The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, a new United Way partner, is the oldest American Bach choir, giving the first complete American performances of Bach’s Mass in B Minor in 1900 and Christmas Oratorio in 1901.
Since its founding in 1898, the now-famous Choir has been attracting thousands of visitors from across the United States and beyond to the annual Bethlehem Bach Festival in Pennsylvania. The 115 dedicated volunteer singers of The Bach Choir, performing with the Bach Festival Orchestra and distinguished soloists, have received international acclaim. Programming includes 40 concerts and educational programs per year for an audience of more than 22,000. The Bel Canto Youth Chorus is The Bach Choir’s youth choir educational program under the direction of Director Kelly Rocchi. Through Bel Canto and other educational programs, The Bach Choir is training the next generation of choral singers and cultivating a life-long passion for the choral arts. Learn more at bach.org.
SELF! is a nonprofit based in Allentown that is dedicated to supporting women after incarceration and other traumatic circumstances. The nonprofit offers resources, guidance, and a safe space for women to rebuild their lives and self reliance. With help from United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Fund for Racial Justice and Equity (FRJE) grant, SELF! is working tirelessly to ensure that no woman is left behind.
SELF! stands for “strongly embracing life’s future,” and its mission is clear: no human life is disposable. SELF! offers a stable living environment through its Allentown-based transitional housing, where women receive a wide range of supportive services, from job assistance to family reunification.
“Our approach is to address the whole person,” said the co-founder of SELF! “Whether it’s providing social services, connecting with family, or securing a stable income, we want these women to know they’re supported every step of the way. We want them to feel empowered and valued because they’re an important part of our community.”
SELF!’s work is far-reaching, covering everything from basic needs to long-term stability. With the support of the FRJE grant, SELF! has been able to expand its programs, including:
Case Management Services: Upon release, SELF! connects women with a retired public assistance worker who assists them in securing essential benefits such as food stamps, medical assistance, and mental health services. This ensures their immediate needs are met, laying a foundation for long-term success.
Journal Writing Workshops: SELF! also offers workshops to help women process their thoughts and emotions. Run by a former Allentown School District teacher, these sessions have revealed instances of illiteracy and provided opportunities to teach women reading and writing skills.
Community Engagement and Education: The nonprofit actively participates in community events and partnerships. SELF! joins forces with organizations like Unidos and Operation Address the Homeless to extend its reach. These collaborations help ensure women have access to necessary resources and opportunities to give back to the community.
SELF!’s annual event is the Angel Tree Program, which provides holiday gifts to children whose parents are incarcerated. This community-driven event seeks to ensure children feel valued and loved, giving them a joyful, festive experience that many might otherwise miss. Each child receives a bag of presents, along with a message from their parent, helping maintain that essential bond between parent and child.
With the support of the FRJE grant, SELF! can continue its mission of providing vital reentry services to women and creating pathways to stable, successful futures. SELF!’s commitment to education, empowerment and community collaboration exemplifies the impact that focused reentry services can have on individuals and their families.
“When someone is incarcerated, it’s not just them who are impacted—it’s their whole family. We’re here to support that transition, one step at a time.”
SELF! is a testament to what’s possible when communities unite to uplift and empower one another. Through partnerships and programs like the FRJE grant, United Way and its community partners invest in a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
United Way awarded the following local organizations with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 through the FRJE:
Salvaggio Academy, a private elementary school founded and funded by CAI and the Salvaggio family, today announced its designation as a United Way Community School, a collaborative network of over 30 academic institutions.
With Salvaggio Academy’s comprehensive approach to education, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley recognized that the school meets and exceeds its qualifying criteria. The Community School model has a track record of enhancing academic growth, ensuring students’ and families’ basic needs are met, increasing engagement and attendance and fostering a positive school culture. Beyond these standards, Salvaggio Academy was chosen for its extracurricular programs and community partnerships that enhance the student experience. This aligns with the Community Schools initiative, which is rooted in the belief that kids’ academic success and social well-being is significantly influenced by external factors.
