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Crayola Donates $100,000 to United Way Nonprofit Partners

December 06, 2023
Image of donors holding oversized checks

Twenty Crayola employees selected to designate $5,000 grants to a United Way partner agency of their choice during the 4th annual Crayola United Way $100K Challenge.

EASTON, Pa. (Dec. 6, 2023) – Crayola is coloring the community with kindness in a big way this holiday season!  Twenty Crayola employees who contributed to the Company’s United Way campaign were selected to gift a $5K grant to the United Way nonprofit partner of their choice during the 4th annual Crayola United Way $100K Challenge.  The $100K Challenge was designed to encourage giving while supporting the communities where Crayolians work and reside. The employees and agencies were invited to a celebration to receive the contribution and share information about their organization’s mission.

Employees were selected by participating in the 2023 Crayola United Way Campaign, which raised over $1 million. The following United Way nonprofit partners were in attendance and received grant checks:

  • Safe Harbor of Easton, Equi-librium, Domestic Violence Service Center, Miller Keystone Blood Center, Mikayla’s Voice, American Red Cross of Pennsylvania Rivers, Third Street Alliance for Women & Children, Resilient Lehigh Valley (United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley), United Way of Northern Arkansas, Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center, Boy Scouts of America Minsi Trail Council, Vet Beds, Project of Easton, Easton Area Community Center, and The Foundation for the Bethlehem Area School District

“Miller-Keystone Blood Center saves lives. I want to contribute to that mission and help others in my community,” said Joanne Higgins, a machine operator at Crayola, when asked why she selected the nonprofit organization. 

“We’re thrilled to support United Way partner agencies in an impactful way, especially when the organizations are personally meaningful to our employees,” said Rich Wuerthele, Crayola President and CEO. “Our partnership with United Way has been integral to our company culture for decades, and we’re excited to see our community benefit from these contributions.”

“At United Way, we’re so proud to connect people to the causes that are most important to them. Thanks to the leadership team at Crayola for this creative and engaging opportunity to support the communities where Crayolians live, work and give,” said David Lewis, United Way President.

“United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is one of the highest-performing organizations of its kind in the nation and we know that when we invest in their programs and partner agencies that we are making a positive impact in our community,” said Pete Ruggiero, Crayola Chief Operating Officer. “We’re proud of the culture our employees have created, one of giving and kindness.”

To support United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, visit www.unitedwayglv.org.

Photo Credit: Marco Calderon Photography

About Crayola

Crayola LLC, based in Easton, Pa., and a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, Incorporated, is a global leader in children’s creative expression products. Born from the iconic Crayola Crayon in 1903, the Crayola brand has grown into an expansive portfolio of art tools, crafting activities, toys, and experiences, allowing children to color their world in imaginative ways. Crayola is committed to fostering a giving spirit and helping the people in our communities.

News

Chris Martin of Martin Guitar Company hosts Leadership Reception in Nazareth

December 05, 2023

Nearly 140 United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Tocqueville Society and Leadership donors gathered at the Martin Guitar Museum in Nazareth for an evening of appreciation. Special thanks to Chris Martin, Thomas Ripsam and Martin Guitar Company for opening the Factory doors for an exclusive tour, a first look at the Joan Baez Exhibit and a performance by Craig Thatcher.

    • News

    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Welcomes New Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

    November 16, 2023

    Allentown, PA – United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley welcomes Kara Mohsinger to the organization’s leadership team as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Mohsinger is a seasoned nonprofit executive who brings 20 years of experience in financial planning, management and strategic analysis to her new role.

    “Kara’s impressive background made her the perfect fit for our organization,” said David Lewis, UWGLV President. “We’re excited to welcome her to our executive team and look forward to her contributions as our United Way continues to raise and invest record-breaking funds to meet critical needs in our community.”

    Prior to joining the team at United Way, Mohsinger held several leadership positions in the finance department of a national nonprofit educational consulting firm for over 13 years. Most recently, she was the President and Chief Executive Officers of the National Museum of Industrial History.

    “United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s unparalleled commitment to aligning its resources with the needs of our community, especially when so many are in crisis, is what drew me to this role,” shared Mohsinger. “I am proud to serve alongside a dynamic, dedicated and diverse group of individuals and I look forward to being part of the great work our organization continues to do as we fulfill our mission.”

    Mohsinger is charged with overseeing United Way’s $28 million annual budget with the guidance of the Finance Committee, a volunteer team comprised of some of the brightest financial minds in the Lehigh Valley. Mohsinger also oversees the audit committee and leads the Finance department. She is responsible for endowment, capital budget acquisitions and the gift acceptance policy for United Way’s 12,000 donors.

    Mohsinger holds an M.A. from American University and credits toward an MBA at Lehigh University. She lives in Nazareth and has three daughters.

    Mohsinger assumes the role following the announcement of Debra Klocek’s retirement. Klocek has served as Vice President of Finance and Administration as well as Treasurer since 2010 and retired at the end of August after 28 years of service.

