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Help Make the Holidays Brighter for Lehigh Valley Families

October 28, 2026

As the holidays approach, we invite Women United members to support our local nonprofit partners by shopping their holiday wish lists. A pair of slippers, a coloring book or a grocery store gift card can help meet a family’s needs and bring a little more joy this winter. Your unwavering generosity is the reason that Women United continues to positively impact the community and helps ensure local families have items they need to feel supported during the holiday season.

Below you will find direct links to our partners’ wish lists, where you can support these organizations’ needs.

Have any questions on the wish lists below? Reach out to Madeline Falcone for more information.

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Women United Celebrates Community Impact at Annual Fall Meeting

October 26, 2026
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Nearly 100 guests gathered at Llantrisant Event Venue in Tatamy for Women United 2026 sponsored by HNL Lab Medicine and RKL, an evening celebrating the power of collective generosity and the difference women are making across the Lehigh Valley. Attendees connected over fall bites from United Way partner Kellyn and heard how their support is helping local families thrive.

With more than 160 active members, Women United brings together women who invest their time, talent and resources to strengthen opportunities for women, children and families in our community. Women United members are already helping make that possible. This year, 14 pre-K students at Central Elementary STREAM Academy in the Allentown School District began school prepared to succeed after spending the summer building routines, social skills and friendships. At The Literacy Center, 35 women participated in Women Rising, a program that builds career readiness skills and supports pathways to reliable, long-term employment. These are examples of how investing in education can strengthen futures for children and families across the region.

Amy Bucher, chair of United Way’s 2026 Campaign with her husband, Rick, shared how her experience as a former English teacher shaped her commitment to education. She emphasized the importance of early literacy and the role that support beyond the classroom plays in helping children succeed. Through the Shine Bright for Education Challenge, Amy and Rick, are encouraging the community to invest in students and help more children build a strong foundation for the future.

“Every time you renew your membership, invite a friend or roll up your sleeves, you’re helping a child walk into school ready to learn,” Amy said.

Sarah McArthur, editor-in-chief of Leader to Leader Journal, announced the Frances Hesselbein-Alan Mulally United Way Leader of the Future Scholarship Fund. Planned to launch in 2027, the scholarship will support students pursuing higher education as well as professionals continuing their education and learning. Thanks to the generosity of the Leader2Leader Institute and Laurie Siebert, previous Women United president and recipient of the 2024 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year Award, the scholarship will support four recipients annually.  Additional contributions will help grow an endowment and expand educational opportunities for future leaders. Click here to donate to the Frances Hesselbein-Alan Mulally Leader of the Future Scholarship Fund and select Leader of the Future Scholarship Fund from the drop down.

Donate to the Leader of the Future Scholarship Fund

The evening also celebrated the impact of a community member whose work inspires others to turn kindness into action. Hannah Votta Coleman, an active volunteer and member of United Way’s Women United and Tocqueville Society, received the 2026 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year Award for her leadership and service.

Hannah serves as Founder and Executive Director of Joyful Giving, a nonprofit that assembles care packages filled with essential items and small comforts to help people feel seen and cared for.

“Everyone deserves a gift. Not just a cute little package with essential items in it, but the gift of being loved and seen,” Hannah shared.

Since its founding in 2022, Joyful Giving has distributed 62,500 Joymaker Bags to children and adults around the world, including in 15 countries outside the United States. The bags are made by community volunteers, and the organization has engaged 4,500 volunteers and built partnerships with 90 nonprofits. Hannah also highlighted how the experience creates opportunities for volunteers to connect and give back, including a group of neurodivergent adults from The Arc who assemble bags each week.

Congratulations to Hannah on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you to all Women United members for helping create brighter futures for women and children throughout the Lehigh Valley.

As guests mingled, Emmaus School District educator and artisan behind Katie Did Crafts, Katie Phenniger built custom stars commissioned for Women United members. Custom stars are available for purchase for $40 and support Women United. To purchase contact Madeline Falcone.

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A Legacy of Giving Back: Why Thomas and Hillary Daub Support United Way

October 16, 2026
Thomas and Hillary Daub

Giving back has been part of Thomas Daub’s life for as long as he can remember. It was a value instilled in him early, and one that has continued throughout his career, his family’s philanthropy and his decades-long relationship with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Tom and his wife, Hillary, residents of Easton, joined Tocqueville Society in 2010 but his commitment to United Way began even earlier. When he first started working at Brown-Daub Dealerships, he contributed $2 each week through payroll giving. As his career progressed, so did his contributions.

