News

Nearly 1,500 Volunteers UNITE to Transform the Valley in a Single Day of Service at United Way’s 32nd Day of Caring, Presented by Crayola

Nearly 1,500 energetic volunteers UNITED to complete community service projects at 60 area nonprofits during the 32nd United Way Day of Caring, presented by Crayola and coordinated by Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.

“At United Way, our work begins and ends with service. Day of Caring is a moment where that commitment shines the brightest,” shared Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “To see so many people from across the Valley come together—neighbors, coworkers and friends, all giving their time to strengthen the nonprofits that serve us all, is powerful. This event has grown year after year, and the impact goes far beyond the projects. It’s about belonging, connection and showing that when we’re UNITED, our community thrives”

United Way kicks off its annual campaign with Day of Caring, which is the largest single-day volunteer effort in the community.

“With over 1,500 volunteers safely working together to help our community, Day of Caring shows us that when we all work together toward a common goal, anything is possible,” said 2025 United Way Campaign Co-Chair Mike Molewski of CAPTRUST.

In the Greater Lehigh Valley, approximately 1,500 local employees from 60 companies and organizations contributed more than 8,200 hours of service valued at $284,475 to more than 60 nonprofits in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Some Day of Caring projects included:

  • Spending the morning with older adults at Slate Belt Senior Center with Crayola
  • Cleaning Paxinosa Elementary School’s outdoor classroom with Victaulic
  • Cleaning and beautifying Sixth Street Shelter with PPL Corp.
  • Preparing the warming station at River Crossing YMCA for the upcoming fall and winter season with Alvin H. Butz and Senator Coleman’s Office
  • Cleaning Central Elementary STREAM Academy’s school grounds, organizing donation closets, cleaning windows and helping in classrooms with Air Products, City Center Group and United Way Women United
  • Painting the resource room at The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties, creating goody bags and gardening with Just Born Quality Confections

“Connecting volunteers with local nonprofits is at the heart of what we do at the Volunteer Center. United Way Day of Caring takes that connection to another level, offering nonprofits a strong network of support while giving businesses a meaningful way to engage their employees. With 1,500 volunteers mobilized this year, our partnership with United Way continues to create a ripple effect of impact by strengthening organizations, building teams and enriching the community we all share,” said Karen Smith, CEO, Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.

Day of Caring’s presenting sponsor is Crayola with additional support from:

  • Exclusive Lunch Sponsor PPL Corp.
  • Silver Sponsor Comcast;
  • Bronze Sponsors AAA East Central, Highmark Blue Shield, Just Born Quality Confections, Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health, Hank and Joanne Barnette and Moravian University and Quandel; and
  • In-kind contributors ASR Media, Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Uline and Working Dog Press.

News

Marci Lesko Named to Lehigh Valley Business’ 2025 Power List for Health Care and Human Services

Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

We’re proud to share that Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, has been named to Lehigh Valley Business’ 2025 Power List for Health Care and Human Services.

This recognition honors leaders who shape our communities and influence quality of life across the region. Marci was highlighted for her strategic leadership, long-term vision and commitment to fostering a culture of belonging and shared purpose at United Way.

“During my first year as president and CEO, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley raised a record-breaking $26 million through its annual campaign and navigated meaningful partnerships and mergers that will create lasting impact on the region. Among United Way’s many accomplishments, I am most proud of serving our community of Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties with our best-in-class organization,” Lesko said.

We’re grateful for Marci’s leadership and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition as a Power Player in the Lehigh Valley.

Read the full Lehigh Valley Business Power List for Health Care and Human Services here.

News

United Way Day of Caring Mobilizes 1,500 Volunteers During the Region’s Largest, Single Day of Community Service

WHAT: United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will celebrate its 32nd Day of Caring, presented by Crayola and coordinated by Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley, with approximately 1,500 energetic volunteers completing community service projects at dozens of nonprofits throughout Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties.

WHERE: Various nonprofit locations throughout Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton

WHEN: Thursday, September 18, 2025
8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Times vary by location)
Media is invited to join us for all or part of the day.

