News

A Record-Breaking Day of Connection, Growth and Community at the 2026 Lehigh Valley Women’s Summit

June 22, 2026

The 2026 Lehigh Valley Women’s Summit welcomed 850 attendees at Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, making it the largest Summit in the event’s history and creating a day filled with connection, inspiration and shared purpose. Attendees gathered to exchange ideas, reconnect with colleagues, expand their networks and create space to focus on their career advancement, personal growth and leadership development.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley co-hosted the Summit alongside the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and Cedar Crest College, bringing together women from across the region for a full day of inspiration, connection, and community.

Helping set the tone for the day was emcee Hannah Votta Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Joyful Giving, an active United Way volunteer and current member of United Way’s Tocqueville Cabinet and Women United. Through her warmth, energy and joyful spirit, Hannah created an atmosphere that encouraged attendees to connect, engage and fully embrace the experience.

The morning keynote was delivered by Stef Ziev, an executive career coach, life coach and Easton, PA native, whose message encouraged attendees to embrace change, move through challenges with intention and create more joy and purpose in both life and leadership.

In the afternoon, journalist, entrepreneur and bestselling author Mariana Atencio closed the Summit with a message centered on authenticity and the power of embracing what makes each person unique. Her reflections on navigating change and showing up fully resonated with attendees throughout the room.

Women United, United Way’s giving society for women passionate about creating positive change for women and children in our community, sponsored the event and hosted a table in the Summit Marketplace, which was a great opportunity to connect with attendees, share what Women United is all about and engage with community members who share a commitment to making the Lehigh Valley stronger.

Women United also held a raffle featuring a truly one-of-a-kind prize: a copy of PURSEonality: How I Created The Largest Handbag Collection in the World and Why along with a unique purse from the author’s personal collection. Both were generously donated by Women United member Ilene Hochberg Wood.

Many attendees shared that the conversations and messages throughout the day felt timely and meaningful, offering encouragement, perspective and renewed energy to carry forward.

The record-setting attendance reflects something bigger than a number. It reflects a community of women continuing to show up for themselves, for one another and for the future of the Lehigh Valley.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Recognizes Outgoing Board Members for Their Many Years of Service and Leadership

June 17, 2026

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley extends our gratitude to Veronica Gonzalez, MBA and Peter Ruggiero for their time, service and deep commitment as members of our Board of Directors. Their dedication to building a stronger community has helped advance our mission, deepen our impact and create more opportunities for people to thrive across the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Veronica Gonzalez, MBA, is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Valley Health Partners Community Health Center (VHP). VHP is dedicated to advancing the health and wellness of the Lehigh Valley’s most vulnerable community members. The organization consists of well-established community-based practices and programs that were previously under the umbrella of Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN). Gonzalez has over 17 years of healthcare administration experience with expertise in process improvement, leadership, fiscal responsibility and community-based program management.

Gonzalez’s career progression reflects her passion for serving vulnerable patients. She began her career at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) in 2005, working first as a secretary and later as a trained medical interpreter. Always an advocate for the underserved, she advanced through multiple leadership positions overseeing Interpreter Services, the Centro de Salud Latino Health Initiative, Lehigh Neurology, the Center for Women’s Medicine and served as the Administrator of the Community Practices that transitioned to VHP at the LVHN 17th St campus. In her current role as Chief Executive Officer, Veronica collaborates with the Board of Directors to establish long-term strategic goals for delivering high-quality healthcare to underserved populations.

Peter Ruggiero is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Crayola, a Hallmark company based in Easton, Pa. He is responsible for all aspects of Crayola’s global business, providing strategic direction and vision for the company and brand. He is passionate about fulfilling the Crayola brand mission to help parents and educators raise creatively alive children. Crayola LLC is the leading consumer products brand in the children’s creative expression category.

