News

More Than 1,700 Volunteers Shine Bright for United Way During Record-Breaking Day of Caring

September 15, 2026

More than 1,700 energetic volunteers are UNITING to complete community service projects at 72 area nonprofits during the 33rd United Way Day of Caring, presented by Crayola and coordinated by Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley. 

“Day of Caring shows what is possible when our community chooses to shine bright together,” shared Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “To see so many people from across the Valley come together with 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 each act of service adds to something greater: a brighter, more connected Greater Lehigh Valley where everyone belongs and everyone can thrive.” 

United Way kicks off its annual campaign with Day of Caring, the most impactful volunteer engagement event in the region. This year’s event spans two days with 743 volunteers activated on Tuesday, September 15th and another 1,004 scheduled for Thursday, September 17th. 

“We’ve both seen firsthand how much a caring community can change someone’s life. Now imagine what more than 1,700 volunteers can do, 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 2026 United Way Campaign Chairs Rick and Amy Bucher. 

In total, organizations contributed more than 8,806 hours of service valued at $318,249.  

Day of Caring projects included: 

  • Painting the community room at the Hispanic Center of the Lehigh Valley with Just Born Quality Confections 
  • Brightening the hallways of Paxinosa Elementary School with Crayola 
  • Decorating Cheston Elementary School with Victaulic 
  • Beautifying the grounds of South Mountain Middle School with HNL Lab Medicine 
  • Clean up at Calypso Elementary School with B. Braun Medical, Inc 
  • Planting trees at Wildlands Conservancy with PPL Corp. 
  • Cleaning stalls and the grounds of Horses Healing Heroes with Olympus Corporation of the Americas 
  • Stocking the shelves of Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore with Air Products 
  • Participating in a community project at Roosevelt Elementary School with Capital Blue Cross 

“We see every day how meaningful connections between people and nonprofits can strengthen our entire community,” said Karen Smith, CEO, Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley. “United Way Day of Caring brings that mission to life on a remarkable scale, matching nonprofits with the support they need and giving companies a powerful opportunity to unite their teams around service. With even more volunteers stepping forward this year over two days, our partnership with United Way continues to extend the reach of local nonprofits, deepen workplace engagement and create lasting benefits for the Greater Lehigh Valley we all call home.” 

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

  • Gold Sponsor Olympus Corporation of the Americas; 
  • Exclusive Lunch Sponsor PPL Corp.; 
  • In-Kind Contributors B. Braun Medical Inc, Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Turnstone Creative, Wawa and Working Dog Press. 
  • Bronze Sponsors AAA East Central, Highmark Blue Shield, Just Born Quality Confections and Quandel Construction Group, LLC; and  

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Thirty Years of Impact: The Alliance Playground Program at Central Elementary STREAM Academy Keeps Allentown Kids Connected

September 03, 2026
  • Summer program at Central Elementary School
  • Ramper Day Rehearsal at Central Elementary School
  • Ramper Day Rehearsal at Central Elementary School
  • Ramper Day Rehearsal at Central Elementary School
  • Ramper Day Rehearsal Central 2026

Summer break can set students back, especially those without access to strong learning programs. Students from low-income households can lose two to three months of literacy skills each summer, and without support, that gap can grow to two to three grade levels by the end of fifth grade. That’s why United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley invests in learning opportunities that keep kids reading, growing and engaged during the summer.

This summer, United Way expanded that work by launching the Summer Volunteer Experience. Through the program, volunteers help expand access to nutritious meals, meaningful learning experiences and family resources. They serve meals, spark learning adventures and capture impact stories that show how summer can be healthier, more enriching and more connected for kids and families.

Thirty years ago, the Alliance Summer Recreation Program got its start out of Alliance Hall, home to the local health bureau. What began as a small offering has grown steadily ever since. As the program expanded, the organizers requested a home at a school site, with Central Elementary STREAM Academy in the Allentown School District becoming the program’s first United Way Community School partner. That long-running tradition now continues through Central’s summer program, where students have a steady place to learn, eat, play and build friendships while school is out.

Today, the program serves around 100 students a day all summer long, offering kids meals, arts and crafts, games and dance instruction, including traditional maypole and flag dances. Funds raised throughout the summer also support afternoon swim time for participants. Held in partnership with Allentown Parks and Recreation, it all builds toward Romper Day, officially known as Playground Celebration Night, in August, when kids from playgrounds across Allentown come together to perform the dances they’ve spent the summer learning.

