United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley had the honor of welcoming Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, for a powerful day of connection, conversation and inspiration.
During her visit, Angela—named a 2025 USA Today Woman of the Year—met with local donors, volunteers, business leaders and staff to share a clear message: United Way is built for this moment. Throughout her visit, Angela outlined the strategic direction guiding United Way’s work around the world—scaling impact, building sustainable revenue and investing in future leadership.
“It’s what happens in local communities that brings United Way to life,” she shared. “Every time we show up, it’s for such a time as this.”
The morning began with a Visionary Breakfast, hosted by board member, Laurie Hackett and Air Products Community Relations, where she joined board members, nonprofit partners and community leaders for a conversation on the future of philanthropy. At our United Way office, staff shared highlights—including a presentation on our United Way Community Schools—and engaged in a Q&A. Angela’s visit concluded with a Leadership Lunch, hosted by Lehigh Valley Partnership and United Way Worldwide board member David Shaffer at Saucon Valley Country Club, where business leaders in attendance heard her perspective on collaboration and community impact.
She recognized United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley as one of the highest-performing United Ways in the network, highlighting its $26 million in recent investments, support of more than 150 partners and service to over 200,000 people.
“You are showing what’s possible,” she said.
Angela’s visit was a powerful reminder that the future of United Way is already being built—right here in the Lehigh Valley—through strong leadership, deep partnerships and a shared commitment to community.
At United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, our mission is to strengthen the bonds between schools, families and communities, ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Recognizing a growing call from educators and community partners, United Way and the Collaborative Action for Family Engagement (CAFE) launched a three-part Family Engagement Series to equip schools with proven strategies for building lasting family-school partnerships.
Family engagement is a core pillar of United Way Community Schools, where schools serve as neighborhood hubs offering wraparound support to students and families. Throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley, United Way supports 34 Community Schools, each fostering meaningful relationships with parents and caregivers to ensure students have what they need to thrive. The Family Engagement Series reinforced these efforts by equipping educators and partners with tools to deepen their impact and remove barriers that may prevent families from being involved in their child’s education.
The series began by exploring how equitable family engagement drives student success. Participants learned that authentic relationships are essential for improving academic outcomes, boosting graduation rates and supporting students’ social-emotional growth. Introducing the Dual Capacity-Building Framework, the first session challenged participants to recognize and remove systemic barriers that often prevent families from engaging fully.
The second session, held in-person at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, focused on how to integrate family engagement strategies into the Community School work. In partnership with Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium (MAEC), this training’s goal was to educate participants on how to increase family engagement with the schools through the Pennsylvania’s Department of Education Family Engagement Framework. The framework session covered six key standards, including how to connect families to resources to connect goals, interests and needs. Additionally, it emphasized how to build partnerships with families that are strength-based, authentic, reciprocal and respectful.
“Engagement is not just events,” shared Jessica Webster, MAEC’s Senior Family Engagement Specialist, “it is a series of events. We want to focus on high impact family engagement.”
The final, virtual session helped participants develop action plans to sustain their efforts. Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act model, attendees reflected on how to measure the effectiveness of family engagement strategies, adapt to changing needs and celebrate success. Critical reflection questions challenged schools to ensure their efforts are culturally responsive, relationship-driven and linked to measurable student outcomes.
Across all three sessions, the message was clear: authentic family engagement isn’t extra—it’s essential to student success. Families, educators, community partners, and donors each play a vital role in building inclusive, supportive school communities where every child can thrive.
We thank our Community Schools for attending and our sponsors Crayola and Capital Blue Cross for helping make these trainings happen.
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Women United recently gathered for an engaging afternoon of fun, networking and learning at the Allentown Municipal Golf Course in partnership with She Said Golf and the City of Allentown and sponsored by Capital Blue Cross.
Women United is a dynamic group of more than 160 women philanthropists who are passionate about creating meaningful change in our community. Through leadership, giving and service, they support programs that strengthen families and build brighter futures for women and children across the Lehigh Valley.
During the event, members and guests learned more about Women United’s 10 signature projects, including impactful initiatives like The Literacy Center of the Lehigh Valley, which helps adults improve reading and workforce readiness skills, and Community Bike Works, which mentors local youth through hands-on bicycle mechanics and also practice life skills including communication, teamwork and perseverance.