Ruggiero began his career with the accounting firm Deloitte & Touche before transitioning to a key role on the corporate staff of Union Pacific Corporation. In 1997, Ruggiero joined Crayola and evolved through key leadership positions including Director, Corporate Sourcing; Managing Director, Europe; and Vice President, Global Finance; and, most recently, Chief Operating Officer. Under his leadership, Crayola’s global supply chain has been transformed and enables Crayola’s strategy through the addition of critical capabilities, the automation of U.S. manufacturing, the integration of structured problem solving (LEAN and Six Sigma), the development of Crayola’s regional supply and logistics networks, and the execution of numerous sustainability initiatives including a 3.0 megawatt solar farm at Crayola’s corporate headquarters in Easton, Pa.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Helps Bring Northeast Region Together at Historic Conference

June 17, 2026

United Way Northeast Regional Conference

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and United Way Worldwide were proud to host the first 2026 Northeast Regional Conference, which brought together 461 attendees from 88 United Ways across 13 states, stretching from Maine to Ohio, introducing them to everything that Pennsylvania has to offer with the Mummers and the various Lehigh Valley Mascots making morning appearances. It was a powerful reminder that when communities come together sharing ideas, challenges and solutions, the impact is far greater than any one organization could achieve alone.

Collaboration at the Core

A consistent message rang out across sessions: today’s most pressing challenges cannot be solved by any single organization. Lasting change depends on strong partnerships among nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, schools and community members working in concert.

Using Data to Drive Change

Participants explored how tools like 211 and ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) help communities identify emerging needs, understand service gaps and direct resources where they can have the greatest impact. When we listen to both data and community voice, we make smarter, more equitable decisions.

Innovation and Strong Leadership

Attendees also explored fresh approaches to philanthropy, volunteer engagement, workforce development and community investment ensuring United Ways across the region remain responsive as needs evolve. Conference sessions on board governance, organizational culture and crisis response reinforced that strong communities start with strong leadership at every level.

Thank you to our speakers Dr. Anita Chandra, Distinguished Chair in American Social Policy from RAND, Turtle Clan Mother Whatwehni:neh, Frieda Jacques of the Onondaga Nation, Dr. Robert Simmons, the VP of US Social Impact and Community Engagement and National Grid, Rosie Allen-Herring, Interim President and CEO of United Way Worldwide and Michael Allison, veteran and CEO/Founder of the Adversity Leadership Institute.

To our co-chairs Marci Lesko, President and CEO of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Peter Gannon, CEO of United Way Greater Capital Region.

And to our sponsors: United Way Worldwide, Sunny, PPL Corp., Beyond The Horizon Technologies, Andar, UPIC Solutions and StratusLIVE, UPIC Solutions, Capital CFO+, Elizabethtown College, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, Prezzee, Seabrooks, Staples, The Outreach Program, United Way of Greater New York State, United Way of the Greater Capital Region, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Visionlink, Your Part Time Controller, UniFi, United Way of Pennsylvania, Just Born Quality Confections, United Way of Long Island, GivePulse, Milton Hershey School, HDI Wholesale, Crayola, Tech Lounge, Turnstone Creative, Dan Barnes and the Barnes Family Foundation, and Adversity Academy for helping making this event possible.

View the Full Photo Gallery

News

Air Products Announces More Than $6 Million Contribution to United Way and Partners

June 16, 2026

Air Products continues to demonstrate its longstanding commitment to United Way and the communities where its employees and retirees live and work. Through their 2025 annual United Way campaign, 1,132 employees and retirees, combined with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Air Products Foundation, contributed donations of $6,024,164. Their collective generosity will support 110 local United Ways in 44 states, helping to strengthen communities across the country.

Air Products announced the campaign results during a volunteer experience at Roosevelt Elementary School, a United Way Community School located in the Allentown School District in Pennsylvania. Nearly 100 volunteers participated in projects designed to support students, families and staff while helping create a welcoming environment for learning and growth.

“United Way has long been an important partner for Air Products. Together, we’re able to support programs that strengthen the communities where our employees live and work, helping students succeed and families and individuals build brighter futures,” said Katie McDonald, vice president, Corporate Communications and Corporate Relations and president of the Air Products Foundation.

This successful campaign means that communities around the country will benefit, since employees’ and retirees’ donations stay in their home communities. The contributions directly support 854 nonprofit organizations in 44 states, including local United Ways that address critical community needs. To acknowledge this far-reaching impact, United Way recently named Air Products as a Leading Corporate Partner, exclusive recognition reserved for the organization’s most deeply engaged and invested supporters.

