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Home | News | February 2016 | Valentine's Day Contest

Valentine's Day Contest

Published: February 11, 2016

THANK YOU to all of our contestants who helped spread love throughout our community, not only on Valentine’s Day, but all year long. Find out who won our contest.

A Valentine's Day challenge for our LIVE UNITED fans. Tell us your favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit in the comments section below and why you LOVE to support it.

This time of year we wanted to share the love, so one lucky answer will win $100 in Target gift cards. One $50 gift card for YOU and one to donate to the local charity that you L❤VE.

Contest ends 2.14.16 at 8 p.m. ET.

Winners will be announced on our website, Twitter and Facebook feed, and notified through their provided email address. Connect with us on social media and follow #LOVEUNITEDLV to get contest updates, and be part of the change for a stronger, healthier Lehigh Valley!

For more information or questions, please email Jill Brader.

*Comments will be published daily

Comments

	Nancy McAtee
	We love doing Meals on Wheels....my husband and & I have been doing it almost 6 years.... we really enjoying seeing the people, delivering a meal with a smile and making thier day!
	2/6/2017 8:35:39 PM
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	Honorée Kerrigan
	My favorite Lehigh Valley non profit is the Junior League of the Lehigh Valley (JLLV). I joined as a new resident of the Lehigh Valley and I found it was a great way to: learn about my community, gain leadership skills, and make friends with like-minded women! More about JLLV: The Junior League of the Lehigh Valley was founded in 1922 as "The Junior Welfare League of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania." It is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership. The League's current community impact focuses on Educational Disparity through improving life skills and reducing the educational gap in lower income communities.
	2/19/2016 10:10:03 AM
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	Doug Mancini
	Community Bike Works is my favorite non-profit organization in the Lehigh Valley. Ever since I was introduced to the organization about a year ago, I knew it was something special. Bike Works offers an outstanding atmosphere to help guide local children down a path of long term success. The lessons taught at CBW are long standing and are offered to kids that may not have ever gotten this kind of attention otherwise. The programs at Community Bike Works are fun, hands on and extremely valuable. It is a one of a kind organization with strong roots, fantastic staff and filled with positive energy!
	2/14/2016 5:19:45 PM
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	Nancy
	My favorite non-profit is Meals on Wheels of Lehigh Valley. I have just become a volunteer grocery shopper and it is exciting to know that one person can assist seniors in such a small way. Seniors are definitely in need of such a service that allows them to remain in their own homes and as independent as possible for as long as possible. I will definintely do my part in sharing the news of this vital service!
	2/14/2016 3:54:01 PM
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	Kathleen Kuck
	The Valor Clinic Foundation - no matter the weather, the volunteers are out there helping our homeless veterans giving food, clothing, toiletries, tents and other supplies so that hopefully they will live to see another day. Their Veterans Unstoppable program helps veterans with PTSD learn to manage their lives better to prevent suicide! The veterans who help other veterans show their continuing commitment to service. As a lay volunteer, I am humbled by their honor.
	2/13/2016 5:59:07 PM
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	Cyndi Feichtel
	Easter Seals Eastern PA is my favorite, because of all the wonderful things they do for both those with disabilities and for their families!
	2/13/2016 3:39:43 PM
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	Debbie
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County and Market on Wheels makes a difference in peoples lives! Both in the lives of people they serve and in those that volunteer for the agency. Very proud to be part of helping out the community through their services!!
	2/13/2016 9:52:28 AM
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	Cari Cieszynski
	American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Lehigh Valley Chapter is the greatest! I love the events they host to raise awareness of mental health and erase stigma against mental health and suicide!! They also incorporate numerous programs to prevent suicide in the community!!
	2/13/2016 8:03:47 AM
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	Laura Accetta
	Easton Area Community Center is my favorite. This little place structurally occupies an old building over 100 years old which neans everyday the staff of a very few fix the clogged toilets, blacktop the driveway, shovel the snow, and change the florescent bulbs high atop the gym floor to name just a few. They do not the luxury of air conditioning in the gym either. Ms. Ads, chief cook and bottle washer can turn $20 into a healthy and delicious meal for 100 hungry kids and vomubteers.for her, it's really a family affair as she brings them all in to help when the going gets rough...and that's just about daily. These folks are feeding, educating, clothing, keeping safe and most importantly LOVING children that a community can't. Competing with religious, political and big name charities is rough for the little guy because many times folks want to donate to the place they know the most about. Big budgets allow for wide spread advertising. Easton Area Community Center is a little fish in a big ocean but they never say never and they never give up...it's not an option for these children and families that rely on them.
	2/13/2016 8:00:31 AM
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	Julia Burns
	My Favorite: Habitat for Humanity Lehigh Valley Affiliate Hi folks! Coming to Muhlenberg College, I was excited and nervous to learn about my new home for the next four years of my life. In high school, it was difficult to find an immediate group of friends and in my sophomore year of high school, I joined Habitat for Humanity and had found a great community to be a part of. I am happy to say that Habitat for Humanity Lehigh Valley (HFHLV) Affiliate has given me an opportunity to engage with communities in Allentown and greater Lehigh Valley. Over the course of four years, I have participated in build sites, the HFHLV ReStore, and the family fun events. HFHLV has a great relationship with the community families, engaging and partnering with families towards home ownership. The office is close to all of their partner families, supporting the family through out and after the process of home ownership, providing resources and fun! HFHLV impresses me with its continuous growth and community building. They established a ReStore, which provides affordable gently used home goods supporting families and the Lehigh Valley. They recently established a Paint ReMix programs, which recycles latex paint into reusable paint. This is already in addition to several annual fundraisers that raise awareness and help fund their mission such as the Polar Plunge, Toast for Hope and Women's Build Week. As a past Muhlenberg College Habitat for Humanity Chapter President, the Chapter has been able to engage with HFHLV on multiple levels through partnering with the ReStore, going on builds, plugging into the Paint ReMix Project and getting to know families through Family Fun Nights. I am truly grateful for my experiences with HFHLV and being part of a community that supports each other. Needless to say, the Habitat for Humanity Lehigh Valley is my favorite non-profit.
	2/12/2016 9:18:33 PM
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	Alberta
	Zionsville food pantry is terrific! They treat their clients with a lot of respect and dignity. They even put the groceries in a shopping cart, wheel it out to the client's car and load it into the car for them! The staff works very hard to take care of everyone's needs and special requests whenever possible. There's even a little extra something at the holidays like Christmas gifts and coats for the kids. Last year, a cleverly packaged gift of dish soap and towel were handed out to the adults.
	2/12/2016 8:55:31 PM
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	Jane Krasley
	Meals on Wheels/Market on Wheels of Lehigh County gets my vote for the wide outreach it extends to those homebound, elderly, disabled people who need help with meals/groceries. We all take for granted that there will be a good meal for us at least once a day or that we can go stop at a grocery store whenever we need items, but for many it's just not possible to manage meals or shop. MOW provides such a valuable service in this regard and everyone served is deeply grateful.
	2/12/2016 5:25:12 PM
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	Rich Evans
	New Bethany Ministries is amazing because it does so much more to serve the needs of the growing homeless community than its limited budget would normally allow. Every volunteer at NBM makes a bit of magic with their loving service, heart to heart within the community we love.
	2/12/2016 4:52:27 PM
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	geraldine schreiber
	my favorite non profit organization is meals on wheels,seniors that can not prepare or obtain meals on there own is a very sad state of affair and i am so very grateful to every one that helps them.
