Who We Are

Our mission is to support the healthy development of children and youth in the Greater Mankato Area United Way service area through engagement in organized out-of-school time Youth Development and Youth Enrichment opportunities.

Connecting Kids is an organization funded by the Greater Mankato Area United Way and generous donations from other local organizations and foundations. We work closely with community partners who offer a variety of programs to provide direct services to families of eligible children and youth so that they will have the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial barriers.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to align with our mission and maintain sustainability of the program, all participants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Meet the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. For the purposes of our program, we identify that as children and youth who have been approved for the free or reduced lunch program. If your family does not participate in the free or reduced lunch program, but you believe your child should be eligible for a scholarship, Connecting Kids may consider assistance on a case-by-case basis. If you would like more information about the free and reduced lunch program, contact your school's district office. (For information on how to apply, please see our FAQs page.)

  2. Residency. You must reside in the service area of the Greater Mankato Area United Way (Blue Earth, Nicollet, Le Sueur, and Waseca counties).

  3. Age. Scholarships are available for students currently in grades K-12 (or entering into grades K-12).

  4. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities. Parents/Guardians are responsible for registering their children with the organization/program provider, as well as knowing and meeting all requirements of the organization/program provider. Requirements may include: attending parent meetings, signing release forms, providing equipment and appropriate clothing (uniform) and shoes. Parents/Guardians are responsible for transporting child to and from scheduled practices, rehearsals and events.

If your child meets these requirements, click here to learn how to apply!