“Air Products’ partnership with United Way reflects a deep commitment to strengthening communities through generosity and action,” said United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chief Philanthropy Officer Chip Hurd. “As a leader in their global headquarters community, Air Products’ investments to reach nearly 250,000 people each year through programs that support education, health and community stability in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.”

News

An Evening Celebrating the Leadership and Impact of Tocqueville Society Members

May 20, 2026

View the Full Photo Gallery

About 200 Tocqueville Society members and guests gathered at the Victaulic Guest House in Easton for an evening of celebration, connection and appreciation hosted by Rick and Amy Bucher, 2026 United Way Campaign Co-Chairs. The event recognized the generosity and leadership of Tocqueville members whose support continues to strengthen the Greater Lehigh Valley. During the evening, guests reflected on how philanthropy helps create opportunity, possibility and futures that families can count on while highlighting the collective impact Tocqueville members are making across the community.

News

United Way Welcomes New Partner: Lehigh Valley P4P Boxing Gym

May 07, 2026

United Way’s nonprofit partners stand UNITED, working to address our community’s greatest challenges and improve opportunities for community youth. Together, we are helping young people build confidence, strengthen social-emotional wellness and develop healthy outlets that support long-term mental health and well-being.

That’s why partnerships with organizations like Lehigh Valley P4P Boxing Gym are so important. By creating safe, supportive spaces for youth, these programs help young people build resilience, form positive relationships and develop skills that prepare them for success in school, work and life.

Lehigh Valley P4P Boxing Gym’s mission is to provide local youth with a safe environment where they can learn the sport of boxing while developing values like discipline, integrity and responsibility.

Paul Pinnock has served as Executive Director and head trainer since 2018, leading a welcoming program open to all ages, genders and skill levels at the gym’s Allentown location.

To learn more about Lehigh Valley P4P Boxing Gym, visit www.lvp4boxing.org.

News

United Way Names Grand Incentive Prize Winner Courtesy of Brown‑Daub Dealerships

April 27, 2026

2025 incentive prize winner-grand prize winner with United Way and Brown-Daub Dealerships staff

Last month, Jessica Reimert of Community Action Lehigh Valley was named the Grand Prize winner in United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s 2025-2026 campaign incentive drawing. As the Grand Prize winner, Jessica had the choice between a 2025 Kia K4 or $10,000 in cash, generously provided by Brown‑Daub Dealerships, and she chose the cash option.

A United Way Women United member for three years, Jessica remains actively involved through volunteering and giving. Originally from Schuylkill County and now living in Berks County, she and her husband have strong ties to the region and share a deep commitment to giving back. “I give because I truly believe in supporting the community when you are fortunate enough to do so,” shared Jessica. “Women United is especially meaningful to me because when women work together, they can make a real difference. Community Stability matters most to me because when a community is strong, everyone benefits, no matter where they are in life.” Jessica also shared that she and her family plan to donate a portion of the winnings back to Women United and Community Action Lehigh Valley, while using the remainder to restore a classic car and save for the future.

Brown‑Daub Dealerships joined United Way in celebrating Jessica during the prize presentation at one of their dealerships in Easton, continuing a tradition that has become a hallmark of the annual campaign. For nearly two decades, Brown‑Daub has offered a vehicle or $10,000 cash incentive to United Way donors, helping recognize generosity and inspire increased giving. As longtime members of United Way’s Cornerstone Society, which honors partners who contribute $100,000 or more annually, Brown‑Daub’s support reflects a deep and lasting commitment to the Greater Lehigh Valley and the people who call it home.

“Brown‑Daub and my family have been connected to United Way for many years, and giving back has always been important to us,” said Tom Daub, President of Brown‑Daub Dealerships. “Partnering with United Way allows us to support the causes that help keep our community strong, from education to long‑term stability for families. Being part of this incentive program is something we are proud to continue.”

“Brown‑Daub’s commitment to United Way goes far beyond the incentive drawing,” said Paul Hurd, Chief Philanthropy Officer at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Their generosity, leadership and long‑standing partnership have helped fuel meaningful change across our region for years. We are sincerely grateful for the role they play in strengthening our community and for standing with us year after year.”