	2/12/2016 4:38:13 PM
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	Dee Elliott
	I am proud to be a member of the New Bethany Ministries family especially during these frigid winter months. Most of us take our homes for granted - a place where we can be protected from the extreme winter weather. Our folks are not so lucky. We are glad that we are here to offer them shelter no matter how bad the weather. AND warmth - there is plenty to go around - warm room, hot food, warm showers, warm friendship, warm smiles, warm arms and warm hearts. All are welcome to join our family and bask in its warmth. Happy Valentine's Day family!
	2/12/2016 4:11:44 PM
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	Mary Lillman
	My favorite Not For Profit Organization is the Epilepsy Foundation. My daughter was diagnosed with Epilepsy at age 13. People from The Epilepsy Foundation were available to help us with resources and information to make living with Epilepsy more manageable. They also sent educators to her school to teach the staff and bus drivers Seizure First Aid and she also had a speaker from The Foundation, Ellen Bacca, come out to her health class to teach about Epilepsy with teenagers! I would love to find a cure for seizures one day, until then I will continue to help support my daighter and the Epilepsy Foundation.
	2/12/2016 3:20:52 PM
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	Tina Amato
	Meals on Wheels/Market on Wheels of the Lehigh County is awesome! I've been a volunteer for several years and am so grateful for the opportunity to help those who are unable to help themselves due to age or disability. To visit a MOW client who would not usually have any visitors is such a blessing. They are truly grateful for the food and conversation we provide for them. MOW administration cares about their volunteers as much as they do their clients. With encouraging emails and letters, supporting our dedication to volunteering, it helps to know how much they appreciate their volunteers. MOW is a great service to the community. They are committed to helping seniors and the disabled to live a more healthy life by providing their nutritional needs and helping them depend on those who truly care.
	2/12/2016 2:50:16 PM
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	Catherine Knowles
	The Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center provides a safe place and support for members of the community who identify as LGBTQ and their allies. The youth programs support youth who are discerning their identities, provides them with safe peer groups and helps them navigate the all-too-often diffuclt waters of coming of age and coming out. I am new to this area, and one of the first community resources I checked to identify is a support system for members of the LGBT community and was thrilled to see this organization and its growth and support from the community at large. As a lesbian and parent of a trans son, I am both a potential recipient of this orgnization's work and a strong supporter of its mission!
	2/12/2016 2:33:15 PM
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	Michele Grasso
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County is a wonderful organization because of the many dedicated volunteers who truly care for our clients. Our volunteers are the heart and soul of this agency that helps our homebound neighbors live in their own homes, for as long as possible. And, as a member of the Lehigh Valley community, I am grateful to all the nonprofits that make this community a wonderful place to live. Staff, volunteers, individual donors, foundation, business and government partners, the United Way and other supporters. <3
	2/12/2016 2:25:16 PM
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	Matilde Garcia
	I like Hispanic Senior Center of the Lehigh Valley. My mother went there. They have motivating activities for Seniors and Latino food. They also maintain a food pantry. Most people who go there have some need in their elder age. They provide support for the Latino community of the area.
	2/12/2016 2:19:02 PM
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	Anne Cooper
	I am a Guidance Counselor at a local Lehigh Valley Middle School and the organization that has made a positive impact on my school community is The Center for Humanistic Change. We have partnered with the CHC to bring in a program called Project Success to our school. For this program, a Mentor from the CHC meets weekly with at-risk students to talk about coping skills and peer pressure, and to guide them in making positive choices in their lives. I am the only Guidance Counselor at my school and I know that these students would not get the amount of extra support they need without this program. The CHC has come to our school to present topics to parents during evening parent workshops and has been present at many of our events offering information to our parents. Additionally, the CHC was there to help us talk with students and parents when we had a tragedy happen where we lost one of our students. For these reasons, I am very grateful to the CHC and the caring individuals who have provided these programs to our students, parents and our community.
	2/12/2016 12:52:16 PM
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	Amanda
	Lehigh Valley Children's Centers. My son started at LVCC 4 years ago. He was my first and I was overwhelmed with being a new mom. The staff at LVCC South Mtn, especially in the baby room, helped me so much as well as providing a safe, wonderful space for my son! He loves daycare and enjoys going every day. I love the curriculum his program has and how much the staff knows and cares about him - it is a true community. My daughter will be entering LVCC in a few weeks and I know she is in loving, capable hands.
	2/12/2016 12:10:12 PM
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	Jamie Sterner
	Lehigh Valley Children's Center is one of my favorite non-profit's. They by far are the best child care center that I know of. They have wonderful teachers and a very nice clean safe and fun environment for my children to be while I'm at work. My son went to LVCC for 5+years and now my daughter has attended for the past 3 years. The current Director at the Union site is wonderful and so helpful and her team is just the same. They go out of there way to help you in any situation and they work with you and your child to provide the best care possible. I would always recommend the Union site child care center. I do not have to worry about my child while in their care which makes it so nice to be able to go to work and have that peace of mind! THANK YOU LVCC-Union!! Keep up the great work!
	2/12/2016 12:02:53 PM
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	Judy Haney
	I love Lehigh Valley Children's Centers for all the help, support and care they have shown my daughter. They have helped her develop great language and social skills and have been a HUGE help in potty training. I want to Thank all of the teachers there!
	2/12/2016 11:56:58 AM
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	Molly Driscoll
	Phoebe Ministries is the area non-profit closest to my heart. Phoebe provides compassionate care to older adults through services ranging from independent living to rehabilitation therapy to skilled care for individuals with dementia. No matter the level of care there is a commitment to helping residents live life to the fullest!
	2/12/2016 11:47:01 AM
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	Carrilee
	As an avid book reader, I love The Literacy Center! Being able to read not only opens doors for better employment opportunities and increases a person's self confidence, but also throws open the doors of imagination! I know that after a hard day, curling up and losing myself in a good book is the best therapy. Books can inspire people to not only reach for their dreams, but also show them ways to obtain them. Reading is a fundamental skill that everyone should be granted the opportunity to master!
	2/12/2016 11:31:39 AM
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	Valorie Hinkle
	Truth For Women. They lead a fearless mission to eliminate sex trafficking in the Lehigh Valley. They run a home for women who want to have a second chance at life and come out of sex trafficking. They offer hope in the best way possible with the gospel. I love to shop at My Sister's Closet a resale boutique in Bethlehem and Easton. Every time I find a great deal on a pair of shoes, jacket, dress, pants, scarf or jewelry I know I am supporting a great cause. Truth For Women also conducts seminars and bible studies for women on a variety of topics, and run a mentor program to support women during a tough time.
	2/12/2016 11:13:52 AM
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	Marie Demarais
	Delaware Valley Chapter Alzheimer’s Association – Lehigh Valley Branch The Alzheimer's Association offers invaluable information and support for living with Alzheimer’s and their families. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can be devastating; my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease over 7 years ago, and it has been a long, difficult journey. To watch someone you love go away bit by bit is incredibly painful and can be emotionally exhausting. The Alzheimer’s Association offers educational programs for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, their families, caregiver’s and healthcare professionals as well as the general public. They also offer care consultations, support groups and a 24-hour helpline, which can be a lifesaver for those dealing with this disease.
	2/12/2016 11:11:37 AM
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	Drew and Barb
	Our favorite nonprofit in the Lehigh Valley is Meals on Wheels. We have been volunteers for almost 9 years. We have met such wonderful people over these years. Forgotten people. People who have no relatives near by. People who just need those nutritious meals provided for them due to circumstances of age or illness. We come home after delivering meals and we feel good in our hearts. Meals on Wheels just had their 45th anniversary. It's a great organization! It is made up of dedicated volunteers who show up each week to deliver meals, to check on the clients and to show a smile that means they care.