During a dress rehearsal at the end of July, the energy said it all. As one summer associate, Maddy, put it: “The summer program is all around, giving them a safe social place to be kids.” That sense of connection is at the heart of the program, a chance for kids to unplug phones and screens and be present with each other.

Marvin, one of the participants, admitted he was nervous at first about making friends, but said he’s made plenty since joining. He shared that dancing has become his favorite part of the summer. Sixteen-year-old volunteer Jannixy said her favorite part is watching the kids grow throughout the program. It’s a reminder of what thirty years of Romper Day has always been about: giving Allentown’s kids a summer full of connection, confidence and fun.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Names Alison Pickel Vice President, Resource Development

September 01, 2026
Alison Pickel, Vice President of Resource Development for United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley has selected Alison Pickel to help lead the organization’s fundraising and development efforts as Vice President, Resource Development. A longtime Lehigh Valley relationship-builder with extensive experience in member engagement, business development, operations and community partnerships, Pickel joins United Way after serving in senior roles with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.

“Alison has built her career by bringing people together around shared goals that strengthen our region,” remarked Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Her experience cultivating relationships with businesses, nonprofits, civic leaders and community organizations will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow both revenue and impact across the Greater Lehigh Valley.”

In the role, Pickel will report to Chief Philanthropy Officer Jill Wheeler and support United Way’s fundraising and resource development strategies, including donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, workplace campaigns, individual giving and community engagement. She will work closely with donors, volunteers and partners to grow the resources needed to support education, health and human services programming across Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties.

“I am honored to join United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and contribute to a mission that has such meaningful impact across our region,” said Pickel. “Throughout my career, I have seen what is possible when businesses, nonprofits and community leaders work together. I look forward to partnering with donors, volunteers and colleagues to expand opportunities and help more people thrive.”

Pickel most recently served with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, where she supported entrepreneurs, businesses, nonprofits, charities and community organizations throughout the region. In her work with the Chamber, she helped plan and execute networking and community events, developed strategic visibility opportunities for members and launched the Chamber’s Veterans and Military Council.

As a regional connector, Pickel is known for helping organizations identify opportunities for collaboration, visibility and growth while creating experiences that bring people together around shared community goals. She earned a degree in communications from Temple University.

News

Empowered 2gether: Women Creating Change Across the Lehigh Valley

August 27, 2026
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
  • Women United and Good Shepherd event at UWGLV office
View the Photo Gallery

Nearly 100 women gathered for Empower 2gether, an evening hosted by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Women United and Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Women’s Giving Circle. The event brought together members and guests who share a commitment to giving back, making connections and creating meaningful change for women, children and families across the Lehigh Valley.

For 108 years, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Good Shepherd Rehabilitation have each played a vital role in strengthening our community and creating greater opportunity for the people they serve. That shared history was reflected throughout the evening, as women came together to celebrate the impact of giving, partnership and service.

“Two organizations were founded in the 1910s because a group of people, a lot like us, looked around and said I can be a part of the solution,” said Laura McHugh, Chief Engagement Officer for United Way.

Good Shepherd Women’s Giving Circle celebrated a record-breaking year, with 81 members raising $90,500 to support three projects that directly benefit patients and residents. The funding supported a long-term care accessibility lab, the MS Wellness Program and assistance for patients facing financial barriers.

“Very much like Women United, we are a strong powerhouse group of women. This is special to be a part of, and we are very, very thankful to continue this partnership,” shared Kim Stolarik, Administrative Director, Development at Good Shepherd.

The impact of Women United’s giving was also on display through New Bethany, one of Women United’s Signature Projects. Veronne Demesyeux, Associate Executive Director of New Bethany, shared how Women United funding has helped provide activities and experiences for families in New Bethany’s family shelter, including trips to the pool, a water park and an annual back-to-school carnival.

“Any and everything that you all do to support us is extremely valuable and helps go a very, very long way,” Demesyeux said.

Attendees also supported New Bethany directly by donating personal hygiene items for women and families in its transitional housing program.

Special thanks to our event sponsors: CBRE, First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union, Patriot Equities, St. Luke’s University Health Network and Karen Smith.

And another special thank you to everyone who attended and supported New Bethany through your generous personal hygiene item donations.

Ready to make a difference for our women, children and families in our community?

Become a Women United member today and join leading female philanthropists creating lasting change and transforming lives in our region. Contact Maddi Falcone at [email protected].

