I Live United Growing up, I was lucky to have mentors to guide me. Today, as a Ford Motor Company employee I have the opportunity to return the favor by mentoring other young girls. I’ve worked with six girls over the past six years, and I’m proud to say that each has completed high school. Education is an important building block for a good life, and graduating is critical to success in life. However, too many of our youth are dropping out. In fact, 35 schools in southeast Michigan have dropout rates of 40 percent or higher. United Way is doing something to combat this sobering trend by working with schools, businesses, organized labor and other partners to improve dropout rates in our region. As a mentor, I’m able to personally help young people realize the importance of an education and to get a diploma. My name is Alicia, and this how I Live United. Give. Advocate. Volunteer. Live United.