	2/12/2016 10:58:08 AM
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	Carol Chonski
	I've supported the Lustgarten Foundation for seven years after my family was impacted by the diagnosis of Pancreatic cancer. They fund research that works toward finding a cure for this devastating disease. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women, but because of its insidious nature, it is rarely diagnosed early. The foundation itself is supported by Cablevision, which ensures that 100% of every donation goes directly toward pancreatic cancer research.
	2/12/2016 10:53:52 AM
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	Jeffrey Minnich
	Lehigh County grocery on Wheels program some of the best volunteers and clients on the planet....
	2/12/2016 10:47:09 AM
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	Pamela Lewis
	I love our non-profit agency, New Bethany Ministries because all of the staff are committed to the mission of serving others in need. We all go out of our way to make sure the needs of the less unfortunate our met. That is a symbol of love; the people we serve feel that love and our commitment. Our mission is to serve others and through a strong team and leader, we feel accomplished everyday by empowering our fellow brothers and sisters by meeting their basic needs in life.
	2/12/2016 10:30:48 AM
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	Nancy McC urry
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County is the best run organization I’ve ever encountered. Each client gets personal service, and they make it as easy as possible for volunteers by providing detailed driving directions and labeling of the food. Market on Wheels is a new program that provides personal shopping for paper products, drug store items, etc, and complements the meal delivery program. Can’t say enough about it, it is really first class.
	2/12/2016 10:24:54 AM
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	Lori Bauer
	My favorite non-profit is Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. They helped me become a survivor of domestic violence and continue to help many others every day despite budget hardships. They also work towards teaching community leaders, schools and medical personnel (among others) the importance of recognizing violence. Simply asking someone if they're safe at home can make a difference in someone's life.
	2/12/2016 9:48:25 AM
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	Meghan
	Valley Youth House! I have the privilege of volunteering with the Allentown division, and I am always amazed at the compassionate work they do for at risk and homeless children in the Lehigh Valley. Helping young people through the most difficult situations is a year-round job for Valley Youth House. Thanks to this non-profit, a child always has a home to go to.
	2/12/2016 9:10:38 AM
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	Tom Roney
	Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley is hard NOT to love. Their mission is to provide appropriate, affordable housing to those in need. It is a "hand up" not a "hand out," and the families who buy the Habitat homes have to put in many hours of sweat equity. What a great way to show their dedication - and love - for their own families and the Habitat family!
	2/12/2016 9:06:17 AM
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	Diana W
	My favorite non profit is the Boy Scouts of America. I have watched boys come together and unite to grow stronger. They learn so many skills in a variety of areas. These boys work hard to achieve Eagle status.
	2/12/2016 8:38:50 AM
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	Amy Bamford
	The VALOR Clinic Foundation is by far my favorite. They have done an incredible job of helping our homeless veterans find a place to live. The generosity to provide food, clothing, hygiene items and fellowship has been showing the community that they can help both civilians and veterans at our stand downs. Providing a hand up on the home-front and a safe place for our veterans who need help acclimating to civilian life. The VALOR Clinic Foundation allows for all to see that there are people out there that can make a difference.
	2/12/2016 8:32:59 AM
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	Donna Petterson
	Communities in Schools Lehigh Valley - they help bring after school enrichment programs to students to help them excel in a wide variety of areas. These children are our future and their work gives them different options.
	2/12/2016 8:18:49 AM
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	Donna S
	The Cat Shack is my favorite . . .they know how to take care of the animals and control situations that need help. Doing this all in a very humane way.
	2/12/2016 8:17:42 AM
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	Wanda Green
	The Lions Clubs of the Lehigh Valley. All the great things they do for the communities they serve.
	2/12/2016 8:15:53 AM
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	Robin Gray
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County is a wonderful organization. Meals on Wheels provides food and companionship to the elderly and those who are unable to take care of themselves.
	2/12/2016 7:54:30 AM
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	Tami Gehris
	My favorite non profit is EACC.. They do great work with the children, by being there for them after school, helping with homework, snacks. ETC. All those involved with this group are there for the right reasons, to help the children .
	2/12/2016 7:54:28 AM
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	Cheryl O'Rourke
	Lehigh Valley Children's Centers (LVCC) is an amazing organization that helps families all over the Lehigh Valley access High Quality Early Childhood Education. The highly educated Staff that provide a caring and loving environment look at each child as an individual to help move them to the next stage of learning. LVCC provides Pre K Counts to children at risk and scholarships to families struggling to afford childcare. LVCC is providing a safe place to children and helping parents ensure a successful start in the early years.
	2/12/2016 6:35:49 AM
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	Lori Keller
	THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OF THE lV is my favorite charity. I lost my son 8 years ago and TCF of LV were there and still are to support me and my husband. Nobody understands the loss of a child more than those who have lost themselves. This charity is made up of parents that have lost a child and they give you the strength to go on .... they teach you different ways to go through the grief and its a forever journey.
	2/12/2016 6:08:40 AM
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	Patricia Ann Aldobrandesca Feninez
	Lehigh County Special Olympics is my favorite non-profit organization for the fact that we have no paid staff or coaches, and all of our 11 sports programs held year-round are offered at no cost to the athletes. We also have an Awards Banquet, a picnic, a formal-type dance and a sports camp. There are almost 700 athletes who are part of Lehigh County Special Olympics. All of the money to support this organization comes from fundraisers, donations and contributions from organizations/businesses. We offer Alpine Skiing, Aquatics, Athletics (Track and Field), Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Golf, Gymnastics, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball. Training is the essential element of Special Olympics. Our athletes are well-prepared physically and psychologically before they enter competitions by completing the mandatory eight weeks of training prior to competing. Cross-training has become increasingly popular among our athletes and coaches. Many of our athletes compete in a different sport every season — an athlete who plays soccer in the fall often competes in basketball in the winter and plays softball in the summer. [In addition, Special Olympics Pennsylvania offers Unified Sports®, which combines approximately equal numbers of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to form sports teams for training and competition. The Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) provides comprehensive motor activity and recreational training for people with severe intellectual disabilities or multiple disabilities.] Lehigh County Special Olympics' competitions use a unique divisioning system based on age, gender, and ability. By assigning athletes to divisions commensurate with their ability, every athlete is given a reasonable chance to win. Athletes compete in competitions at the local level and also have the opportunity to go on to sectional and state-level competitions. To provide money for equipment, transportation, facilities, etc., for all of these sports programs, etc., requires a lot of volunteer work! Having been a long-time volunteer in many areas for this non-profit, I can truly say that it is so rewarding to see the athletes training, competing and having fun. [Also, the Special Olympics' Healthy Athletes program provides free screenings for the athletes such as vision, hearing, dental; and solutions to needs are offered at no costs.] We could definitely use the gift card, and I would buy something for Lehigh County Special Olympics with my card!
	2/12/2016 2:43:52 AM
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	Alyssa Rudzinski
	Peacable Kingdom is my favorite non-profit because they help care for animals that don't have a voice. They recently brought back to life a dog that was dropped off at their shelter,hopeless and run down with no where to go. They gave it all the medical treatment it needed, and the dog who was later named Annie looks unrecognizable. The work they do with all of their animals and the love they show to them is extraordinary. I commend them for all they do in our community.