EVENT DETAILS:
Nearly 1,500 volunteers from 60 local businesses will UNITE to make meaningful impact on Thursday, September 18 as they volunteer their time during United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s 32nd Day of Caring, presented by Crayola. In partnership with the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley, Day of Caring is the community’s largest, single-day volunteer effort and marks the public launch of United Way’s 2025 Campaign.

Together with over 60 nonprofit partners, volunteers will complete more than 65 projects across Lehigh and Northampton counties. United Way leadership will join volunteers throughout the region as they renovate rooms at local Community Schools, stock and organize food pantries and beautify outdoor spaces.

Day of Caring’s presenting sponsor is Crayola with additional support from Exclusive Lunch Sponsor PPL Corp.; Silver Sponsor Comcast; Bronze Sponsors AAA East Central, Highmark Blue Shield, Just Born Quality Confections, Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health, Hank and Joanne Barnette and Moravian University and Quandel; and in-kind contributors ASR Media, Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Uline and Working Dog Press.

TOUR SCHEDULE:
Weather permitting, interviews are available at all locations. All times and locations are tentative. Photos and videos available upon request.

8:15 – 9:15 a.m. Crayola
Location: Slate Belt Senior Center
Address: 707 American Bangor Road, Bangor
Project Description: Spending the morning with older adults at Slate Belt Senior Center

9:55 – 10:20 a.m. Victaulic
Location: Paxinosa Elementary School
Address: 1221 Northampton Street, Easton
Project Description: Cleaning Paxinosa’s outdoor classroom

10:50 – 11:20 a.m. Alvin H. Butz and Senator Coleman’s Office
Location: River Crossing YMCA
Address: 425 S 15th Street, Allentown
Project Description: Preparing the warming shelter for the upcoming fall/winter season.

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PPL
Location: Sixth Street Shelter
Address: 219 N 6th Street, Allentown
Project Description: Cleaning and beautifying Sixth Street Shelter

12:40 – 1:15 p.m. Air Products, City Center Group, Women United
Location: Central Elementary STREAM Academy
Address: 829 W Turner Street, Allentown
Project Description: Cleaning the school grounds, organizing donation closets, cleaning windows and helping in classrooms.

1:45 – 2:30 p.m. Just Born
Location: The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties
Address: 2289 Avenue A, Bethlehem
Project Description: Painting the resource room, creating goody bags and gardening.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Please visit www.unitedwayglv.org.

News

Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Honoring Community School Coordinators

National Coordinators Appreciation Week 2025

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is happy to celebrate Community School Coordinators and their impact during National Coordinators Appreciation Week from September 14-20, 2025.  

This year marks 20 years of Community Schools in the community, and United Way recognizes the work they do to ensure all our children learn and thrive.  

WHY COORDINATORS MATTER

United Way Community Schools remove barriers to education, so students, families and communities can thrive. Each school is staffed by a full-time Community School Coordinator (CSC) who addresses basic needs, promotes family engagement, builds partnerships and coordinates services including: 

  • Basic needs such as food, clothing, hygiene products, school supplies and housing
  • After-school programming 
  • On-site physical, mental and behavioral health services 
  • Field trips to support school goals, curriculum and child development 

“Our Community Schools, with some of the most challenges, are showing the most growth, outpacing other schools statewide supported by the systems CSCs build alongside our educators, families and community partners,” shared Khushboo Jain, Director of the United Way’s Community School Network.

We thank our Community School Coordinators:

Emily Beck, Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary School
Deja Wilson, Central Elementary School
Olga Jaeger, Francis D. Raub Middle School
Efuru/Phebe Eugene, Harrison-Morton Middle School
Kara Williams, Mosser Elementary School
Yasainee Veramendi Burton, Roosevelt Elementary School
Franshesca Baez, Sheridan Elementary School
Natalie Miller, South Mountain Middle School

Michelle Resto-Carlson, Trexler Middle School
Jeffrey Espinola, Washington Elementary School
Anais Martinez, Broughal Middle School
Rosa Carides-Hof, Donegan Elementary School
Jonathan Vargas, Fountain Hill Elementary School
Gena Holmes, Lincoln Elementary School

Luis Vasquez, Marvine Elementary School
Eliza Sukanick, Northeast Middle School
Martha Larkin, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
Amanda Madea, William Penn Elementary School
Stacee Banko, Ada B. Cheston Elementary School
Jeanine Stanilious, Paxinosa Elementary School
Emma Hope, Panther Valley Elementary School
Rebeccah Glovas, Bangor Area High School

Their daily work removes barriers, strengthens connections and makes it possible for every child to arrive ready to learn. Together, they shape schools into communities where students and families feel supported, valued and prepared to succeed.