“We were taught at an early age the importance of giving back to the community that supports you and your business,” Tom shared. “We give to United Way of Greater Lehigh Valley because we know the money will be distributed in the most efficient and impactful way.”

That trust has grown into a lasting partnership. Tom is a former United Way board member and currently serves on the Nominating and Audit committees. He has also served on the boards of United Way-funded partners Children’s Home of Easton and Equi-librium.

The Daub family’s commitment extends through Brown-Daub Family of Dealerships, which has offered a vehicle or $10,000 cash incentive to United Way donors for nearly two decades. As members of United Way’s Cornerstone Society, recognizing partners who contribute $100,000 or more annually, Brown-Daub continues to demonstrate its deep investment in the Greater Lehigh Valley. In 2023, Brown-Daub received United Way’s highest honor, the PPL LIVE UNITED Award, recognizing its community leadership, employee engagement and commitment to improving quality of life across the region.

We are deeply grateful to Tom and Hillary Daub and the entire Brown-Daub family for making giving back a lifelong commitment and for the trust they continue to place in United Way. Their generosity and leadership are helping create a stronger Greater Lehigh Valley for generations to come.

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Tocqueville Society Members Gather to Celebrate Their Shared Commitment to Our Community

October 09, 2026
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More than 230 Tocqueville Society members gathered at the new Waterfront residential building along the Lehigh River to celebrate the kickoff of the 2026-27 campaign season. The evening highlighted the impact of Tocqueville philanthropy, including an update on the Front Street Fire Fund and how donor support has helped families recover while advancing efforts to help prevent and prepare for future disasters.

Campaign Chairs Rick and Amy Bucher also shared their appreciation for Tocqueville members whose generosity helps United Way respond to both ongoing community needs and unexpected challenges. The evening was a celebration of the collective impact Tocqueville members make throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.

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Women United Honors Hannah Votta Coleman of Joyful Giving as the 2026 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year

September 30, 2026
Women United Honors Hannah Votta Coleman of Joyful Giving as the 2026 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Women United will present its highest honor, the 2026 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year Award, to Hannah Votta Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Joyful Giving.

The award recognizes a Women United member who is active in the community, demonstrates philanthropic leadership in the Lehigh Valley and makes a personal commitment of time, talent and treasure. It is named for Women United’s founding president, Betsy Torrence, whose example embodies the spirit of the honor.

“Receiving this award is truly an honor,” Coleman said. “I’m grateful to be recognized for work rooted in the belief that heartfelt giving can bring hope, joy and lasting impact.”

Coleman will receive the award at Women United 2026, sponsored by RKL Advisors. The annual event will take place Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Llantrisant Event Venue. Registration is available HERE.

 “Hannah is incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Karla Trumbauer, President of Women United. “Through Joyful Giving, she brings joy not only to the thousands of people who receive Joy Maker bags, but also to everyone who takes part in giving them. Her deep love for our community, along with the energy and passion she brings to everything she does, makes her an ideal recipient of this award. We are incredibly thankful to have her as a longtime member of Women United.”

As Founder and Executive Director of Joyful Giving, Coleman leads a nonprofit that packages essential items to look and feel like gifts, creating moments of joy for recipients. Thousands of Joy Maker bags have been distributed throughout the Lehigh Valley and around the world in support of her vision: Give Joy, Get Joy.

“Hannah exemplifies the spirit of Women United through her generous investment of time, talent and resources,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Her leadership strengthens United Way’s work and inspires others to help build a more caring and connected Greater Lehigh Valley.”

An active community volunteer and member of United Way’s Women United and Tocqueville Society, Coleman’s generosity extends beyond financial support. Through honesty, authenticity and kindness, she brings together volunteers, businesses, organizations and community leaders to address basic human needs and strengthen the region.

Locally, Women United’s 165 active members improve the lives of women, children and families across the Greater Lehigh Valley through philanthropy, advocacy and volunteer service. Together, they raise $268,000 annually in support of 10 regional projects that address critical community needs and create lasting change. The group is part of a global network of more than 55,000 women in 165 communities across six countries, united by a commitment to improving lives and building stronger communities.