Capital Blue Cross, a long-time supporter of United Way and sponsor of the event, emphasized its shared mission to improve community health and well-being through strategic partnerships like Women United and the United Way Community Schools network.
The event was hosted in partnership with She Said Golf—an organization dedicated to empowering women to step onto the golf course with confidence. Founded in 2023 by sisters Julie and Jamie, She Said Golf creates inclusive, approachable spaces for women to learn, connect and grow through the game of golf. From range meetups and clinics to charity events and scrambles, their mission is rooted in community and fun.
Julie shared helpful etiquette tips and course prep advice before attendees headed out to enjoy the course, connect with one another and take advantage of hands-on instruction, if needed. The gathering also included an opportunity to give back. Attendees donated thousands of feminine hygiene products from pads and tampons to sanitary wipes and soap in support of the Allentown Menstrual Equity Program, helping to increase access to essential supplies for local residents. The City of Allentown will be distributing the products at 8 sites in Allentown.
Last month, Ana Rodriguez, a production line worker at Just Born Quality Confections, was named the Grand Prize winner in United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s 2024 Campaign incentive drawing. As the Grand Prize winner, Ana had the choice between a leased 2025 Hyundai Elantra or a $10,000 cash prize, courtesy of Brown-Daub Dealerships—and she chose the cash prize.
Ana Rodriguez of Just Born Confections
Originally from the Dominican Republic, Ana is the 11th of 16 children. As a single mother raising two sons, she relied on her local Boys & Girls Club for after-school care and homework support. Thanks to her perseverance and the support she received, both of her sons went on to graduate from Kutztown University in 2011 and 2016. Today, Ana is passionate about education and empowering mothers and families. Through Just Born’s workplace campaign, she proudly supports United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley to help organizations like the Boys & Girls Club continue to offer critical support to families in need. Ana plans to save her prize for something special and is considering a family trip back to the Dominican Republic to share her roots with her children and grandchildren.
As a long-time member of United Way’s Cornerstone Society—25 generous and deeply committed partners contributing $100,000 or more annually—Brown-Daub Dealerships remains one of United Way’s most dedicated supporters, helping to strengthen the community year-round. For nearly 15 years, Brown-Daub has provided a significant incentive prize of $10,000 cash or a new vehicle for donors who contributed to the campaign at a certain level, which encouraged individuals to give more.
“Partners like Brown-Daub are essential to our community’s success, and we’re grateful for their ongoing commitment to philanthropy,” said Paul Hurd, Chief Philanthropy Officer at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “For nearly two decades, Brown-Daub and their employees have helped fuel meaningful change across our region, and we deeply appreciate their continued generosity.”
“Brown-Daub and my family have been partnered with United Way forever,” shared Tom Daub, President, Brown-Daub Dealerships. “We’re deeply committed to education and healthy aging, two of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s key initiatives, making our partnership a perfect fit.”
Individuals who contributed at least $365 to United Way’s 2024 Campaign were entered to win one of four incentive prizes:
Grand Prize: $10,000 or a leased 2025 Hyundai Elantra provided by Brown-Daub Dealerships, presented to Ana Rodriguez
First Prize: $2,500 in Wegmans gift cards, presented to Saramma Hoffman of PPL Corp.
Second Prize: Lehigh Valley IronPigs Dugout Suite courtesy of BSI Corporate Benefits, presented to Walter (Wally) Nelson of Air Products
Third Prize: Martin Guitar valued at $1,799, presented to Kelly Blanar of Air Products
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley extends its heartfelt thanks to Brown-Daub Dealerships, Wegmans Food Markets, BSI Corporate Benefits and Martin Guitar for supporting the spirit of giving and driving lasting impact in our community.
$2,500 in Wegmans gift cards, presented to Saramma Hoffman of PPL Corp.
Martin Guitar valued at $1,799, presented to Kelly Blanar of Air Products
Our nonprofit partners are UNITED in creating lasting solutions to our community’s greatest challenges. New United Way partner, JOSHWAY, empowers youth in the Lehigh Valley to thrive in today’s digital world.
