The Saint John Learning Exchange (SJLE) provides wraparound support to learners. The United Way Maritimes provides wraparound support to the organizations creating change in our community.
Together, they have created opportunities for growth and impact in the community.
As an organization that is committed to community impact, the United Way invests in local initiatives that address the root causes of poverty, while strengthening the nonprofit sector as a whole. Beyond funding, the United Way serves as a connector, bringing together partners, supporting collaboration, and helping organizations build the capacity they need to create lasting change and impact.
This approach aligns closely with the Saint John Learning Exchange’s mission.
Through innovative education, employment pathways, and empowerment programs, SJLE provides the wraparound supports that learners need to overcome barriers, build confidence, and create sustainable change. Together, both organizations share a belief that lasting change comes from investing in people and creating opportunities that extend well beyond immediate needs.
Investing in Long-Term Change
The United Way is an organization that does much more than solely provide funding.
They connect people and partners, share knowledge, and strengthen the nonprofit sector so organizations can have an even greater impact in the communities they serve.
As Alexya Heelis, the Vice-President Community Relations for United Way Maritimes, explains, funding is only one part of the relationship.
“There’s a misconception that we just provide a cheque. That’s not it.”
By helping organizations navigate new challenges, making introductions across sectors, advocating for community priorities, or creating opportunities for collaboration, the United Way works alongside its partners to help them succeed.
This support allows SJLE to continue innovating, responding to learner needs, and expanding opportunities across the region.
When considering organizations to support, the United Way looks for partners that focus on prevention, intervention, innovation, and creating pathways out of poverty.
Alexya explains that SJLE has consistently demonstrated those qualities:
“The Learning Exchange represents the very best of community impact, client-centred in its approach, innovative in its thinking, collaborative in its partnerships, and transformational in its results.”
The shared value of creating lasting solutions rather than temporary relief, both organizations believe in helping people build the skills, education, and confidence needed to create long-term stability for themselves and their families.
A Partnership Built on Trust
Over the years, the relationship between the United Way and SJLE has grown through transparency, collaboration, and shared willingness to support one another.
Both organizations regularly exchange ideas, collaborate on community initiatives, and utilize each other’s expertise to strengthen impact. The partnership is sustained by amplifying learner stories, responding to emerging community needs, and supporting one another behind the scenes, built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to the community.
“What I value most about the Learning Exchange is our transparent and collaborative partnership. It truly is a strong, reciprocal partnership,” shared Alexya.
That approach has allowed both organizations to grow together while remaining focused on the people and communities they serve.
Strengthening Community Together
No single organization can solve complex social challenges alone.
The United Way understands that lasting community impact comes from investing in strong partnerships with organizations that share its vision for the future. By supporting innovative organizations like the Saint John Learning Exchange and working alongside them as collaborators and supporters, the United Way helps strengthen the entire network of organizations creating change across our region.
Together, the United Way Maritimes and the Saint John Learning Exchange continue to demonstrate that meaningful impact is built through collaboration. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to people, they are creating opportunities that help individuals, families, and communities thrive.