SEE THE IMPACT

GRAPHIC 19,994 students served in community schools
  • 3,956 families improved food security 
  • 2,627 families improved access to health care 

Over the past year, Community Schools reported: 

  • Improved academic growth 
  • More students’ and families’ basic needs met 
  • Increased student and family engagement 
  • Improved attendance and behavior 
  • Improved school culture 

United Way Community Schools are a collaboration powered by Capital Blue Cross as the Network Partner, alongside lead partners United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, St. Luke’s University Health Network, Lehigh University, Moravian University and Northampton Community College.

Learn more about the impact of United Way Community Schools here.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Strengthens Leadership with Five New Members on Board of Directors

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley welcomes Maggie Reilly, Connor Topper, Jason Vanderburg, Joseph Welsh and Robin Zmoda to the organization’s Board.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley welcomes Maggie Reilly of City Center Group, Connor Topper of Dunne Manning, Inc., Jason Vanderburg of Greater Shiloh Church, Joseph E. Welsh of the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute and Robin Zmoda of Borough of Pen Argyl to the organization’s Board of Directors.

“Our Board plays a critical role in shaping the future of United Way and ensuring we remain responsive to the evolving needs of our community. With the addition of these new members, we’re strengthening our leadership, deepening our expertise and continuing to build a strong foundation for long-term impact and sustainable growth,” said United Way Board Chair Joe Savage, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Victaulic.

Maggie Reilly serves as Director of Asset Management at City Center Group, a real estate development company focused on residential and commercial properties in the Lehigh Valley. She is responsible for underwriting new development projects, capital planning and overseeing the financial performance of stabilized properties. Prior to joining City Center in 2022, Reilly spent five years in the U.S. Private Debt Group (now Private Credit) at Oaktree Capital, ultimately serving as Vice President. In that role, she underwrote and executed new investment opportunities and monitored existing portfolio investments. She began her career as an analyst in the Leveraged Finance Group at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Reilly is a graduate of Georgetown University with degrees in finance and accounting and an alumna of Moravian Academy.

Connor Topper is Vice President at Dunne Manning, Inc., a single-family office with locations in Allentown and Rosemont, Pa. He focuses on alternative investments including private equity, private credit, venture capital and real estate. His responsibilities include performing manager due diligence for new commitments and overseeing existing fund relationships across growth, venture and buyout strategies. Topper also serves as Vice President of Friends of Nova, the official Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) collective for Villanova University Athletics, and is Co-Chair of the Villanova University Young Alumni Advisory Council. He holds a B.S. in accountancy from Villanova University and an MBA from Fordham University.

Jason Vanderburg serves as Associate Pastor and Director of Ministries at the Historic Greater Shiloh Church, where he leads outreach efforts including a seasonal emergency shelter, food pantries, mobile showers and seasonal food and gift giveaways. He is President of Shiloh Manor Inc., a 58-unit independent senior living community in Easton, and Treasurer of the Northampton County Housing Authority and its Housing Development Corporation. Vanderburg has contributed to several community initiatives, including Easton Area School District’s diversity committee and comprehensive planning committee. He holds an undergraduate degree from Moravian University, a master’s degree from the University of Valley Forge and is a licensed funeral director and owner of Vanderburg Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service Inc.

Joseph Welsh is a Founder and served for five years as Executive Director of the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute where he leads research and advocacy to advance a more equitable justice system. A longtime civil rights attorney, Welsh previously spent 15 years litigating police misconduct and prison condition cases. His career also includes service as Assistant Business Administrator for the City of Easton, managing political and social justice campaigns across several states and consulting with state and local governments. An international election observer, he has participated in missions to Ukraine and Uzbekistan. Welsh has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Pennsylvania ACLU and Easton Hunger Coalition. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Respect Graduate School of Islamic Studies in Bethlehem, where he was Interim President in 2020. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in government from Lehigh University and a Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law.

