Empowered 2gether: Women Creating Change Across the Lehigh Valley
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