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United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley provides funding for more than 25,000 pounds of fruits, vegetables and fresh protein to local food pantries through charitable support from Eli Lilly and Company to United Way Worldwide

September 29, 2026
GRAPHIC - We nourish every person and nurture every community United Way and Lilly

As families across the country continue to face rising food costs and increasing barriers to accessing healthy meals, through charitable support from Eli Lilly and Company to United Way Worldwide, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is providing 25,000 pounds of nutritious food to the Greater Lehigh Valley community. The charitable support provided by Lilly is part of a nationwide initiative by Lilly marking the company’s 150th anniversary and promoting access to healthy food for those in need in 15 communities, like the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Through this initiative, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank, a program of Community Action Lehigh Valley, to distribute protein-rich foods to six area food pantries. Each pantry received at least 4,000 pounds of chicken, cheese and fresh produce to distribute to local families. Local pantries include Community Bike Works in Allentown, Northeast Community Center and Hispanic Center Lehigh Valley in Bethlehem, Slater Family Network in Bangor, Parkland CARES Food Pantry in Orefield and Family Connection of Easton.

In addition to food distribution, United Way connected nine pantries to sustainable food solutions with HATCH cold storage units to expand their refrigerated offerings. The following pantries each received one HATCH cold storage unit delivered during the summer: Parkland CARES Food Pantry, Family Connection of Easton, Boys & Girls Club of Allentown, Living Christ Chapel Food Pantry, Syrian Arab American Charity Association, Bethel Bible Fellowship Church Groceries PLUS Pantry, Catholic Charities Diocese of Allentown, Zion United Church of Christ Delly Berger Feed-A-Neighbor Food Pantry, and St. Ann’s Bridgeport Pantry.

“This effort is more than providing food for today – it’s about helping families build healthier futures,” said Marci Lesko, President and CEO of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Too many families are forced to make impossible choices between buying groceries, paying rent, covering utilities, or filling prescriptions. By working together with Lilly and our community partners, we’re helping to ensure more people have access to nutritious food while strengthening the health of individuals and families. We’re grateful for Lilly’s support of United Way Worldwide, which is supporting this event, and the long-term impact it will have in our community.”

Nutritious food is a critical building block to lifelong health as it supports child development, helps adults manage chronic conditions, and enables older adults to live healthier, more independent lives. Yet many families continue to face obstacles – including affordability, transportation and limited access to fresh food – that make accessing nutritious food difficult. In fact, according to the Urban Institute’s Well-Being and Basic Needs Survey, 1 in 4 adults report experiencing household food insecurity and having difficulty affording adequate food.

In the Greater Lehigh Valley, 20 percent of children experience food insecurity, and roughly 40 percent of all households struggle to make ends meet.

For more than a century, Lilly and United Way have worked together to advance health initiatives, support education, and address social determinants of health for stronger communities. Lilly is part of the President’s Circle of the United Way Leading Corporate Partners Program, a new United Way Worldwide recognition program. Nearly 600 United Ways have been supported through Lilly employee giving programs and volunteering.

Lilly’s commitment to community extends beyond philanthropy. Through its Global Day of Service, launched in 2008, thousands of Lilly employees volunteer in communities around the world. As part of the September 24 event, Lilly employee volunteers joined United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley to give back to the Greater Lehigh Valley.

For more information about United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, visit www.UnitedWayGLV.org

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Fulton Bank Steps Up to the Plate for United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley 

September 23, 2026

In 2026, Fulton Bank turned every IronPigs run into an opportunity to give back this season, donating $25 for each run scored by the Lehigh Valley IronPigs in support of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. 

By the end of the season, that commitment added up to a $19,260 gift to help advance United Way’s work across the region: connecting people with resources, strengthening neighborhoods and expanding opportunities for those who need them most. 

“Every run scored this season became more than a number on the scoreboard; it became a way to help our neighbors,” said Shaun Marakovits, Senior Director, Workplace Engagement, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “We are deeply grateful to Fulton Bank for bringing heart, generosity and community spirit to this partnership, and for helping ensure more children, families and older adults across our region have the support they need to thrive.” 

The contribution was celebrated during a recent on-field presentation before the IronPigs faced the Worcester Red Sox, where Fulton Bank representatives Doug Downing and Sara Russ presented the check to United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. The moment highlighted a season-long partnership rooted in community pride, hometown baseball and a shared commitment to the Greater Lehigh Valley. 

Fulton Bank has long been a trusted and valued partner of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, and this latest gift reflects the bank’s continued dedication to supporting local children, families and older adults. United Way is grateful for Fulton Bank’s generosity and for partners like the IronPigs who help bring the community together for a greater purpose. 

As this season comes to a close, the momentum continues. Fulton Bank is already looking ahead to next year, with plans to build on this partnership and make an even greater impact for the Greater Lehigh Valley.  

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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  

  • Day of Caring 2026
  • Day of Caring 2026
  • Day of Caring 2026
  • Day of Caring 2026
  • Day of Caring 2026
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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.

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

September 01, 2026
Welcome Alison Pickel

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.