	2/11/2016 9:56:20 PM
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	Donna Porter
	My favorite non profit is Miller Memorial Blood Center. I donate platelets regularly to help those who need it but it takes more than the blood and platelets that help the person who was just in an accident, or the 2yr old cancer patient. Funds are needed to test and process the blood to match to the person who needs to have emergency surgery or maybe it will be someone you love that will need it some day
	2/11/2016 9:38:27 PM
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	Claire Aylward
	Community Bike Works! A wonderful Lehigh Valley organization which provides children living in at-risk situations with meaningful work-ethic alternatives. Children initially come to Community Bike Works to get a bike. But they must "earn" the bike. They work in a team with other students, peer role models and adult mentors to refurbish a bike they chose from an inventory of donated (used or new) bikes. During their 12 week Earn-A-Bike program students are taught life skills in a positive learning environment. And before the program ends the students realize there is a safe place called Community Bike Works where they can participate in other after-school and summer programs with friends and adults who care. Community Bike Works has been serving the Lehigh Valley for the past 20 years. I learned about this organization 3 years ago and fully support and believe in its mission.
	2/11/2016 9:30:48 PM
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	Dannell MacIlwraith
	Healing Through The Arts has been placing art in hospitals, clinics, rehabs, other health facilities of 5 years — they collect high school and college artwork to participate in a juried art exhibit. The artwork is beautiful and not only do the patients benefit from handmade, beautiful art, but the students love participating in art shows and winning prizes! This nonprofit is so close to my heart from having my father in the hospital for years — inspiring art is important for patients and visitors.
	2/11/2016 9:11:19 PM
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	Theresa Sanders
	Special Olympics of the Lehigh Valley can melt many hearts! Look at their Polar Plunge in February. A frozen atmosphere melts into warm hearts as plungers raise money for athletes with special needs. This organization works to ensure all their athletes wear a heart felt smile every day. I am proud to support this group throughout the year! They volunteer their time on a daily basis to involve individuals with special needs within the community with: skiing,bocce,Valentine dance,track and field,bowling and swimming to name a few events. I am honored and humbled to support this wonderful organization.
	2/11/2016 8:31:57 PM
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	Diane Joy Irish
	I love Family Promise of Lehigh County and their comprehensive program for helping homeless children and their families. Family Promise provides a way for community members of all ages and abilities to support and assist homeless families as they work toward obtaining affordable and sustainable housing.
	2/11/2016 6:42:41 PM
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	Sandy Terp
	Folk on Foul Rift because they support local musicians by hosting multiple events throughout the year.
	2/11/2016 6:41:46 PM
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	D J Rotherforth
	I support the Minsi Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America. They have a dedicated professional staff and a huge cadre of trained volunteer adult support. For a seemingly small investment, they can reach any Lehigh Valley youth age 7-21 with a program of support and development which helps to build a better future for all of us.
	2/11/2016 6:25:48 PM
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	Karyn Goldner
	My favorite non profit in the Lehigh Valley is Turning Point, which offers so much aid to women and families in violent situations. Some of these families have no where else to turn.
	2/11/2016 5:44:52 PM
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	Rose Lamaestra
	Meals on Wheels - I love seeing the smiling faces of the clients when you bring them a hot meal and ask how they are doing. For some, the Meals on Wheels volunteer is the only person they see in a day's time. Some love to share their stories and tell you how you remind them of someone they know. It is a wonderful feeling for giving a few hours of your time.
	2/11/2016 5:40:36 PM
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	Eva Seibert
	I have a soft spot in my heart for VIA of the Lehigh Valley ( what used to be United Cerebral Palsy, or UCP) because my youngest son Steven used to be a client there and received helpful services from many wonderful people. Although he is gone, I will always remember how caring the staff was and how VIA continues to support some of the most deserving in our community.
	2/11/2016 5:31:07 PM
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	Kim
	Wow! So many great organizations. How to decide? I would vote for Miller Keystone Blood Center. As a routine platelet donor with over 25 gallons, I donate for all of those who need.
	2/11/2016 4:46:19 PM
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	Shawn Deiter
	My life would be much more difficult without Lehigh Valley Children's Centers (LVCC) as my parenting partner. LVCC has been instrumental in keeping Lehigh Valley families working for the last 46 years by providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. By LVCC working collectively with many community partners and supporters, my child has been able to meet children's authors; experiment with fun, hands-on activities; and explore interesting places on field trips at no additional charge to us. And with LVCC's scholarship assistance and Pre-K Counts, all families have the opportunity for their children to have these positive early learning experiences.
	2/11/2016 4:40:17 PM
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	Terry Brady Hind
	I love meals on wheels. Since my dad has not accepted that he needs to move in assissted living yet, we know outside of what our family provides for him he is getting good meal delivered plus a visit and someone checking in on him. Otherwise he would be eating pizza on those days and we can't run there every day to look in on him.
	2/11/2016 4:37:38 PM
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	Kristen
	My favorite nonprofit is valley youth house. They support the most vulnerable youth and their families. By helping them create a more safe and secure future, they are compassionately empowering an underserved population who is very often overlooked.
	2/11/2016 4:18:26 PM
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	Stephen Stoddard
	Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley is my favorite non-profit! Not only do they provide shelter for those most in need within our community, but they instill the foundations for breaking the cycle of poverty, promote economic development, revitalize homes and properties, and help strengthen community connections. The mission, vision, staff, volunteers, and Partner Families are what make this organization so unique and gift to the Lehigh Valley.
	2/11/2016 3:45:14 PM
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	Samantha Brown
	My Valentines this year are all of the amazing 1st graders I get to work with at Roosevelt Elementary School! My favorite non-profit is America Reads at Muhlenberg College--through the organization tutors get to work with children to get their reading level higher. It's much more difficult to catch up in reading after third grade, so it's really important to teach the kids as soon as possible--and so many of the kids have already proven to me how and capable they are of success. This past year I've already made so many amazing friends who mean the world to me in that classroom, and I'd love to see them get a great Valentine's Day Present.
	2/11/2016 3:36:29 PM
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	Irene D
	I like the Allentown Rescue Mission because they help men who have no where else to turn and help them turn their lives around. They help with their addictions and show them Christ's way of love and forgiveness. They not only restore men, but families also. Men are able to get back their dignity with jobs and freedom from addictions.
	2/11/2016 3:35:06 PM
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	Robin Kulesa
	Habitat for Humanity Lehigh Valley - This amazing organization helps hard working families have an opportunity to own a home and provide their families with safe affordable housing. These families are able to realize their dreams and better their lives and the lives of their children. This organization also has neighborhood revitalization programs that help homeowners (not only Habitat homes) make repairs and improve the living conditions in their neighborhoods in the Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem areas. There are so many programs, implemented by staff and volunteers that help the communities in the Lehigh Valley - including Brush With Kindness and many others! Its about community, building relationships, and making the areas in which we live a better place to raise a family.
	2/11/2016 3:34:49 PM
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	Camille Urbano
	I love HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY because I can serve my local community and empower our families by providing them safe and affordable housing. I have been working for HFHLV for 4.5 months now and I wake up every morning excited to go to work because I know I am making a difference and helping those deserving families. We also could not serve our mission without the help of our wonderful and hardworking dedicated volunteers! They are the heart of our organization.
	2/11/2016 3:27:04 PM
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	Patricia Knopf
	My favorite nonprofit is the Girl Scouts. They help to build better leaders and empower girls to grow up to be strong women.
	2/11/2016 3:25:45 PM
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	Steve Gergar
	My favorite non-profit organization is Miller-Keystone Blood Center. I believe that their mission to save lives through collecting and providing blood to our community hospitals is critically important in saving lives in our community.