Want to join a dynamic group of women who are making a direct impact on patients’ lives? Learn more about the Women’s Giving Circle and how every dollar raised helps create greater independence and opportunity for Good Shepherd patients. Contact Dianne Spengler at [email protected].

Photos by Marco Calderon Photography

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Announces Rick and Amy Bucher as 2026 Campaign Chairs, Launching the “Shine Bright for Education” Initiative

August 26, 2026
Rich and Amy Bucher, 2026 Campaign Chairs

As the 2026-27 school year begins, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to announce Rick and Amy Bucher as 2026 Campaign Chairs. As longtime champions of the Greater Lehigh Valley, the Buchers bring business leadership, education experience, volunteer service, and a deeply personal purpose to this year’s campaign.

“Amy and I are honored to serve as Campaign Chairs alongside the volunteers, donors and partners who make this region such a strong and caring place to live and work,” said Rick Bucher, who is also the President and Chief Executive Officer for Victaulic. “We’ve seen how this community shines brightest when neighbors show up for one another, helping families find hope, stability and opportunity when they need it most. We are inspired to help more of our neighbors access that support and build a stronger future.”

As part of their role, Rick and Amy are launching a Shine Bright for Education Challenge. By contributing to United Way’s Education Fund, donors help students strengthen reading and math skills, improve attendance and connect with caring adults who help them see what is possible. That’s why Rick and Amy are personally providing a dollar-for-dollar matching gift for donations to United Way’s Education Fund throughout the campaign.

“Every gift to United Way helps students access the support they need to learn, grow and thrive,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “When donors invest in education, they help surround children and families with the resources, relationships and opportunities that can change a student’s path.”

That belief in helping children, changing a student’s path, and supporting families also guides the Buchers’ shared commitment toward education within the United Way. For Amy, that commitment began in the classroom, where she taught English and continues those efforts today through her volunteer work. She’s been a guest educator and reader during Read Across America, contributed her time to the Hispanic Center of the Lehigh Valley and has been a dedicated donor and supporter of Historic Bethlehem. She also conceived the signature gift of this year’s campaign, the Bethlehem Star, as a symbol of hope and shared purpose of the Lehigh Valley’s enduring spirit.

Together, Rick and Amy advocate for children facing cancer, a cause rooted in the loss of their daughter, Arden, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma at the age of two. Their experience deepened their commitment to helping families access the support, stability and opportunity needed to move from crisis to hope. Rick and Amy are active advocates and fundraisers for childhood cancer research through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, where Amy has served on the board for two terms and Rick serves as Chair Elect.

As the President and Chief Executive Officer of Victaulic, headquartered in Easton, Rick leads the global company with a focus on innovation. Under his leadership, Victaulic’s patent portfolio has grown substantially with the issuance of over 5,000 patents while the company’s research and development organization has doubled in size. His commitment to innovation and partnership extends through his service as President of the Lehigh Valley Partnership and as a Board Member of Lehigh Valley Public Media. He has been recognized among the Lehigh Valley’s Power 100, Power 300 leaders and received the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the Minsi Trails Council. Rick is also a Board of Trustees member and Chair of the Executive Committee for the Manufacturers Alliance. He also serves on the FM Approvals Advisory Council, the University of Maryland’s Board of Visitors for the Department of Fire Protection Engineering, and the Tugboat Institute.

The Buchers encourage everyone in the Greater Lehigh Valley to get involved and join them as they kick off the campaign next month with United Way Day of Caring on September 15 and 17. As the region’s largest single-day volunteer effort, Day of Caring brings thousands of volunteers together with local nonprofits to complete hands-on service projects across Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties. Community members and workplaces are invited to get involved by volunteering for Day of Caring, hosting a workplace campaign or making a gift at www.UnitedWayGLV.org.

United Way’s 2026 annual campaign runs though March 31, 2027.

News

Planning for Long-Term Impact: Why Andy Ludwig and Cheryl Borchers Support United Way

August 25, 2026
member spotlight - Andy Ludwig and Cheryl Borchers

Creating lasting change takes long-term investment, thoughtful planning and a commitment to strengthening the community for future generations. For Andy Ludwig and Cheryl Borchers, that philosophy guides both their philanthropy and their support of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Residents of Emmaus, Andy and Cheryl joined Tocqueville Society in 2017 because they value United Way’s strategic, community-focused approach to creating both immediate and long-term impact.