As a Community School, Salvaggio Academy will leverage its network connections to generate new and improved benefits for those in the surrounding area, including:
Barrier-free Access to Resources: Health services, counseling sessions and social support to both students and families, ensuring that everyone can thrive academically and personally.
Enrichment Programs: A variety of programs aimed at enhancing students’ educational experiences from after-school activities to summer learning courses.
Parent Engagement: Workshops and activities designed for parents to become more thoroughly involved in their children’s academics for stronger support structures
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a United Way Community School,” said Jessica Devlin, director of education at Salvaggio Academy. “This designation reflects our commitment to supporting not just our students, but also their families and the village it takes to offer the next generation with a thriving academic foundation. Together, we are building bridges and empowering everyone to achieve greater success.”
“Welcoming Salvaggio Academy as the first school of its kind in our Community School network is a significant milestone,” said Marci Lesko, chief executive officer at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “This partnership reflects our shared dedication to innovation and excellence in education. We are excited about the opportunities we’ll create for the Academy’s students and families.”
In addition to this designation, CAI and United Way launched the CAI United Fund to support student success, furthering Salvaggio Academy’s mission by providing additional resources to improve academic outcomes.
Over 30 of our dedicated Tocqueville Society donors and their families came together for a meaningful day of community service on October 26. Designed for families with children aged 6 and up, the day offered a unique chance to give back while spending quality time together.
Volunteers supported the Boys & Girls Club of Allentown by “Scrubbing the Club” and organizing the Teen Center, while others helped transform the Talk Read Sing spaces at Bethlehem’s Early Learning Resource Center, building furniture, cleaning and adding vibrant wall decals.
Tocqueville Make a Difference Day was a wonderful opportunity for families to experience firsthand the impact of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley partners and the importance of their work in our community. Together, they fostered connection, helped strengthen our United Way network and made meaningful impact at our local nonprofits. Thank you to everyone who participated for making a difference with us.
United Way’s nonprofit partners stand UNITED, working to address our community’s greatest challenges. We are proud to announce our new partner, Maternity Care Coalition (MCC), a community-driven nonprofit organization with a legacy of over 40 years dedicated to maternal and child health.
Serving communities in Pennsylvania and Delaware, MCC is on a mission to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, parenting families and young children, especially those impacted by racial and social inequities. MCC’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women and parenting families and enhance school readiness for children 0—3. They achieve this through direct service, advocacy, and research, in collaboration with individuals, families, providers, and communities.
MCC envisions a future where parents impacted by racial and social inequities can birth with dignity, parent with autonomy and raise babies who are healthy, growing and thriving. We are proud to welcome MCC as a partner and look forward to working together to promote maternal and child health in our communities.
Veterans face unique challenges when returning to civilian life, often including a lack of stable housing and support systems. Vet Beds, a nonprofit organization based in the Lehigh Valley, is working to change that. With the support of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Fund for Racial Justice and Equity (FRJE) grant, Vet Beds provides independent living and supportive services for veterans through rapid rehousing and case management, helping them transition to permanent housing.
The organization is committed to providing veterans with the tools and resources to regain independence and stability. Through a 12-month program, veterans receive life skills training, including financial literacy, job placement assistance and family reunification support. By collaborating with local businesses like Walmart and B. Braun, Vet Beds helps veterans find employment, allowing them to rebuild their lives.
“Our goal is to provide a stable living environment for veterans while offering the life skills and support they need to achieve permanent housing,” said Brandon Yarber, CEO of Vet Beds. “We assess their needs, provide referrals and cover their expenses until they’re able to stand on their own.”
The FRJE grant has been instrumental in helping Vet Beds expand its programs and reach more veterans in need. The grant enabled Vet Beds to walk in the Veterans Day Parade in New York City, where the organization raised awareness of its mission by distributing flyers, shirts, and hats. This event allowed Vet Beds to connect with new partners and supporters, further expanding its reach and impact.