Robin Zmoda serves as Borough Manager and Treasurer for the Borough of Pen Argyl, Pa., overseeing the daily operations of the Borough and its staff to ensure the effective delivery of municipal services and successful execution of community initiatives. Robin is also an active regional leader. She serves as Chair of the Slate Belt Regional Multi-Municipal Comprehensive Plan and contributes her expertise to the Slate Belt Rising Steering Committee as well as its Vibrant Economic Development and Sustainability Committees. She also plays roles in the Slate Belt Economic Development Committee, Slate Belt Angels and her church vestry. Under her leadership, the Borough has secured more than $14 million in grant funding to support major infrastructure upgrades, a new fire station, wastewater treatment plant renovations and park enhancements.

“As we deepen our impact across education, healthy aging and community stability, we’re grateful to welcome leaders who bring vision, lived experience and a deep understanding of what our neighbors need to thrive,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “I’m excited to work alongside this engaged and forward-thinking group as we develop strategies that create lasting change across the Greater Lehigh Valley.”

With total revenue exceeding $30 million, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley raises funds and invests in lasting solutions in the areas of education, healthy aging and community stability.

Reilly, Topper, Vanderburg, Welsh and Zmoda will serve three-year terms through June 2028.

News

15 Years of Impact: Why the Pessinas Choose to Give Back

Michele and Michael Pessina

Michael and Michele Pessina, longtime Allentown residents, have been United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Tocqueville Society members for over 15 years. Their journey with United Way began with payroll deductions during their careers—Michael at Lutron Electronics, where he dedicated over 40 years, and Michele as a teacher in the Allentown and Parkland School Districts. Their belief in keeping their contributions local and impactful inspired their continued support even into retirement.

“We started giving because it was easy, and we knew our money stayed right here in the Lehigh Valley, supporting the community we love,” shared the Pessinas. “Even now, it’s still the best way to give back and make a difference.”

Michael and Michele are particularly passionate about education and children, areas that they view as fundamental to building a stronger community. Their personal connection to this cause runs deep, especially in honor of their late daughter, Angela, a Spanish teacher in Pen Argyl, for whom they have established a foundation. They also cherish time with their other daughter, Alison, her husband, Matthew and their two young grandchildren.

In addition to the Tocqueville Society, the Pessinas actively support local nonprofits, including Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital, where Michael serves on the board. Their dedication to fostering collective impact and trust in United Way’s stewardship ensures their contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of local families.

“We’re proud to be part of United Way’s mission, which brings bold goals and transformative work to the community,” they added. “It’s an investment in our neighbors, our schools and a brighter future for everyone.”

United Way Tocqueville Society is an alliance of over 400 successful business and philanthropic leaders and their families who share a strong commitment and passion for investing in our local community, developing long-lasting impact and tackling our region’s most pressing challenges.

News

The Kindness Project: Shining a Light for Kids and Teens in Foster Care

The Kindness Project

New United Way partner, The Kindness Project, is helping ensure children and teens in foster care feel safe, seen and supported.

This grassroots nonprofit, based in the Lehigh Valley, is on a mission to create a brighter future for youth in foster care by offering essential resources and meaningful enrichment opportunities.

From the moment a child enters the foster care system, The Kindness Project ensures they are met with dignity and compassion. Through its free boutique, The Kindness Exchange, youth from across eastern PA can shop for brand-new clothing, hygiene products, school supplies, baby equipment, birthday gifts and more — selecting what they love in a welcoming, trauma-informed space.

The organization is also launching a new Mobile Boutique, The Kindness Express, in partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network Reilly Children’s Hospital to reach families in underserved communities who can’t access the physical boutique.

Beyond essentials, The Kindness Project nurtures the whole child through its Kindness Connections Program, partnering with dozens of local organizations to host seasonal experiences, sports and arts classes and special events that create joyful memories and opportunities for growth.