    “One of our core values as an organization is integrity. One of the reasons we have been such trusted stewards of donor’s contributions is because of Debbie. She has spent the last three decades making our organization better and stronger each and every day, and we are forever grateful for her dedication to our United Way and the community” said Marci Lesko, Chief Operating Officer at UWGLV.

    Klocek’s career with United Way began in 1995 as an Administrative Director. In 2003, Klocek was named Grants Administrator and was responsible for the management of $1 million in grant revenue which increased her knowledge of federal, state and local government policies. She was then promoted to Controller in 2005 where she directed and managed the daily financial operations of the organization.

    “The growth that United Way has seen over the last 28 years is incredible, and I am so fortunate to have led an amazing team of finance professionals,” shared Klocek. “It is my hope that the foundation that we have laid will continue to benefit those most in need for many years to come.”

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    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Welcomes New AmeriCorps Members

    November 14, 2023

    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley (UWGLV) introduces the newest cohort of AmeriCorps members.

    AmeriCorps is a national service program administered by PennSERVE (Pennsylvania’s State Service Commission), enrolling individuals in national community service positions. AmeriCorps members represent the best of America, tirelessly serving people and communities across the country. 

    UWGLV is proud to have AmeriCorps members serve in various positions to gain professional experience. Members work closely with United Way staff and assignments are based in the UWGLV office, school districts and nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.

    Ceilia Goldberg will be serving at SELF! LV as the Women’s Reentry Program Coordinator VISTA. She joined the UWGLV VISTA Program to make a positive impact on the community. She is excited to implement and engage in the reentry program with her host site. Her program benefits women in need and the diverse communities of the Lehigh Valley. Ceilia is a mom of six beautiful children, and she is part of the LGBTQ+ community and passionate to give back in every way she can.

    Maria Rubio will be serving as the Community Resource Navigator at Casa Guadalupe. She joined the UWGLV AmeriCorps Program because she would like the opportunity to work with older adults and get them connected to resources. She will be able to support people in need and help them navigate programs and services. Maria is always willing to help and assist others with anything she possibly can.

    Ivannia Diaz will be serving as the Community Resource Navigator at the Hispanic Center. She joined the UWGLV AmeriCorps Program because she knows the importance of giving back to the community and how each person can make an impact. She is excited to work with the older adult population in the community and learn from the wisdom they share. Ivannia loves Halloween and starts decorating in September and leaves them up until Thanksgiving.

    Aleighya Saunders will be serving at the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley as the Nonprofit Technical Assistance VISTA. She joined the UWGLV AmeriCorps VISTA Program because she wants to do work on a national scale and looking forward to having her skills and knowledge amplified as she gains an impactful learning experience. She is excited to live in the Lehigh Valley and give back to the community. Aleighya was part of creating the youth conference in Brooklyn where she worked with youth to empower them to be advocates for the community.

    Tracy Days will be serving as the Community Resource Navigator at Paxinosa Elementary School. She joined the UWGLV AmeriCorps Program able to learn and build relationships in the community. She is excited to see an improvement in attendance at her school. Tracy is a mom of five children and her oldest just started college and the youngest just started kindergarten.

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    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Shaun Marakovits to receive Rising Star Award at the 2023 National Philanthropy Day Awards Breakfast

    November 13, 2023

    Shaun Marakovits, Director, Workplace Engagement at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley (UWGLV), will receive the Rising Star Award at the 2023 National Philanthropy Day Awards Breakfast held by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter.

    Shaun serves as a senior leader at UWGLV with a special focus on workplace fundraising and donor engagement. Known for his energy and enthusiasm, Shaun manages and develops partnerships with local businesses and organizations to promote workplace giving campaigns, volunteerism and community engagement efforts. This is crucial in mobilizing resources and support from the corporate sector to address community needs through different types of giving. Marakovits currently works with and oversees 275+ workplace campaigns that collectively raised $22.6 million in 2022.

    “Receiving the Rising Star Award from AFP is a humbling recognition, and I am extremely grateful, ” shares Shaun. “At United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, we envision communities where every person belongs, and every person thrives—a commitment I believe very strongly in. This award serves as a reminder that our potential for positive change knows no bounds, and that our journey towards a brighter, more compassionate world has only just begun. I work with phenomenal individuals every day, and their commitment is a testament to their generosity. I’m so lucky to work alongside them; without them, I wouldn’t be accepting this award.”

    Shaun supports numerous causes and organizations around the Lehigh Valley that help support mental health, food access for children and families, education, and his continued love for the arts through Friends of Liberty Theater.

    A lifelong Lehigh Valley resident, Marakovits graduated from Liberty High School in 2006, going on to major in Mass & Interpersonal Communication from the University of Delaware, as well as minor in Human Resource Management (Bachelor of Arts, 2012). Shaun also holds a degree in Sports Management from Northampton Community College (Associates of Arts, 2008).