Another critical initiative supported by the grant is its Thanksgiving Meal Program, during which 13 turkeys were provided, and over 125 people were fed. The organization also hosted a coat drive in collaboration with B. Braun, which distributed over 120 coats, scarves and gloves to veterans and others in need during the cold winter months.
Running a nonprofit comes with challenges, particularly when balancing the organization’s mission with financial sustainability. The FRJE grant provided much-needed relief, allowing the organization to cover expenses that would otherwise come out of pocket.
“The grant allowed us to continue our work without the stress of wondering how we’d pay for a next meal or next coat,” said Brandon Yarber, CEO of Vet Beds.
Looking ahead, Vet Beds plans to expand its services, including launching a jacket drive for children in need. The organization also focuses on developing a Veterans Leadership Program, where veterans who have completed the program can serve on the board and help guide future initiatives. The nonprofit aims to expand from a 12-month program to a three-year process.
Yarber has a personal connection to the struggles that veterans face, having grown up in a household with a father who was a Korean War veteran.
“My dad never talked about the war, but his experiences shaped who he was. He didn’t have access to the resources Vet Beds provides, and I want to make sure that today’s veterans don’t face the same challenges he did,” said Yarber.
Through initiatives like the FRJE grant, the United Way and its partners support organizations like Vet Beds and invest in countless veterans’ futures. By providing housing, life skills, and community support, Vet Beds empowers veterans to rebuild their lives and find lasting stability.
The United Way awarded the following local organizations with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 through the FRJE:
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance social connectedness and reduce isolation among older adults, Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley, in partnership with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley AmeriCorps program, hosted two Motown Memories events as part of their 9/11 Day of Service. These events brought together older adults in the community, celebrating Motown’s vibrant musical legacy and fostering opportunities for social engagement through food, music and interactive activities.
The first Motown Memories event was held on September 27 at the Hispanic Center in Bethlehem. The event transformed the center into a lively community hub, complete with a photo booth, craft station and a shared meal to encourage conversation and connection. The event supported our Healthy Aging efforts by promoting food access and creating a space for individuals to connect through music and shared experiences.
On October 18, the second Motown Memories gathering was held at Lehigh Valley Active Life in Allentown. This event brought together nearly 70 participants who enjoyed classic Motown hits, crafts and music-themed activities that encouraged interaction among attendees. The meal fostered a warm, inclusive environment where older adults could connect over shared interests and nostalgia. Many participants expressed interest in future events, highlighting the positive impact of these gatherings on social engagement and community connectedness.
Together, these Motown Memories events illustrate how food, music and meaningful partnerships can help reduce isolation and enhance social connection among older adults in our community.
We would like to thank the following businesses for their event support:
Lehigh Valley locations have been designated as winter warming stations for the community throughout the winter months. Warming stations are short-term emergency shelters that operate when the temperature and weather conditions become dangerously inclement. They serve in the prevention of death and injury from exposure to the elements. Many warming stations provide shelter, food and a safe place for those experiencing homelessness in our community.
For the most up-to-date listings and information on volunteering at these locations, contact PA 211 East by phone at 2-1-1 or visit pa211.org.
River Crossing YMCA – Allentown Branch Will open November 15 through April 15, 2025, from 7 p.m. – 7 a.m. daily Meals will be served every evening Address: 425 S 15th St., Allentown, PA 18102 Entrance will be on the south side of the YMCA lower parking lot. Phone: 610.351.9622
Bethlehem Emergency Shelter Will open November 1Â through April 30, 2025, from 5 p.m. – 7 a.m. Dinner will be served between 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Breakfast to go bags will be distributed as guests depart 75 E Market St., Bethlehem, PA 18018 484.379.6694
Safe Harbor Easton/Greater Shiloh Church Will open December 1 through March 31, 2025Â
Monday-Wednesday, Safe Harbor is hosting 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
536 Bushkill Drive., Easton, PA 18042
610.258.5540
Thursday and Friday, Greater Shiloh Church Chapel is hosting from 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
In a vibrant celebration of community and impact, over 100 members and guests of Women United gathered at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Allentown for an unforgettable evening. The beautiful venue was lively with energetic conversations as attendees shared in the collective spirit of philanthropy and empowerment.