In 2024 alone, The Kindness Project served more than 1,200 local youth. As the number of children in foster care continues to rise — with over 14,000 youth in the PA system — this work remains more vital than ever.

News

United Way and YMCA Announce Plan to Open Allentown Temporary Shelter for Residents of Homeless Encampment

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and River Crossing YMCA have announced a joint plan to open the warming station at the Y’s Allentown Branch by September 30 to offer immediate shelter for the residents of the Jordan Creek homeless encampment. With the pending evacuation of the camp due to cited safety concerns, United Way and the YMCA worked quickly to offer a solution in partnership with the City of Allentown, Lehigh County, Lehigh Valley Community Foundation and local citizens.

“We are pleased to provide a short-term solution for shelter by opening the Warming Station nearly two months ahead of schedule,” stated River Crossing YMCA President and Chief Executive Officer Zane Moore. “We appreciate our collaboration with the United Way and other local partners who are critical to our ability to mobilize the resources needed to run and staff the Warming Station, and provide a safe, caring space for our unhoused community.”

The evacuation is scheduled to take effect on August 25. The warming station which typically operates from mid-November to mid-April provides daily shelter, food and a safe place for those experiencing homelessness. Under the announced plan, the station would open nearly two months ahead of schedule.

“We’re grateful for the funding partners who quickly came together to provide an immediate option for people who will need to relocate. However, addressing this issue will require additional mid- and long-term solutions, and we’re committed to working with the residents, the City, County and the nonprofit service providers to ensure that all residents will have access to ongoing safe, stable and appropriate housing,” said United Way President and Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko.

River Crossing YMCA has operated the warming station at the Allentown YMCA located on South 15th Street since 2018. In addition to offering daily beds, meals, bathrooms and showers, staff coordinates case management and health care services during the winter season.

“Our City has a commitment to the health and safety of all residents, and we are grateful to our community partners for their support of that mission,” said Mayor Matt Tuerk. “River Crossing YMCA and United Way have stepped up to provide immediate help while we continue our efforts to provide stable and secure housing, and I thank them for their leadership.”

“We’re proud to be part of a coalition with the City, County, United Way and YMCA to work toward a solution to the homelessness issues that our community is facing,” added Lehigh County Executive Philips Armstrong.

“The Community Foundation recognizes the importance of addressing urgent needs in our community while we collectively work toward long-term solutions,” said Erika Riddle Petrozelli, CPA, CAP®, President and CEO of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation. “We are grateful for the leadership of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the YMCA in providing a safe and compassionate temporary option for our neighbors facing homelessness. Our support of this collaboration reflects our community’s shared commitment to dignity, safety, and care for all residents of the Lehigh Valley.”

Donations to support the housing efforts can be made online at this secure website or via mail (checks payable to United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109 – attention “Emergency Services Fund”). Additionally, anyone interested in making a donation can text “ALLENTOWN” to 40403.

A view into the Warming Station is available here. B-roll footage may be freely used.  

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Launches Slate Belt Angels Fund to Honor Legacy and Expand Impact

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley proudly announces the creation of the Slate Belt Angels Fund at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, a permanent endowment honoring the mission of the Episcopal Apartments of the Slate Belt. For decades, the Episcopal Apartments provided safe, stable housing and supportive services for older adults in the Slate Belt region. This new fund ensures that legacy lives on, expanding access to essential programs that improve health, housing and quality of life for rural communities.

“This fund is a remarkable act of trust and partnership, and we are honored to steward it,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Together with the Slate Belt Angels, we are building on a long legacy of service to create lasting, measurable change in the lives of older adults in the region.”

The Slate Belt Angels embodies the true spirit of community building. With this multi-million-dollar investment, the newly established fund ensures that the founders’ vision of supporting safe, stable housing and services for older adults continues to thrive in perpetuity. The fund is designed to strengthen and expand rural impact in the Slate Belt, with a lasting focus on housing, health and education.

“This fund is more than a financial investment — it’s a promise to the Slate Belt community that older adults will have access to the housing, healthcare and support they deserve for generations to come,” stated Robin Zmoda, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Board of Directors Member and Borough Manager and Treasurer for the Borough of Pen Argyl, Pa.

