United Way’s Young Leaders Society raised $25,000 to fund the purchase and recent installation of five hydration stations at all five schools in Robla School District in Sacramento. The stations, which provide drinking water and encourage kids to choose water over sugary drinks, were unveiled at each school on Feb. 5. United Way’s Young Leaders Society members descended upon the schools to pass out United Way reusable water bottles to all 2,500 students in the district. In preparation for the unveiling, students received in-classroom education on the health benefits of drinking water instead of sugary drinks through a partnership with the Health Education Council.
“Our kids are fascinated by technology, so we know these hydration stations will be a far bigger draw for the kids than traditional drinking fountains,” said Ruben Reyes, superintendent, Robla School District. “And because the kids are excited about the hydration stations and have been receiving important education about the dangers of sugary drinks, we know we will see more kids drinking water and making healthy choices.”
The stainless steel hydration stations are mounted on walls and include a cooler and bottle filling station in an ADA-compliant design. Each station holds up to 3,000 gallons of filtered water, and an LED light shows students when their bottle is full. United Way’s Young Leaders Society plans to install five more stations this summer.
“The hydration stations play an important part in educating children to make healthier choices every day,” said Lindsey Smith, chair, United Way’s Young Leaders Society. “Being able to be a part of this initiative from start to finish and to see how excited the students are about the Rethink your Drink program has been extremely gratifying. The fact that we are able to make a difference in these students’ lives and create a partnership with the Robla School District helps us realize the potential of our future Young Leaders Society projects.”
United Way’s Young Leaders Society unites young professionals to make a collective impact on health and education for kids through volunteer work and financial support. For more than 90 years, United Way California Capital Region has brought people together to meet pressing needs in the Sacramento region and has changed the lives of hundreds of children, families and adults. Now United Way is mobilizing nonprofits, companies, schools, government and individuals across the region, state and country to make a collective impact in the areas of education, financial stability and health in Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. To donate or volunteer, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org.