Charlotte County Public Schools, United Way Launch County’s First Community School

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. — Charlotte County Public Schools and United Way Charlotte County are launching Charlotte County’s first United Way Community School at Peace River Elementary. The initiative will bring new resources, services and community partnerships directly to the school while expanding and strengthening supports already in place. It is designed to remove barriers to learning, strengthen families and improve academic outcomes for students.

The Community School model brings education, health, basic needs and family support together through one coordinated system. Working with United Way Charlotte County and community partners, Peace River will serve as a central connection point for students, families and staff, making resources easier to access and better aligned with the needs of the school community.

“For some of our students, success in the classroom begins with meeting needs that extend beyond school,” Superintendent Mark Vianello said. “When a family is worried about food, health care, transportation, or other basic needs, those challenges can affect a child’s ability to learn. This partnership allows us to bring more support directly to Peace River so our students have a stronger foundation for success.” 

The Community School will build on the strong foundation of services currently in place at Peace River, including mental health support, food assistance, after-school programs, health screenings and access to basic needs. Through United Way Charlotte County, the school will significantly expand the resources and opportunities available to students and families, connecting them with additional health and wellness services, financial assistance and education, enrichment opportunities, community partners and volunteers. 

“We have incredible organizations, businesses and people throughout Charlotte County who want to make a difference,” Angie Matthiessen, CEO of United Way Charlotte County, said. “The Community School gives us a way to connect that generosity and expertise directly with families at Peace River. It creates a central place where resources can come together, relationships can grow and community partners can work alongside families to respond to the needs that matter most.”

Peace River Elementary will serve as the starting point for the Community School initiative, with the goal of developing a sustainable model that can grow and benefit more students and families throughout Charlotte County.

To learn more about this initiative, please visit: https://unitedwayccfl.org/peace-river-elementary