United Way Tocqueville Society recognizes philanthropic leaders whose generosity and leadership help strengthen education, healthy aging and community stability throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley. Today, over 420 deeply committed Tocqueville Society families have helped fuel more than $23 million in contributions over the last year.

Andy and Cheryl’s support reflects a shared belief in thoughtful philanthropy and planning ahead to help ensure future generations have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

“We support United Way for its disciplined, community-focused approach to addressing both urgent needs and long-term stability,” Andy shared. “Its emphasis on measurable outcomes and efficient deployment of resources aligns with how we evaluate where our time and philanthropic capital can have the greatest impact.”

In addition to their Tocqueville support, Andy volunteers on United Way’s Impact Council, helping advance solutions that strengthen lives across the community.

We’re grateful for Andy and Cheryl’s continued commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.

News

Tails of Valor: A Mission Rooted in Resilience

August 11, 2026

United Way’s nonprofit partners stand UNITED, working to address our community’s greatest challenges and improve opportunities for those who have served. Together, we are helping veterans and first responders heal from the invisible wounds of service and reconnect with family, community and self.

That’s why partnerships with organizations like Tails of Valor® are so important. What began twelve years ago as a response to a need that couldn’t be ignored has grown into a program built around a powerful pathway: the human-canine bond. What starts with a puppy becomes something far greater through structure, responsibility and connection. These service canines (each named in honor of a soldier who served our country) help restore confidence, independence and a renewed sense of purpose in the lives of the veterans and first responders they serve.

Tails of Valor®’s mission has stayed the same from day one: treat the whole person, not just the diagnosis. The program focuses on helping individuals transform lived experience into resilience and renewed purpose, made possible by a community of supporters who believe meaningful impact is personal, not transactional.

Founded twelve years ago and serving veterans and first responders across the Lehigh Valley, Tails of Valor® continues to prove that Restoration Is Possible. For business leaders and community partners here in the Lehigh Valley, supporting Tails of Valor® is more than contributing to a nonprofit; it’s standing beside those who once stood for all of us. You can learn more about Tails of Valor® by visiting tailsofvalor.org.

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United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Strengthens Board of Directors with Three New Members

July 24, 2026
United Way welcomes Laudy Allan, Harrison Bailey III, Ed.D., and Angela Connell to its Board of Directors, bringing leadership experience from business, education and health care to help advance the organization's mission.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley today welcomed Laudy Allan of Crayola, Harrison Bailey III, Ed.D., of Wilson Area School District and Angela Connell of HNL Lab Medicine to its Board of Directors. Together, they bring years of leadership experience from business, education and health care that will help guide the organization’s work to improve lives across the Greater Lehigh Valley.

“As our community continues to grow and change, it’s important that our Board reflects the breadth of experience needed to help shape what’s next,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Laudy, Harrison and Angela bring thoughtful leadership and new perspectives that will help us strengthen partnerships, respond to emerging needs and create opportunities for more people to thrive.”

Laudy Allan serves as Senior Vice President of Global Operations at Crayola, where she oversees U.S. manufacturing, global logistics, transportation, customer service, engineering and facilities. She also serves as the business sponsor for the company’s global SAP ERP implementation. During her 19 years at Crayola, Allan has held a variety of leadership roles across Global Operations and Information Technology, leading complex business transformation initiatives, including enterprise-wide SAP ERP implementations. Prior to joining Crayola, she held leadership positions in information technology and project management at Nabisco/Kraft Foods and Sony. Allan earned a bachelor’s degree in information systems from Penn State University and is pursuing an MBA at Lehigh University. She holds Project Management Professional (PMP) and Agile Project Management certifications and is a Six Sigma Green Belt. She currently serves on the boards of the Thomas Makhoul Scholarship Fund and the Hanover Elementary School PTA and previously served on the boards of the Allentown School District Foundation and YWCA.

Harrison Bailey III, Ed.D. serves as Superintendent of Schools for Wilson Area School District. A lifelong educator with more than 30 years of experience, Bailey honorably served as a special education teacher and administrator in the Parkland and Bethlehem Area communities. He also served as principal of Liberty High School, where he led the school’s transformation into a trauma-informed campus and helped establish one of Pennsylvania’s few school-based wellness centers. In 2021, he was named Principal of the Year for Pennsylvania. He is also co-founder of the Multicultural Student Leadership Conference, founder of HopeDealersGlobal LLC and a frequent speaker on education, student wellness and leadership. In addition to his work in education, Bailey is a decorated two-sport professional athlete and an advocate for public education at the state and national levels. Bailey earned degrees from Lafayette College and Lehigh University before completing his doctorate in educational leadership at East Stroudsburg University.

