop character, leadership, education, and career skills. Feeding The Valley Food Bank receives funding for its Kids Café, a program that serves meals after school to children in need.
As a former Boys & Girls Club member and Kids Café participant, Djay realizes the importance of United Way. According to Djay, the Boys & Girls Club was very helpful during his childhood. Being a member of the Boys & Girls Club allowed him to develop social skills, take an art class, and spend time with kids from a similar background. “I was able to go on field trips that I wouldn’t have been able to go on without the Boys & Girls Club,” said Djay.
After school, Djay and his siblings would go to the Kids Café, where he received help with his homework and spent time with his peers. According to Djay, Kids Café made him feel right at home. “I thought it was just something every kid went to,” said Djay. “Kids Café was a huge help to my grandmother. I never knew why we really went there, and no kid should have to know that their family is struggling,” he added.