	2/11/2016 3:21:16 PM
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	Cheryl O'Rourke
	Unconditional Child Care is an amazing company. I have worked hand in hand with them for over two years . The services they provide families at not cost are amazing. They look at the whole child while helping the family understand what drives their child. Each family is unique and Unconditional Child Care respects that. They look for innovative ways to help a child realize their potential in the early childhood setting and beyond. Unconditional partners outside community services and brings opportunities to families that have children struggling in the education setting. Without these services the children I have been fortunate enough work partner for have grown learned and adapted well to the expectations of learning.
	2/11/2016 3:06:09 PM
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	Bridget Blitz
	Meals-on-Wheels! Our palliative care patients often cannot get out to the store or stand to cook so what a wonderful service that brings food right to their homes.
	2/11/2016 3:03:33 PM
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	Pamela Morris
	I love to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley. What other way can you make more of an impact on a child's life than by being a Big brother or Big Sister to them!
	2/11/2016 3:00:47 PM
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	Benjamin Henry
	Valley Youth House is my favorite nonprofit in LV! Their staff are so caring for the youth and families and make sure that every client is empowered. They are focused on outcomes, not problems, and that is so important. Thanks VYH!
	2/11/2016 2:59:16 PM
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	Em
	I <3 Valley Youth House! Each year they empower thousands of homeless, abused, foster, and vulnerable children, youth, and families to build a solid foundation in their lives. Their staff, like their clients, are responsive to the needs of their clients in the most inclusive and collaborative ways! Valley Youth House is resilient – from the youth and families that walk through its doors, to the staff members and volunteers who work tirelessly to support them, no matter what. It is this culture of strength that allows for VYH clients to thrive! VYH is in my heart now and all year long!
	2/11/2016 2:59:02 PM
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	Benjamin Henry
	Valley Youth House is my favorite nonprofit in LV! Their staff are so caring for the youth and families and make sure that every client is empowered. They are focused on outcomes, not problems, and that is so important. Thanks VYH!
	2/11/2016 2:59:02 PM
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	Jessica Dentith
	Valley Youth House! This organization has gone above and beyond to help our local youth, guiding individuals towards a brighter, successful future. It truly is a pleasure to be a part of their organization - very humbling!!
	2/11/2016 2:48:28 PM
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	Kate
	New Bethany Ministries is the charity closest to my heart as I am so proud of its community of compassion, respect, and care. New Bethany's clients, staff, volunteers, and community partners build a family for those in need throughout the Lehigh Valley, attending to immediate and long-term needs alike. At New Bethany, self-sufficient futures are made possible.
	2/11/2016 2:38:53 PM
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	Bruce Eames
	Big Brothers Big Sisters Lehigh Valley is an organization that I love and feel very close to and have for the past 20 years. As a former Big for 11 years, past Board Chair, current Board Secretary & Fund Development Chair and now currently a Big in one of our school based programs, I truly believe that this is the best way to one-on-mentor at risk kids in the Lehigh Valley. I have personally seen the results of the efforts put forth by our Volunteers over the years and the great path that the Littles have taken as a result of the Program. I would encourage any Adult or High School Big to participate and help these kids to become strong citizens of the Valley and beyond. I can't think of a better use of ones time than to guide the future of our young residents. Someday they will be the ones to "pay it forward"
	2/11/2016 2:35:09 PM
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	Betsy
	Child Care Information Services because the staff work hard and care about the families they serve and because the programs make a real difference in the lives of children and families in the Lehigh Valley.
	2/11/2016 2:25:15 PM
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	Christine Groft
	The Da Vinci Science Center is my favorite non profit as they provide such a fun learning environment for children and the child in all of us! Fun, hands on science for all ages!
	2/11/2016 2:06:13 PM
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	Kristen Smith
	My favorite charity in the Valley is Dream Come True of Lehigh Valley. They help so many children with terminal illnesses fulfill their dreams and find happiness. There is no better feeling in this world than being able to make a child smile!
	2/11/2016 1:53:33 PM
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	Lisa M. Oldt
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County - their service gives individuals the opportunity to live independently in their homes. The volunteers are delivering nutritious meals, a smile, and a conversation that brightens their day and gives them something to look forward to for tomorrow. They give peace of mind to the families that their loved ones are being checked on each weekday.
	2/11/2016 1:50:20 PM
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	Lindsay Fly
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County is my favorite LV Non Profit because of all the LOVE that this agency provides. L- little things that the agency does to make their clients smile; like birthday cards and holiday gifts O- outstanding relationships with local companies V- volunteers who care about the clients and their well being E- extraordinary impact on the lives of seniors and adults with disabilities
	2/11/2016 1:45:33 PM
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	Pat DeGinto
	Community Services for Children gets my vote because no one has done more to impact the community in the Lehigh Valley the way they have. Through the programs that they offer, Head Start, Early Head Start, Pre K Counts, Keystone Kids, The Newton, Keystone Stars, CCIS of the Lehigh County.
	2/11/2016 1:42:22 PM
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	Ann Marie Surovy
	Da Vinci Science Center!! Bringing science to life and lives to science for thousands of children every year through fun, creative and innovative programming. Investing in the next generation of scientists, inventors and our future workforce.
	2/11/2016 1:39:44 PM
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	Anne Walker
	I love Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Bethlehem! Can you imagine preparing a full 3 course meal for 100-150 people in need, five days a week, for 30 years? It's amazing! It's also fun to volunteer there, chopping vegetables, washing dishes, and following orders from the daily chef. The diners are always very appreciative - our community should be, too.
	2/11/2016 1:38:57 PM
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	Sheri Bollinger
	My favorite not-profit in the LV is FURR (Feline Urban Rescue and Rehab) because of the tireless efforts of this organization's volunteers to help rescue animals and find their forever homes, as well as educate others how they can help in the cause. They truly believe while saving one cat may not change the world, it changes the world for that one cat.
	2/11/2016 1:34:39 PM
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	Nick Mittica
	Community Bike Works is my favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit! I love this program for the meaningful impact it has had on the life of many children in the past 20 years. The organization has various programs that teach life lessons such as work ethic, respect, healthy living and accountability. Children LOVE to go to Community Bike Works and participate in everything it has to offer. I've personally been involved with CBW since 1999 and I can honestly say it has never been more vibrant than it is today!
	2/11/2016 1:34:10 PM
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	Diane
	Valley Youth House has been such a valuable resource in our community for over 30 years. Everyone should have a safe place to live and the opportunity for success. Valley Youth House provides support and a help up for so many of the youth and families throughout the Lehigh Valley.
	2/11/2016 1:26:59 PM
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	Joel Cook
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County. Well run organization that provides a tremendous basic service to the home bound by delivering hot and cold meals and helping them continue to live in their own home for as long as they can. Not to mention the caring and smiling faces of the delivery volunteers that check in on them each day. Saves the individual and the government money too! What a great service!
	2/11/2016 1:26:07 PM
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	Lori N
	My favorite non profit is Cancer support of the Lehigh Valley. This non profit agency supports local families facing cancer. For me it's personal, I know first hand what it's like to watch someone you love be an amazing warrior never backing down, staring cancer in the face, determined to beat it. Unfortunately, I watched that same person fight til the very end and was blessed to hold him in my arms as he took his last breath. Cancer support of the Lehigh Valley offers programs for both the patient and the families which is soo needed. Sometimes all you need is a little extra support, knowing someone cares to get through another day!!
	2/11/2016 1:23:26 PM
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	Andrea Nichols
	I love Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network! Not only do they provide cutting-edge treatment for those with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses but continue to provide high quality compassionate care that the organization started with over 100 years ago. They help community members of the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas restore their function and independence so they can live happy and fulfilling lives!