Individuals who contributed at least $365 to United Way’s 2025-2026 Campaign were entered to win one of six incentive prizes:

• Grand Prize: $10,000 cash or a leased 2025 Kia K4, presented to Jessica Reimert of Community Action Lehigh Valley
• First Prize: $2,500 in Wegmans gift cards, presented to Jodi Schucker of St. Luke’s University Health Network
• Second Prize: Lehigh Valley IronPigs Dugout Suite, presented to Andrew Jacob Atiyeh of PPL Corp., courtesy of BSI Corporate Benefits
• Third Prize: Lehigh Valley Phantoms Suite Tickets, presented to Tina M. Rauch of PPL Corp., courtesy of Capital Blue Cross
• Fourth Prize: Martin Guitar, presented to Jahcquan Britton of Just Born Quality Confections, courtesy of C.F. Martin & Co.
• Fifth Prize: Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom Gold Pass for the 2026 season, presented to Vincent R. R. Beller of B. Braun

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Raises $27,731,984 to Improve Lives for a Stronger Greater Lehigh Valley

April 16, 2026

VIEW THE FULL PHOTO GALLERY

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley supporters raised a record-breaking $27,731,984, marking 16 consecutive years of growth and continued investment in the region’s most pressing needs. Led by Campaign Co-Chairs CAPTRUST’s Mike Molewski and his wife Diane, this year’s campaign reflects how individuals, organizations and partners across the region continue to step up in response to growing and changing needs with generosity and urgency. When including donations to United Way’s Critical Support Fund and contributions through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit program, United Way raised $30,436,542 in total.

“As one of seven children and the first in my family to attend college, I know how hard it is to reach your goals when you’re just trying to make ends meet,” shared Mike. “I was fortunate to receive support from mentors who greatly influenced the path of my life. Diane and I are proud to be a part of the life-changing programs at United Way that empower so many in the Lehigh Valley to achieve their dreams.”

Donors and partners helped connect nearly 43,000 students and families with education resources to support learning and growth, increased community stability by ensuring over 178,000 people had access to food, housing and emergency services and supported nearly 8,000 older adults with healthy aging resources that promote health and connection.

“This year, our community showed what it means to respond with care and consistency,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “What stayed true throughout was our responsibility to respond with care and to move at the speed of need. Mike and Diane’s leadership, generosity and long history of dedication helped set the tone for this campaign and inspired others to step up in meaningful ways.”

Altogether, a strong network of partners and donors increased their contributions to the annual campaign, which ran from April 2025 to March 2026. PPL Corp.’s employees, retirees and corporate foundation reinforced their extraordinary commitment by contributing more than $10,000,000 this year, a first for the local United Way and their fourth consecutive year raising more than $6,000,000 in support of the community. Air Products raised more than $5,000,000, marking their fifth straight year raising more than $5,000,000. City Center Group, Crayola, CAI, Victaulic, CAPTRUST Financial Advisors – Allentown and Keel Infrastructure each raised more than $1,000,000.

“United Way’s work is made possible by partners, donors and volunteers who continue to show up for this community,” said United Way Board Chair Joe Savage, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at Victaulic. “That kind of responsiveness is built on strong partnerships and deep trust. When challenges intensified for families and nonprofit partners, we stayed steady by providing flexible support, listening closely and acting quickly so people could continue to access the resources they rely on.”

United Way announced the results today during Celebration of Caring, presented by Crayola. The event celebrates and honors organizations and individuals who have made a significant impact in the community in partnership with United Way. Together, their efforts helped improve the lives of nearly 250,000 people across the Greater Lehigh Valley this year. Award recipients included:

PPL LIVE UNITED Award – B. Braun Medical Inc.
Campaign Chairs’ Award – Dan and Susan Barnes
Community Builder Award – Greater Community Development Corporation
Air Products Leonard Pool Community Impact Award – The Century Promise
Lifetime Achievement Award – Robert and Susan Gadomski

Valued community partners in sponsorship for this year’s Celebration of Caring include:

Presenting sponsor – Crayola
Platinum sponsors – Dual Temp Company Inc.; PPL Corp.
Bronze sponsors – B. Braun Medical Inc.; CAPTRUST Financial Advisors – Allentown; Keel Infrastructure; Just Born Quality Confections; Turnstone Creative; Victaulic
Pearl sponsors – BSI Corporate Benefits; Alvin H. Butz, Inc.; City Center Group; Jim and Sarah Edwards; Good Shepherd Rehabilitation; HNL Lab Medicine; Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health; Lehigh Valley Community Foundation; Quadrant Capital; Quandel Construction Group, LLC; St. Luke’s University Health Network; Truist Bank; Tuskes Homes
Friends of United Way – Alvernia University; Gallagher Benefits; MCIT; MillerSearles
In-kind contributors – ArtsQuest; RichMar Florist; Working Dog Press

For more information about United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and its impact in the community, visit www.UnitedWayGLV.org.

News

Art Meets Impact: Women United Creates a Mural for ProJeCt of Easton

April 09, 2026

View the Full Photo Gallery

To round out Women’s History Month, United Way Women United brought together 56 members and guests for a special collaborative mural experience at JuxtaHub, an arts and innovation center in Emmaus on March 31.

Surrounded by creativity and community, attendees enjoyed light refreshments, meaningful conversation and the opportunity to contribute to a hands-on group mural. Guests also had the opportunity to explore JuxtaHub’s gallery, ceramics workshop and art studio, setting the tone for an evening rooted in connection and purpose.

JuxtaHub Executive Director Ryan Hill, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley President and CEO Marci Lesko, ProJeCt of Easton Executive Director Kim Checkeye and Women United President Karla Trumbauer shared remarks highlighting the collective impact of Women United.

“We volunteer. We support. We give back. Together, Women United members are helping ensure that women, children and families in our region have access to safety, stability and opportunity,” said Lesko.

The mural will soon brighten the halls of ProJeCt of Easton, a United Way partner agency. More than a piece of art, it will serve as a welcoming symbol for the individuals and families who walk through its doors.

“This is more than a piece of art,” Checkeye shared. “It’s a message that says you are seen, you are supported and you are not alone.”

Women United President Trumbauer reinforced how each individual action contributes to something larger. “When we invest in women, children and families, it strengthens the entire community,” she said. “Every act of support adds up, creating healthier families, stronger neighborhoods and more opportunity for everyone.”

“Because of you, families facing a crisis are not left to navigate it alone,” added Checkeye. “Whether it’s keeping the lights on, staying in their home or accessing food, your support ensures people have what they need to move forward.”

Together, Women United members are turning connection into action and creating lasting impact for women, children and families across the Greater Lehigh Valley. If you’re interested in joining Women United to become part of a community that shows up, gives back and helps every person thrive, please visit www.UnitedWayGLV.org/WU or contact Maddi Falcone.

Special thank you to JuxtaHub for hosting and for their generous in-kind support.

News

More Front Doors for Carbon County: Turning Conversation into Solutions

April 08, 2026

On Wednesday, March 15 your United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, in partnership with Re-Imagine Carbon and Community Development of the Poconos, held More Front Doors for Carbon County, an event focused on understanding current housing challenges, including the growing need for senior housing and advancing collaborative solutions to reimagining housing in Carbon County.

Community members and partners gathered to hear from state and local leaders, including Samar Jha of AARP and Morgan Boyd of Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, along with a panel of housing and development professionals sharing local insights and solutions.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Marci Lesko, kicked off the event, sharing her personal connection to Carbon County and her excitement for the role your United Way plays in advancing solutions. She highlighted the organization’s strength and momentum, “We’ve had 16 consecutive years of campaign growth,” she said, “and our most recent campaign has surpassed both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, making us the largest in the state.”

Marci underscored the trust the community places in their organization: “People trust us to invest their money back into the nonprofits doing the work to help our neighbors. I know because I live here. We can’t do it alone. We have to work together to find solutions.”

The event concluded with breakout discussions, where attendees identified key housing challenges and shared ideas to help shape future solutions for the community.

Thank you to our partners: Moses Taylor Foundation, Re-Imagine Carbon County, Community Development of the Poconos and Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley, for helping drive this important work forward.