Angela Connell serves as Chief Administrative Officer at HNL Lab Medicine, where she oversees the Human Resources, Organizational Development and Compliance departments. She partners with the executive leadership team to strengthen organizational culture, elevate leadership capability and support the organization’s continued growth. Before joining HNL Lab Medicine, Connell was the Founder and Principal Consultant of Advantage HR Solutions, where she spent more than a decade advising organizations across healthcare and manufacturing helping executives navigate change, optimize costs and strengthen their talent ecosystems. Earlier in her career, she held human resources leadership roles at The Express-Times and led strategic projects for organizations including Adept Group and Celestica. Connell holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Human Resource Management from Moravian University. She also serves on the boards of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation and Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley.

With total revenue exceeding $34 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.

Allan, Bailey and Connell will serve three-year terms through June 2029.

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PPL Recognized as United Way Leading Corporate Partner for Long-Standing Commitment and Positive Impact Through Giving 

July 23, 2026

In recognition of decades of partnership, PPL Corporation has been named a President’s Circle member in United Way Worldwide’s Leading Corporate Partner (LCP) program. President’s Circle members raise more than $5 million annually, recognizing the network’s most generous corporate partners. PPL earned the distinction following its record-breaking annual campaign, in which PPL employees and retirees, together with the PPL Foundation, pledged $10 million to United Ways and their partners serving communities across PPL’s service areas in Kentucky, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. 

United Way of Greater Lehigh Valley, the local United Way serving PPL’s headquarters community, nominated PPL for the LCP program.   

“Welcoming PPL into United Way Worldwide’s Leading Corporate Partner program is a milestone and a reflection of the extraordinary partnership we have built,” said Caitlin Wagner, Senior Director, Global Corporate Partnership and Development, United Way Worldwide. “The recognition reflects decades of collaboration, shared purpose, and meaningful investment in creating stronger, more resilient communities—both in Greater Lehigh Valley where PPL is based—and across the country.” 

“PPL exemplifies community leadership in every way. When our communities are in crisis or our residents need support, we know that we can count on the team at PPL. We are so grateful for their years of partnership and trust, and we will continue to create real impact in the communities we serve together,” added Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. 

Commitment to Giving 
For decades, United Way has been PPL’s only annual solicitation for funds from its employees and retirees, and in 2025 alone, engaged more than 2,300 donors.  The PPL Foundation matches PPL employees and retirees’ donations dollar for dollar. Since 2009, PPL has raised more than $66 million to support the United Way’s mission to improve lives and strengthen communities. 

“At the PPL Foundation, we believe strong communities are built through collaboration and shared investment,” said Lissette Santana, President of the PPL Foundation. “Our partnership with United Way helps connect our employees’ generosity with trusted local organizations that are working every day to address critical needs and improve quality of life across the regions we serve.” 

Exceptional Partnership 

PPL’s exceptional partnership extends beyond financial contributions. Each year, more than 1,000 employees volunteer during United Way’s Day of Caring. In its headquarters community in Pennsylvania, PPL serves as the leading United Way Community Schools partner at Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary School in the Allentown School District, helping bring together educators, community organizations and volunteers to connect students and families with resources that support learning and well-being. Through their ongoing involvement, PPL employees participate in activities such as mentoring, classroom support and other efforts that strengthen the school community. Additionally, PPL’s Housing Hero and Powered by PPL initiatives with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley provide ongoing funding and support that connected approximately 180,000 local residents with shelter, food and crisis support services in 2025.  

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Celebrating Service: AmeriCorps Members Honored for Their Impact

July 22, 2026
AmeriCorps Members 2026

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley hosted an AmeriCorps Summer/End of Year Celebration to honor their immense impact on our community. The AmeriCorps members prepared and presented videos showcasing their work over the past year. In their videos, they shared why they became an AmeriCorps member, their commitment to giving back to their community, their dedication to furthering the missions of nonprofits they’re passionate about, building relationships, having authentic experiences and providing real and lasting solutions that make a difference.

view their video showcase

Your United Way is proud to have 24 AmeriCorps members serve at 15 sites working closely with staff in the United Way office, school districts and nonprofits throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.