	2/11/2016 1:20:26 PM
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	Gwen H
	I love to support Pink Pumpkins because they financially support individuals who must decide between feeding their families and buying the drugs that will help them beat cancer.
	2/11/2016 1:17:48 PM
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	Tricia Wieder
	Lehigh Valley Hospital Pediatric Unit is dear to my heart because my son, Zachary, spent most of his first two years of life in and out of the hospital due to a variety of health issues. The doctor's and nurses always treated us with respect, were very caring, and helped us through some very difficult time.
	2/11/2016 1:17:23 PM
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	Karen Petrasovits
	My favorite non-profit is Forgotten Felines and Fidos. They provide a safe haven for threatened, abused, and/or homeless animals until they are adopted, or shelter them for the rest of their lives. Besides food, water, and shelter, they provide medical care for the sick and injured, spaying & neutering for adults and a nurturing environment for all. I adopted my cat, Columbus, from this organization.
	2/11/2016 1:17:11 PM
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	John Keim
	My favorite United Way charity is Boy Scouts of America. I have personally seen the transformation of several dozen young boys into young adults. Opportunities abound between hands on learning, leadership and networking.
	2/11/2016 1:15:16 PM
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	Debra Lamb
	I love to support Lehigh Valley Children's Centers! It's the organization that gave my children a GREAT start years ago and continues to provide outstanding early education and child care services today.
	2/11/2016 1:09:53 PM
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	Lisa Luciano
	Meals on Wheels Lehigh County - I love delivering and seeing the clients. The staff and volunteers do important work to keep people in their houses and living independently longer. It is a wonderful organization!
	2/11/2016 1:09:27 PM
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	Josh
	Big Brothers Big Sisters of the LV! A wonderful non-profit that has helped so many youth in both the mentor and mentee role. The programs continue to expand and leave such a positive impact on all that are involved! Support BBBS!
	2/11/2016 1:07:48 PM
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	Dawn Rasmussen
	Lauren's Hope Foundation Little can be more traumatic for a parent than a child with a brain injury and the subsequent consequences thereafter. Lauren's hope provides support for children with brain injuries and their parents through many social support systems such as equine therapy. They are sending a message of love and hope in memory of Lauren.
	2/11/2016 1:07:42 PM
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	Randy Boone
	I love Meals on Wheels. It's such a great service for people, both physiologically and psychologically. All too often our elders and folks who can't get out get overlooked.
	2/11/2016 12:50:24 PM
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	Joanne G.
	Family Connection of Easton, Inc. is a small yet amazing organization that truly demonstrates its passion for the work they do.
	2/11/2016 12:37:40 PM
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	Nirav Shah
	My Favourite charity is the LV children center . I am what I am today because of access to good education. Therefore, I want to contribute to this charity which can provide such access to all children of the society.
	2/11/2016 12:34:33 PM
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	John Schutt
	My 'vote' is for the Salvation Army Children's Services on Allentown Drive. A wonderful group of people focused on children and families. They will always hold an important place for my family as they helped us with the adoption of our son. But on a larger scale, they support kids, foster/adoptive parents, and also the birth parents all around the valley every day. They have a passion for what they do, and I can only guess at the tight budget they do it with. Without a doubt, they make the Lehigh Valley a better place to live!
	2/11/2016 12:33:45 PM
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	Kristn Dorney
	There are many wonderful non profit agencies out there, but I do have two of them Meals on Wheels and Peaceable Kingdom.
	2/11/2016 12:33:36 PM
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	Debbie Kocher
	My favorite non-profit is Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County. I am proud to say that I experience first-hand the effect it has on home-bound seniors - I work at Meals on Wheels. Every day I hear of the gratefulness of our clients because the service helps them remain in their home. .... what a joy that is! They love our volunteers also who brighten the day with their visit.
	2/11/2016 12:31:34 PM
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	Angela De Angelo
	Mary's Shelter is an organization that helps young women when they are experiencing a life altering situation. Most of the time these young women are alienated from family due to their pregnancy. Mary's shelter embraces these young women and helps them to manage this time in their life. They will provide shelter, education and assist these young women in learning the special joy of nuturing a precious infant that has come into their lives.
	2/11/2016 12:30:15 PM
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	Laura Zaharakis
	My United Way charity of choice is Community Bike Works in Allentown. I love it because it enhances the lives of at-risk youth through mentorship and provides a place filled with people who care and help. The word and meaning of COMMUNITY is apparent in all programs - from the college student volunteers learning to give back and become engaged, from the staff that helps the CBW youth build a community of caring, respect and fun among each other, from the adult mentors who build relationships and strengthen the resiliency of their kids, to the program providing educational bike safety programs for schools. The community created at CBW is one that helps kids develop grit and in turn those kids become people capable of giving back to others and their community through job skills, cooperation, and citizenship.
	2/11/2016 12:29:43 PM
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	Laura Haffner
	I LOVE supporting Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley. The impact the organization has made by providing valuable mentoring to children in our community continues to be astounding. Being able to provide any contributions of time and talent are most certainly put to exceptional use to provide caring support and guidance to those who need it most. The real life difference that has been made in BOTH the lives of the littles as well as the bigs is tremendously heartwarming to me.
	2/11/2016 12:29:42 PM
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	Diane Dimitroff
	I love the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters. They provide such a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in a child's life and for you to grow as an adult at the same time.
	2/11/2016 12:26:51 PM
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	BRENDA
	My favorite local non profit is the Second Harvest Food Bank. No individual or family should ever have to go hungry in our local area or this country. Nutrition affects so much more than just discomfort from hunger pains-it affects mental & physical health, school performance, job performance, alertness while driving or doing other tasks, etc.
	2/11/2016 12:26:43 PM
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	Julie Profilet-Saucier
	Meals on Wheels Lehigh County continues to be my charity of choice in the Lehigh Valley. I have delivered meals and Christmas trees to the clients of MOWLC and their faces, conversation and hugs to us as we sit and visit proves the importance of this organization in the community. Not only is MOWLC allowing individuals to live independently in their homes but the organization and the volunteers are providing nutritious meals, a smile, a hug and a conversation that brightens their day and gives them something to look forward to for tomorrow. It's helps those who have time on their hands to give back to the community as well. It's a wonder give, give, and hug organization for ALL!
	2/11/2016 12:24:01 PM
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	Bill Andress
	Pink Heals, Lehigh Valley Chapter is my favorite non-profit in the Lehigh Valley. Using their retired fire truck, painted pink, they honor all women and the health struggles that they face. Pink is for all women, not just one cause. They have supported victims of domestic abuse, multiple sclerosis, ALS, as well as cancers, including breast cancer. They are a 100% volunteer, 100% non profit helping to raise awareness and supporting women throughout the region. My second choice is the Salvation Army. They are a grassroots support agency that REALLY helps the people that they intent to help. Their national CEO only earns $13,000 each year! The donations really do go to the people on the "street" and change lives.
	2/11/2016 12:14:06 PM
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	Ann Duerst
	My chose of a non profit is Mosser Village Family Center. They service over 200 families in the only food and clothing bank on the East side of Allentown. They also do an after school program for students in 3 schools.
	2/11/2016 12:07:25 PM
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	John Satunas
	I'm think Lehigh Valley Heath Network, non profit organization/hospital saved so many lives, provides so many jobs and has an educational relations to prepare future doctors. This organization support many of the other organization in the valley.
	2/11/2016 12:05:38 PM
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	Pat DallaPiazza
	The Last Chance Ranch…that helps abused and malnourished horses.