Organized by United Way Women United and sponsored by Silver Sponsor Air Products with additional support from Capital Blue Cross, Fulton Bank, Lehigh Valley Health Network, King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul, LLC, PSECU Credit Union and Valley National Financial Advisors, the event honored the 2024 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year, Laurie Siebert of Valley National Financial Advisors, and showcased stories of triumph and resilience from local program graduates.
The event created opportunities for attendees to connect deeply with Women United’s mission. Several Signature Projects lined the event space with informational tables, where members and guests learned more about the impact of these programs and participate in activities such as writing inspirational notes to inspire the youth allowed participants to contribute to the uplifting atmosphere in their own meaningful ways.
During the event, Women United announced the addition of Global Hope International as their latest emerging project. Global Hope International, led by Executive Director Monica George, was presented with a $1,000 check to support their work providing free pop-up healthcare clinics in the Allentown community. These clinics will serve over 100 women and children, expanding access to vital health services and wellness resources right where they live and work. United Way’s commitment to evaluating and addressing emerging needs in the community is exemplified by this new partnership, which aligns with Women United’s mission to create positive change for women and children. Learn more about Global Hope International here.
Another highlight of the night was hearing from two remarkable women who shared their inspiring journeys. Malu, a graduate of ProJeCt of Easton Inc.’s ESL and GED classes, and Thi, a graduate of The Literacy Center’s program and now their Data & Reporting Assistant, captivated the audience with their personal stories of perseverance. Their powerful words showed not only the life-changing opportunities provided by these educational programs but also the importance of the collective impact of Women United in helping our community overcome obstacles.
The night’s centerpiece was the presentation of the 2024 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year Award to Laurie Siebert. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, Laurie shared her own journey in philanthropy, starting from her earliest experiences with giving to her current role as an advocate for Women United. Her passion and dedication to making a difference was prevalent as she extended an exciting challenge to the attendees.
“To continue this momentum, my husband, Karl, and I have issued a challenge: We will match up to $10,000 for any new members who join Women United by the end of October.” With additional matching support from Air Products, this initiative has the potential to generate up to $30,000 in new funding to address urgent community needs.”
For more information about Women United, please contact us at [email protected].
Capital Blue Cross has expanded its support to advance academic success for approximately 20,000 students across the United Way Community Schools network. Through this partnership with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Capital Blue Cross becomes the network partner for 33 Community Schools across five districts including Bethlehem Area and Easton Area school districts.
“Capital Blue Cross understands that when students have what they need to excel in school, it enhances their well-being and makes their communities stronger and healthier,” said Susan Hubley, Capital Blue Cross Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility. “Our support of United Way Community Schools enables the organization to continue to provide innovative programs that help strengthen Lehigh Valley children and families.”
Through United Way Community Schools, thousands of students gain access to the resources that they need to grow academically.
“Capital Blue Cross and United Way share a vision of a healthy, strong community. As United Way Community Schools’ network partner, Capital Blue Cross makes a direct impact both on individual students and the region’s education system as a whole. When schools have the resources that students and families need and can offer them through a coordinated approach, kids can thrive academically, socially and emotionally,” said Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.
With goals to demonstrate growth in math and literacy across every school and every grade level, Community School Coordinators activate a network of cross-sector partners to offer a range of services that aim to improve student attendance, increase family engagement and remove barriers to learning. Services include:
basic needs such as food, clothing, toiletries and school supplies;
connections to critical resources such as healthcare and housing;
academic engagement experiences such as field trips and after-school programming;
parent engagement workshops and activities; and
on-site physical, mental and behavioral health services.
In addition to directly supporting education work in schools, the partnership with Capital Blue Cross will provide funding for network-wide coordination, data collection and evaluation and communication, as well as professional development and training opportunities for Community School Coordinators and staff.