Founded in 2023 by David Robertson in memory of his brother Joshua, their innovative programs combine Korn Ferry-inspired leadership development with creative exploration, addressing mental health challenges and social pressures through tools like digital storytelling and financial literacy workshops. Known for dynamic workshops in partnership with Apple that blend liberal arts and technology, JOSHWAY is transforming nonprofit collaboration by connecting youth-focused organizations with leading experts to maximize impact.
JOSHWAY’s mission closely aligns with United Way’s priorities in youth development, mental health and community stability, and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to partner with them as they continue this important work. Learn more at joshway.org
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley supporters raised $26,231,833, marking 15 consecutive years of growth and significant investment in the region’s most pressing needs. Led by Campaign Chair Chris Martin and Martin Guitar, the campaign’s success reflects the unwavering generosity and dedication of local donors, volunteers and corporate partners.
“I’ve been involved in supporting United Way since I was a kid, so serving as this year’s Campaign Chair was a full-circle moment,” shared Chris Martin, Executive Chairman of C. F. Martin & Co. “I am incredibly proud to see how this community rallied together to make real change. It’s been an honor to witness the generosity and compassion that defines the Greater Lehigh Valley.”
United Way announced the results today during Celebration of Caring, presented by Crayola. The event celebrates the collaborative spirit and lasting impact achieved through the dedication of organizations, donors, volunteers and partners who helped improve the lives of more than 200,000 people across the Greater Lehigh Valley this year.
“This year, our network of deeply invested donors and partners connected over 41,000 students and families with the tools to succeed in school and life, supported almost 9,500 older adults and caregivers through programs that promote health and social connection and ensured nearly 110,000 people had access to food, housing, mental health care and emergency services,” said Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “We’re especially grateful to Chris Martin for his inspiring leadership as Campaign Chair and for bringing together the people and partnerships needed to make this year such a success.”
Altogether, a strong network of partners and donors increased their contributions to the annual campaign, which ran from April 2024 to March 2025. PPL Corp.’s employees, retirees and corporate foundation contributed more than $7,000,000 this year—a first for our United Way and their third consecutive year raising over $6,000,000. Air Products raised more than $6,000,000, marking their fourth straight year raising more than $5,000,000. CAI, City Center Group and Crayola each raised more than $1,000,000.
“United Way’s mission is only possible because of the dedication of our partners, donors and volunteers who show up year after year to lift up their neighbors and strengthen the community,” stated United Way Board Chair Joe Savage, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at Victaulic. “Together, we are providing hope, stability and opportunity to everyone who calls the Greater Lehigh Valley home.”
During the event, guests were treated to a special musical showcase featuring Martin Guitar artists, adding a unique and memorable touch to the evening filled with gratitude and community. The celebration also included the presentation of five awards recognizing the outstanding commitment of dedicated organizations and community leaders to United Way’s mission:
PPL LIVE UNITED Award – Dual Temp Company Inc. Campaign Chair’s Award – Vince and Michelle Sorgi Community Builder Award– Slate Belt Angels Air Products Leonard Pool Impact Award – Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Lifetime Achievement Award – Lee and Dolly Butz
Valued community partners in sponsorship for this year’s Celebration of Caring include:
Presenting sponsor – Crayola Platinum sponsor – Dual Temp Company Inc. Gold sponsor –PPL Corp. Bronze sponsors – Capital Blue Cross; Just Born Quality Confections Pearl sponsors – Alvin H. Butz, Inc., Fulton Bank; Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health; Quadrant Capital Friends of United Way – Equinox Benefits Consulting; Moravian University In-kind contributors – ArtsQuest Center; ASR Media; Rich Mar Florist; Social T. Marketing & PR; Working Dog Press
For more information about United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and its impact in the community, visit www.UnitedWayGLV.org.
Our nonprofit partners are UNITED in creating lasting solutions to our community’s greatest challenges. United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley congratulatesVictory House of Lehigh Valleyfor its 40th year Anniversary.
Victory House remains at the forefront of offering shelter and assistance to transitional males in the Lehigh Valley. Their comprehensive services encompass emergency shelter, transitional housing, case management, healthcare and supportive services, guiding and empowering residents in their journey toward independent living.
Moreover, Victory House serves as an internship site for several esteemed colleges and universities, including Cedar Crest College, Desales University, Penn State University and others. Notably, they are the exclusive Department of Veterans Affairs contracted Service Intensive Transitional Housing program in the Lehigh Valley, underscoring their commitment to supporting those in need.