	2/11/2016 12:05:15 PM
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	Victoria
	Peaceable Kingdom is a great local non profit organization in the Lehigh Valley. They support many animals that do not have a voice of their own, as well as providing affordable care options to those pet owners with big hearts!
	2/11/2016 12:05:14 PM
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	Mary Rose Reis
	Tuning Point is the United Way Charity of my choice. Tuning Point is an organization that assist women of all ages, all profession and their children if needed from Domestic Violence whether it is Physical or Mental Abuse. They assist with counseling, a safe secure place to stay if needed while assuring them they are not to be blamed for the abuse they have been subject too. They assist them with building their confidence and love for themselves. They are a great strength to the community daily and I am sure they have saved many lives from violence that may of turned fatal.
	2/11/2016 12:05:01 PM
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	Karen Korpics
	My favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit is the Center for Humanistic Change. As a prevention provider, CHC works with everyone to help promote the benefits of healthy choices and to build coping skills and resiliency to help all people to live healthy, strong, productive lives. CHC teaches people skills to help stop bullying, to resist drug and alcohol use and to handle stress in good ways. By raising awareness of the dangers of drug and alcohol use CHC helps to make our community a safer healthier place for all.
	2/11/2016 12:04:53 PM
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	Krista Anthony
	United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley means a lot to me because positive change in all areas at home has a ripple affect towards changing the world! Lives are improved, changed, SAVED. We are all in this together. Love rules the world. United we stand!!! "Those who bless others will be abundantly blessed themselves; those who help others are helped" -Proverbs 11:25
	2/11/2016 12:02:28 PM
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	Warren Gericke
	Lehigh Valley Children Centers (LVCC) is my favorite charity. Providing Preschool educational programs especially to those struggling families is amazing. Qualified teachers providing educational services to help our future generations. This is only one of several outstanding programs LVCC does.
	2/11/2016 12:00:29 PM
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	Bernadette Berry, Allentown Housing Athority
	I LOVE the North. Cnty. Meals on Wheels! They provide my mother who has some dementia and my brother who is handicapped with wonderful meals 5 days a week. Now that they have enough in their budget, they do not charge them the minimal fee they were paying. So, I am paying them back for their wonderful meals by donating my United Way to them. Can I get a Hurrahh for Meals on Wheels!
	2/11/2016 11:59:54 AM
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	Michelle Motsko
	My favorite non-profit charity is Meals On Wheels of Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Are you aware that many elderly are isolated and their only socialization is with their pet? Many seniors go hungry so they can feed their dog or cat. I recently learned that Meals on Wheels can evaluate clients for assisting them to not only provide meals to the elderly, but to provide for their pet too so the elderly person does not go hungry. It is definitely a win-win solution and helps keep the bond between the senior and their pet alive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
	2/11/2016 11:58:25 AM
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	Jim Emerick
	I have two favorite non-profits supported by the UW in the Lehigh Valley and they are Meals on Wheels of the Lehigh Valley and Teen Works. If I have to narrow it down to just one, I will promote Meals on Wheels of the Lehigh Valley. They are my top choice, because they are top choice when it comes to supporting the elderly. This organization is a life safer in many ways and the most obvious is the food they provide on a daily basis to those who probably would not be able to eat when hungry. Perhaps more important than this is the safety and security this service provides just by making a daily contact with those they serve. Sometimes they are the only contact for the elderly living alone and can be the first to recognize if there is a concern or problem with the elderly person and can contact help for that person. I can personally tell you that this provides peace for the family knowing that their loved one has food and someone looking out for them. So the cost if any is minimal for what is provided to recipients of the Meal on Wheels program. Many of us may need this service as we get older, so I want to do my part by contributing to a great service in the Lehigh Valley by promoting its' worth to the community and to help sustain its' longevity as a huge benefit to our community.
	2/11/2016 11:58:24 AM
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	Scott Griesemer
	I am a volunteer with Dream Come True. Dream Come True has been serving eligible children of the greater Lehigh Valley area for over 30 years and over 1150 dream requests from special children who are dealing with a very serious, chronic or life-threatening diagnosis. Hard to beat making a child happy with a special dream, like Disneyworld or such. These children have wonderful memories for a lifetime.
	2/11/2016 11:56:07 AM
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	Karen Haberern
	Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County helps seniors and adults with disabilities live nourished lives in their own homes. Volunteers deliver nutritious meals and provide a friendly visit and wellbeing check to homebound adults who would most likely be hungry and lonely without this service. I love Meals on Wheels and volunteer my time in the office.
	2/11/2016 11:55:21 AM
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	Bridgette Troy
	Meals on wheels. They provide nutrition to our elderly who are unable to easily get/make meals. It ensures they do not go hungry.
	2/11/2016 11:53:33 AM
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	Andrea
	Lehigh Valley Children's Centers! They have locations all over the Lehigh Valley and have provided high quality early education and child care since the 1970s. I can not stress enough the importance of this organization to the children and parents of this community. They are truly near and dear to my heart.
	2/11/2016 11:52:02 AM
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	Allison Hengst
	America On Wheels Museum is my favorite non-profit. The museum is a place where everyone can gather to learn, have fun and celebrate first hand America’s love affair with cars, trucks, motorcycles and bicycles. This is a unique museum and we have one right here in Allentown!
	2/11/2016 11:51:57 AM
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	Jenn Pags
	The Junior League of the Lehigh Valley. A group of dedicated & motivated women making our community better while empowering themselves.
	2/11/2016 11:51:51 AM
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	Gloria Wallery
	I support TeenWorks. It's several years old now and has been growing with excitement for teens to join. Teens from different high schools get to delegate where the funds go to help the community. For example an Eagle Scout will request funds for his project to build a patio around a flagpole. He will come with plans, costs and volunteers to complete it. It benefits the community to come and sit and be proud of the USA flag. Another project students in Allentown helped plow snow for the elderly. They requested snow plows and shovels. A committee "Snow Angels" was formed to do this project. Many of the teens in this organization go onto college and become future leaders. They have an advisory board to help them too. It's a win/win organization for all in TeenWorks and the United Way.
	2/11/2016 11:49:41 AM
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	Sigourney Stelma
	The Cat Shack (Trexlertown, PA) is my favorite non profit! They are a no-kill, non-profit, 501(c)3 tax-exempt cat rescue organization. They attempt to find permanent homes for stray and unwanted cats and kittens. Their mission is to help reduce the unnecessary euthanasia of adoptable cats, to reduce the cruelty to and neglect of cats and to educate the general public in cat related issues. The volunteers are some of the greatest people I have ever met in my life. They go out of their way to save cats. It's truly beautiful.
	2/11/2016 11:49:02 AM
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	Kristen
	Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley-BBBS serves children facing adversity in a School Based model or within the community pairing them with mentors who help to better their lives. The best part of BBBS is that this relationship is not one sided; the child is not the only one walking away a better person but so is the mentor. We have seen children who are headed down the wrong path turn completely around due to the support and friendship of someone else who comes into their life as a stranger and becomes so much more!
	2/11/2016 11:48:59 AM
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	Veronica Blue
	My favorite is Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. Providing support to women, children, and men who have been abused is an incredible service. And they do it without thinking about the ramifications. Abuse of individuals ... especially children ... is just inconceivable. This organization deserves alot of recognition.
	2/11/2016 11:48:53 AM
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	Carol Saeger
	My favorite charity of choice would be Equi-librium because of their outstanding equine program. I am truly humbled by the outpouring volunteerism that my fellow Just Born associates provide on a continuous bi-annual basis. Because Equi-librium provides a state of the art therapeutic program it brings a rewarding experience to so many children and adults. They are making a positive impact on the community!