    This event, presented by Air Products, celebrates an amazing group of individuals and organizations who are shining examples of the incredible spirit of philanthropy that exists here in the Greater Lehigh Valley.

    Please join us in congratulating Shaun on this honor.

    Other award recipients honored during the event:

    2023 National Philanthropy Day Honorees

    Lifetime Achievement Award
    Barry & Marcy Dobil

    Outstanding Philanthropists
    The Haight Family

    Outstanding Foundation
    Lehigh Valley Community Foundation

    Outstanding Business
    Golden Pepper Productions

    Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
    Wenda Boyer

    Outstanding Fundraising Group
    Emmaus Rotary

    Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
    Alexis Valentin

    Rising Star
    Shaun Marakovits

    IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Access) Champion
    Murtaza Jaffer

    News

    AmeriCorps Member Spotlight: Deborah James, Weatherly Area School District in Carbon County

    November 13, 2023

    Meet Deborah James, an AmeriCorps Community Resource Navigator (CRN) representing United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley (UWGLV) at Weatherly Area School District in Carbon County. CRNs are stationed at host sites where they meet with community members to coordinate resource referrals in the areas of housing, employment, transportation, medical, financial and stability. The navigator follows each individual from assessment of need to service linkage to monitoring and support to help them access and follow through with referrals.

    Deborah serves as a mentor for students, providing a supportive environment for them. She has also created a Think Happy Box to encourage the spread of happy thoughts and feelings among the students. She is particularly proud of her work with a student who had refused help in the past and is now thriving. Deborah’s future goals are to continue her work in the school district and be able to help her community more.

    AmeriCorps is a national service program administered by PennSERVE (Pennsylvania’s State Service Commission), enrolling individuals in national community service positions. AmeriCorps members represent the best of America, tirelessly serving people and communities across the country. 

    UWGLV is proud to have AmeriCorps members serve in various positions to gain professional experience. Members work closely with United Way staff and assignments are based in the UWGLV office, school districts and nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.

    News

    “United Way pinpoints the programs that have the greatest impact in our community at any given time, making our donations the most effective choice.”

    November 09, 2023

    United Way Tocqueville Society members are deeply committed to giving back through their leadership and service. Tocqueville members since 2022, Mary Lisicky and her wife, Amber Simchak, share their personal reasons for giving to United Way.

    “We’re passionate about giving back to our community through service, volunteering and philanthropy. United Way’s unique approach to assessing community needs and measuring local success stood out. They pinpoint the programs that have the greatest impact in our community at any given time, making our United Way donations the most effective choice.”

    Mary, First Vice President, Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley, serves as a board member of two United Way partner agencies: Via of the Lehigh Valley and Valley Youth House.

    Mary and Amber reside in Allentown and have 2 children: Edie and Eleanor.

    News

    Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley and Partners Host Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast to Celebrate Walk Audit Success

    November 08, 2023

    In partnership with AARP Pennsylvania Office and Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley hosted a celebratory breakfast for dedicated partners and volunteers to celebrate the success of the Walk Audit initiative. Approximately 60 key partners, volunteers and supporters were in attendance. Thank you to all who took part in an audit to better support and build an age-friendly community.

    “A minimum of 6.5 million dollars will be funneled in the Lehigh Valley between 2024 and 2029 to make improvements to our roadways and trailheads, thanks to our walk audit reporting,” shares Becky Bradley, Executive Director at Lehigh Valley Planning Commission.

    • Photo Credit: Marco Calderon Photography

    News

    United Way Celebrates National Make a Difference Day with Second Tocqueville Society Volunteer Day

    October 31, 2023

    More than 30 families joined United Way for our second annual Tocqueville Society volunteer experience on National Make a Difference Day on October 28. Members brought friends and family to complete community service projects throughout the region including packing Luminaria Night kits with New Bethany, preparing emergency food boxes and creating greeting cards with Meals on Wheels and beautifying the grounds at Easton Area Neighborhood Center. Thank you to all the volunteers who make a difference with United Way and our partners!

  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023
  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023
  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023
  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023
  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023
  • Tocqueville Society Make a Difference Day 2023

    • News

    “Because PPL matches employee gifts, we have been able to double our United Way impact on the causes that we care about.”

    October 24, 2023

    United Way Tocqueville Society is an alliance of over 340 successful business and philanthropic leaders and their families who share a strong commitment and passion for investing in our local community. Mike Shafer of PPL and his wife Melissa, Tocqueville donors since 2021, recently share their personal reasons for giving back through United Way.

    “We have always donated our time and money to organizations that provide a positive benefit to our community. Because PPL matches employee gifts, we have been able to double our United Way impact on the causes that we care about and be a part of this tremendous mission-driven organization.”

    Melissa, AVP Government & Community Relations at St. Luke’s University Health Network, is on United Way’s Public Policy Advocacy Committee (PPAC) and Mike regularly volunteers for United Way’s Day of Caring. They reside in Upper Saucon Township and have 2 children: Sadie and Bradley.