Keystone Spirit of United Way Award

Lee Butz wins inaugural Keystone Spirit of United Way Award

In recognition of his generosity, advocacy, and commitment to improving the lives of Pennsylvania residents, Lee Butz won the inaugural Keystone Spirit of United Way Award from United Way of Pennsylvania last night.

Governor Tom Wolf presented the award to Butz at the Statewide Tocqueville Society Reception at his residence in front of more than 200 other Tocqueville Society members and United Way representatives from across the state. 

Butz, chairman of construction management firm Alvin H. Butz, Inc., is a well-respected philanthropist in the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

He and his wife Dolly have been deeply involved with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley for decades and have been members of United Way's Tocqueville Society since 1998.

“Lee Butz has a deep and profound history with United Way,” said David Lewis, President of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “He is a valued partner and philanthropic leader, and his impact can be felt throughout our community.” 

Butz also leads a successful employee campaign for Alvin H. Butz, Inc. For the past 25 years, the company has celebrated 100 percent participation in its United Way campaign.

“It’s truly amazing for every person in a company to donate,” Lewis said. “It reflects a culture of generosity and philanthropy that comes from the top down and can be felt throughout an organization. Lee Butz is the reason for this exceptional engagement.”

Through his United Way contributions, Butz started Allentown Drive, a baseball program for inner-city youth to teach them life lessons and the importance of giving back. He also supports Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley, the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, Miller Symphony Hall, the Fund to Benefit Children and Youth, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of the Lehigh Valley, Good Shepherd Home, Second Harvest Food Bank, William Allen Construction Company, West Side Mission Collaborative, the Justin Sheftel Memorial Fund, Mosser Village Family Center, and United Way’s investments.

Through his generosity and spirit of volunteerism, Butz is improving the lives of people throughout Pennsylvania.

“He just has this infectious enthusiasm for giving back,” Lewis said. “To him, it’s just the right thing to do.”