Interest funds from the endowed gift will be invested in programs that support older adults living in the Pen Argyl and Bangor Area School District catchment area to ensure the original mission continues to guide the work ahead.

Short-term goals include funding local programs that serve older adults to carry on the Episcopal Apartments’ legacy. Long-term, the fund will grow through leveraged dollars and new partnerships, serving as a catalyst for rural investment in the Slate Belt for generations.

“We are looking forward to benefiting Seniors in the Slate Belt on a long-term basis with the assistance of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley,” stated Dave Ceraul, Slate Belt Angels.

Community outreach events are scheduled to take place throughout summer and fall 2025 to raise awareness and gather local input on what is needed in the region to ensure that older adults are thriving. Residents can attend the next event in Weona Park in Pen Argyl on August 3 from 6-8 p.m. to help shape this important investment.

To learn more about the Slate Belt Angels Fund or attend an upcoming event, contact Carmen Bell at [email protected] or 610-807-5717.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Lehigh Valley Justice Institute Announce Merger

This new partnership advances research and public policy related to criminal justice issues.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to announce a formal merger with the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute (LVJI), a nonpartisan research, policy and advocacy organization working to build a more equitable and effective criminal justice system, while addressing the social determinants of criminal justice.

Founded in 2020 to shine a light on systemic gaps and opportunities, Lehigh Valley Justice Institute uses research and data to drive local change across the Lehigh Valley’s criminal justice processes. Their mission is to serve as a flashlight, illuminating where policy and programmatic solutions can positively impact outcomes.

“Today’s merger with United Way, one of the largest nonprofits of the region, is a testament to the trusted and impactful work which LVJI has performed. Marrying LVJI’s data analysis skills with the ability of United Way to collect primary source data through their many initiatives in the region, will result in the delivery of the highest quality and most impactful approaches to resolving inequities in our Lehigh Valley,” remarked Lehigh Valley Justice Institute Executive Director Joe Welsh, who will continue to provide expertise and guidance throughout the merger and serve on the United Way Board of Directors.

Support for this merger is provided by Lehigh Valley Justice Institute board members Richard Master of MCS Industries and Charlie Marcon of Duggan & Marcon and their families. Their founding support and continued generosity have made this transition possible, ensuring that the Institute’s impact will continue for years to come.

“We’re so grateful to the Masters and the Marcons for their sustained commitment to the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute at United Way. Their generous support provides the resources so that the important research and advocacy work will continue to create a positive impact on the criminal justice system for many, many years into the future. We are honored and humbled by their trust to continue to steward and grow this important work,” said United Way President and Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko.

This partnership ensures long-term sustainability, enhanced research capacity and reduced administrative costs, ensuring the work not only continues but expands. It also deepens United Way’s commitment to data-driven strategies and community-informed policy that support its core focus areas of education, housing, mental health and healthy aging.

“The work of the Justice Institute clearly points to the connection between criminal justice and social issues, such as education, mental health and housing insecurity. Through this merger, we will provide policy proposals which can be implemented at the local level to address many of the most vexing social justice issues. That is the power of this strategic partnership,” added Richard Master.

Combining rigorous data research with signature geospatial analysis skills, LVJI’s public reports have led to many tangible results including:

  • $200,000 in funding from Lehigh County for relief for families with children facing evictions
  • $250,000 in increased funding for Community Intervention Specialists from Lehigh County,
  • $1,000,000 in funding to support a new youth center in Allentown
  • New Allentown Police Department plans for a public dashboard on their website
  • Decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana in Easton

Through this merger, United Way welcomes three new employees, including Associate Vice President Victoria Wrigley, who will continue to build upon the Justice Institute’s solid base of accomplishment.

LVJI’s research work also provides meaningful opportunities for partnerships with several local academic institutions, including Northampton Community College, Moravian University, and the Marcon Institute at Lehigh University.

“In sum, this merger will enhance the efforts of both organizations and heighten the collective impact which we will have on the path of ensuring safe, healthy and equitable communities,” said Charlie Marcon.

With shared values and a commitment to collaboration, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute are positioned to build a community where every person belongs and every person thrives.