For over three decades, since 1985, Victory House has been dedicated to helping our homeless neighbors succeed. United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to recognize and thank Victory House for their decades of partnership, compassion and commitment to improving lives in our community. Here’s to continuing this impactful work—together.
Downtown Allentown Alliance Announces Partnership with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
Allentown, PA, April 2, 2025 —The Downtown Allentown Alliance (DAA), a new organization formed to build on the tremendous success downtown Allentown has achieved over the past decade, announced today its new partnership with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.
The DAA, which officially launched in 2025, is dedicated to strategically increasing activation and engagement, retail variety and support, clean and safe streets, recognition of diverse cultures and positive public perception of downtown Allentown. The DAA works to meet its goals for continuously improving downtown Allentown through community input, public and private funding and, effective immediately, a new partnership with United Way.
“United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is the perfect partner to help launch our new organization,” said Sen. Nick Miller, who helps lead the DAA Steering Committee. “United Way’s expertise in leadership development, donation management, grant writing and much more will accelerate the startup of DAA and provide invaluable guidance and support until DAA becomes fully independent.”
“Thriving downtowns sit at the heart of thriving communities. At United Way, we’re honored and excited to play a role in developing the new Downtown Allentown Alliance with many outstanding public and private partners. By providing strategic guidance, we look forward to building on the foundation of a vibrant district for businesses, residents and visitors for many years to come,” said Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer of United Way.
Last year, the DAA Steering Committee, including Sen. Miller and the Allentown Economic Development Corp., partnered with Public Sphere Projects, a national planning consultant, to develop a comprehensive strategy to cohesively manage and boost Downtown Allentown’s many assets. Using public input from surveys and events, retailer market analysis and stakeholder focus groups, the firm recommended DAA focus on four strategic pillars:
Enhance Engagement & Vibrancy
Inspire Loyalty & Advocacy
Curate a Dynamic Retail Landscape
Celebrate and Elevate Cultural Heritage
To learn more about the DAA, sign up to receive email updates here.
In response to a devastating fire that tore through the Hotel Lafayette in Easton on March 22, displacing more than 40 individuals from their homes, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and local partners have established an emergency relief fund to provide urgent assistance to those affected.
The fire was contained to a single room on the fifth floor, however, extensive water damage spread to the second, third and fourth floors. As a result, 36 units were affected, with 12 units in need of significant repairs. American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter is partnering with Greater Shiloh Church Chapel in South Easton to operate a shelter for those affected by the fire, offering three meals a day and a place to stay until residents find safe housing. Safe Harbor Easton is also providing support to those displaced. The Red Cross shelter will remain open until all displaced residents have alternate housing accommodations.
The American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter provided relief to the impacted residents in the immediate aftermath of the fire, including shelter, food, and emergency supplies. Now, United Way will work with partners to provide long-term assistance, with 100% of funds going to aid those affected by this disaster.
“This tragic fire has displaced dozens of people who are now faced with the uncertainty of rebuilding their lives,” said Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “The strength of our partners and community lies in our ability to come together quickly and support those in crisis. Every donation to this relief fund will provide vital resources and a path forward for those impacted.”
Donations can be made online at this secure website or via mail (checks payable to UWGLV, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109 – attention “Hotel Lafayette Fire Fund”). Additionally, individuals interested in making a donation can text “REBUILD” to 40403. Gift card donations are also encouraged.
For additional information or questions on the fund, contact Laura McHugh at 610-807-5701.
Resurrected Community Development Corporation (RCDC), a United Way grant recipient, is a nonprofit organization serving Allentown and the greater Lehigh Valley. RCDC provides a variety of education programs for school-aged children. Its flagship programs include the Resurrected Life Children’s Academy, a state-licensed early childhood education facility, and Freedom Schools, a six-week summer literacy initiative in partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund.
With support from United Way, RCDC launched the ABLE Program (Amistad Institute for Black Liberation and Leadership), engaging over 100 parents and caregivers in civic education, community engagement and leadership training through a racial equity lens.
Looking ahead, RCDC is embarking on a historic $7.5 million renovation of its Old Allentown campus, scheduled to begin this year, in addition to continuing operations at its newly renovated downtown location. Learn more at https://rcdclv.org/.