	2/11/2016 11:48:42 AM
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	Audrey Walker
	My favorite non- profit is United Way of Greater Lehigh Valley, they are another way for me to share unending blessings I receive from God with others.
	2/11/2016 11:48:34 AM
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	Claudia Pankowski
	My favorite non profit is the March of Dimes because the work that this organization does saved my daughter's life. The March of Dimes team brings awareness to premature birth. Through the work and fundraising efforts, their organization has help open Neo-Natal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) throughout the country. My daughter was born at 31 weeks of gestation and she lived her first few months at a NICU in Pennsylvania. I will forever be grateful for the care provided by NICU nurses, the guidance provided by the March of Dimes about dealing with prematurity and NICUs, and the multitude of resources available through them. My daughter is now almost 6 and thriving. She would not have made it if it wasn't for the work of the March of Dimes. Your dime goes a long way!
	2/11/2016 11:47:54 AM
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	Marie Bartos
	NAMI LV (National Alliance for Mental Illness) - NAMI works with people who have Mental Health Issues to make their lives better, help them understand their illness and how to best cope. They also give support to the families of these individuals. Mental Health is a field that needs more attention and NAMI is a great advocate for people suffering with Mental Illness.
	2/11/2016 11:47:28 AM
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	Ken Zinis
	Wildlands Conservancy is my favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit. Their open-space preservation efforts and successes are valuable and permanent gifts to our community. I am also so impressed with the invaluable environmental education, and the physical outdoor experiences that they provide for thousands of youngsters, and adults, every year. Through exceptional leadership, their team of qualified and dedicated staff members, and equally-committed volunteers, they shine by inspiring current and future generations.
	2/11/2016 11:46:53 AM
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	Mary Ellen
	Center for Humanistic Change works with EVERYONE, providing people with strategies for dealing with life when things get tough. They teach people how to be kind to each other, how to handle stress, and how to say NO to drugs and alcohol.
	2/11/2016 11:46:41 AM
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	Jessica
	Purple Heart Pickup/Green Drop This charity helps those that were wounded in combat, as well as ALL veterans....it also takes lightly used clothing and household items to then turn into donations for charitable programs for veterans. (It's almost like one charity helping other charities)
	2/11/2016 11:46:30 AM
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	Vicki Pallo
	Campaign for grade level reading - K through HS investing in our children by showing them love and a love for reading. Children are an invaluable investment for a bright future.
	2/11/2016 11:46:07 AM
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	RACHEL ANDES
	My favorite united way non profit agency that I choose to support is the Girl Scouts. My daughters have been girl scouts since Kindergarten. They are in 7th & 8th grades now. The girl scouts have taught them to get involved in the community. They have learned to be leaders instead of followers. They both have true power and strength that comes from being a girl scout.
	2/11/2016 11:45:59 AM
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	Kathy Nickerson
	Lehigh Valley Hospice is my favorite charity to support because of the exceptional care the staff provides to patients during their terminal disease process. Compassion exemplified!
	2/11/2016 11:45:49 AM
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	Carol Machain
	I am the blood coordinator for Miller blood Center at my place of employment (Guardian Insurance Company) and have been for 24 years. I also volunteer at the center in the canteen. I enjoy talking with the donors and meeting new donors whenever I volunteer. The volunteer dept. and blood staff are great people to work with and are very dedicated to make sure each donor is their priority and their donations are very much appreciated. Donors save lives every time they donate. I also am on the Board for their major fundraiser which raises funds for the non profit organization. Funds raised help ensure the units of blood collected are safe for use, helps with keeping the bloodmobiles up and running for on-site drives and many other necessary expenses. I look forward to volunteering more hours once I retire in a few years.
	2/11/2016 11:45:16 AM
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	Maribel Ortiz
	Rescue mission of Allentown.
	2/11/2016 11:44:26 AM
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	Deborah Einhorn
	The Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living is my favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit because it helps people with a variety of disabilities and challenges HELP THEMSELVES to learn and grow and live independent and fulfilling lives. A majority of the LVCIL Staff and Board live with disabilities and so are modeling the behaviors they are encouraging. LVCIL's passionate commitment to serving the LV community with integrity, quality and compassion has transformed them into one of the leading CILs in the nation and they are also consulting and training other CILs in Pennsylvania and beyond.
	2/11/2016 11:44:24 AM
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	Lara Kuhns
	Community Bike Works is my favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit. Community Bike Works has been serving the Allentown community for 20 years with their flagship Earn-A-Bike program for at-risk youth and has grown over the years to also offer Earn-A-Book, Jr. Earn-A-Bike, Youth Leadership and after school homework programs. Not only do these fabulous programs give children something to do after school, but they teach children about the value of working toward a goal, earning something that is theirs to keep, and giving back to the community. The children love to come to Bike Works and spend time there - many of them come back year after year and go on to then volunteer themselves in the programs - it is a most valuable and worthwhile organization that I am proud to be involved in!
	2/11/2016 11:44:15 AM
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	Theresa Sullivan
	Allentown Rescue Mission because it helps the men to overcome addiction and teaches them to become self sufficient.
	2/11/2016 11:43:51 AM
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	Diane Wargo
	The Allentown Rescue Mission because they provide both spiritual and physical help in turning people's lives around.
	2/11/2016 11:41:02 AM
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	Frank Kessler
	Truth for Women - a great mission to help women in need who have no other resources. They are also the go to spot for my wife who loves their 2nd hand clothing selection and always finds something great there.
	2/11/2016 11:40:45 AM
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	Bobbie Butz
	My favorite Lehigh Valley non-profit is Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering. The reason is because they work hard to keep homeless men and women off the streets when they most need a roof over their head (in the winter months) when other shelters are full. The shelters are divided among several churches in the Valley and each provides these men and women what they need. A cot for the night, a hot meal for supper, most provide breakfast, some even have a clothing/shoe reserve for those who need it. They also provide bags stuffed with toothbrushes/toothpaste, washcloths, lotion, chap stick, tissues, and other miscellaneous items that the homeless make good use of. My son and I are volunteering for our 2nd season now, and sharing a rapport with these people has been a blessing for us.
	2/11/2016 11:40:39 AM
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	Diane Wilt
	I appreciate the work that New Bethany Ministries does for the homeless. Many times the homeless are the most overlooked people in our community. NBM provides food, shelter and services that help the homeless in the attempt to achieve a better quality of life.
	2/11/2016 11:40:33 AM
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	Amy Vogler
	My favorite non profit is Fountain Hill Elementary School Community School. This program is supported by the community and private industry. The community School model helps to insure that at-risk families and students have services and programs supporting academic success.
	2/11/2016 11:38:26 AM
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	Mike Bruckner
	Communities in Schools has done an incredible job with at-risk youth throughout the Valley. Many of these students have never been given a chance, and would normally drop out of high school and use millions of dollars in social services. With mentorship and CIS porograms, they are graduating at a very high rate and contributing to society. CIS is a great investment in the community.
	2/11/2016 11:38:11 AM
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	Silvia
	Valley Youth House, because they do such a awesome job in helping our young people, that society has turned there back on or deemed them as damaged goods. Valley Youth House, gives them hope and a light at the end of the tunnel for those that are willing to participate and complete the many programs that Valley Youth House offer.
	2/11/2016 11:37:33 AM
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	Daniel Egan
	Habitat for Humanity
	2/11/2016 11:35:56 AM
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	Mary Terp
	United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is the charity closest to my heart because it works with a laser focus to bring system change to our community that will raise quality of life for us all!
	2/11/2016 10:27:26 AM
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