News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Honors Outstanding Community Leaders and Partners for Creating Lasting Change Throughout the Region

March 26, 2025

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley honor Dual Temp Company Inc., Vince and Michelle Sorgi, Slate Belt Angels, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival and Lee and Dolly Butz with awards for their exceptional commitment to creating meaningful impact across the region. Awards will be presented at United Way’s Celebration of Caring on Thursday, April 10, 2025, as part of an evening dedicated to honoring donors, volunteers and partners united in building a stronger, healthier and more thriving community.

“Celebration of Caring is about honoring the extraordinary dedication of our donors, volunteers and partners who are deeply committed to building a stronger, healthier community,” remarked Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “Their compassion and collaborative spirit have helped create real and lasting impact for tens of thousands of people across the Lehigh Valley.”

Presented by Crayola, this event honors organizations and individuals who have made a significant impact through the annual United Way campaign chaired by Chris Martin of Martin Guitar.

Dual Temp Company Inc. will receive United Way’s highest honor, the PPL LIVE UNITED Award, recognizing their long-standing leadership as a partner in United Way’s Cornerstone Society—a generous and deeply committed group of partners contributing $100,000 or more annually to strengthen the community—and through impactful workplace giving campaigns. Innovative programs such as their “100 Cool Acts of Kindness” initiative with United Way’s Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley resulted in increased safety and comfort for seniors in their homes. Additionally, Dual Temp continuously supports United Way through event sponsorships, creating engagement opportunities for donors and partners, and by participating in Day of Caring with dozens of volunteers year after year.

“Dual Temp’s commitment to our community goes far beyond financial support. They are true changemakers who combine generosity with innovative service,” remarked Paul Hurd, Chief Philanthropy Officer at United Way. “Their impact extends beyond financial contributions, creating real change through hands-on service and strategic partnerships.”

The following awardees will also be honored during Celebration of Caring:

Vince and Michelle Sorgi – Campaign Chair’s Award
Presented to partners who demonstrate leadership and innovation during United Way’s campaign and an ability to increase awareness throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Slate Belt Angels – Community Builder Award
Presented to an organization that supports United Way in its community-building efforts, encourages cooperation, contributes talent and resources to further partnerships, creates common ground and perseveres in the face of challenges.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival – Air Products Leonard Pool Impact Award
Presented by Air Products, this award recognizes a nonprofit that demonstrates exceptional community leadership, resource stewardship, volunteer engagement and strategic impact in the Lehigh Valley.

Lee and Dolly Butz – Lifetime Achievement Award
This award honors individuals demonstrating a lifetime of philanthropic leadership and inspiring service to the Lehigh Valley community.

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; Quadrant Capital
Friends of United Way – Equinox Benefits Consulting; Moravian University
In-kind contributors – ASR Media; Rich Mar Florist; Social T. Marketing & PR; Working Dog Press
   
Community members are invited to join United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Campaign Chair Chris Martin and Martin Guitar as we recognize the collective impact of the community. The evening will be filled with gratitude, music and community in celebration of the collective effort to build a better Lehigh Valley. Registration is $60 and required. Visit unitedwayglv.org/UWCelebrates or email [email protected] to register or call 610-807-5708 with questions. 

News

Turning Surplus into Support: NicNac Charities Creates Lasting Community Impact

March 24, 2025
NicNac Charities
NicNac Charities logo

At United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, we believe in partnerships that transform lives and create lasting change. As a new United Way partner, NicNac Charities’ dedication to sustainability, innovation and veteran support reflects our commitment to community stability and well-being.

NicNac Charities sources pallets of surplus goods from Fortune 500 companies and redirects them where they are needed most. Whether it’s providing theater students with repurposed spray paint for set designs or distributing warm clothing to families during the winter, NicNac ensures that valuable resources don’t go to waste but instead serve the community.

Beyond meeting material needs, NicNac Charities is driving impact through critical research efforts aimed at veteran suicide prevention. By developing an AI-powered referral network, they are working to bridge gaps in mental health support. Their initiative equips nonprofits with mobile devices to collect minimal but essential data, connecting veterans to critical resources efficiently. This technology empowers organizations, including United Way-supported programs, to better serve veterans in need.

With a simple ZIP code entry, this network will help caseworkers, 811 agents and reintegration officers quickly identify and connect veterans to trusted NGOs and local services—ensuring no veteran falls through the cracks.

Together, we are expanding access to essential resources and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. We’re excited to see the continued impact of NicNac Charities throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley.

NicNac Charities

News

Creative Connections: Using Art to Support Caregivers and People Living with Dementia

March 15, 2025

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley held an art-making event for caregivers and individuals living with Dementia last month. It was designed as a space for creative expression, connection and joy. The event proved to be a meaningful and engaging experience for those who attended. An intimate gathering, the attendees were able to connect and receive hands-on guidance.

The session began with a mini gallery walk, setting the stage for inspiration and creative exploration. This was followed by an art-making session led by teaching artist Cindy Rodriguez, who guided participants through a collage-making activity. The attending couple, who are avid cruisers, created sea-inspired collages, reflecting their cherished travel memories.

The attendees shared that they had a wonderful time, appreciating the opportunity to engage in art together in a relaxed and supportive setting. Their positive feedback reinforces the importance of creative programming for caregivers and individuals living with dementia. Moving forward, insights from the attendance survey will be used to refine outreach and accessibility efforts.

Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley remains committed to fostering inclusive, enriching experiences and looks forward to hosting more opportunities for creative engagement.

    • News

    “Together We Rise”: United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant Supports Battle Borne

    March 11, 2025
    Battle Borne Mental Health Grant

    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley proudly presented a $20,000 check to Battle Borne as a part of the United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant initiative. This grant supports programs and organizations dedicated to improving mental health resources for veterans. This funding will assist Battle Borne in expanding its reach into Carbon County and its rural areas to build out key initiatives including promoting mental health and resilience and ensuring that veterans, first responders and their families in these underserved communities receive the support they need to reintegrate successfully into civilian life.

    “Together we rise’ is not just a catchy motto, it’s what we believe,” shared Chris Yarnell, Battle Borne President & Founder. “Our team would like to personally thank United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley for visiting our Veterans Resource Center and for affording us this amazing opportunity. It is truly an honor for us to be one of the five veteran non-profits awarded a grant to extend our mental health services to a new area. We are excited about the partnerships we have already developed in Carbon County and are looking forward to serving the veteran community.”

    Battle Borne held their monthly Military Share Food Distribution Program at their Veterans Resource Center last month in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank. Nearly 70 families were given 10lbs of produce in addition to dairy and meat. Volunteers show up every month to donate their time to support those in need.

    Battle Borne Mental Health Grant

    “I served in the Army from December 1985 to 1996, and now I work for Amazon, where we have a Warriors affinity group for those who have served. Through them, I learned about Battle Borne and have been volunteering for about eight months. I like helping fellow Veterans in need. With the economic challenges of the last couple of years, many Vets are in a tough spot, and that’s why I want to help my Brothers and Sisters in arms,” shared Vet and Battle Borne Volunteer, Samantha Reith.

    We are excited to see the positive impact this grant will have on veterans, first responders and their families. United Way is proud to support such a dedicated organization, and we look forward to continuing our partnership and watching the growth of Battle Borne as they expand their services to even more veterans in need.



    News

    The Power of Reading: How United Way Community Schools Are Inspiring a Love for Learning

    March 06, 2025

    Reading has the power to transform lives, opening doors to new ideas, sparking creativity, and shaping the future. This Read Across America Week, we’re celebrating that power with students in United Way Community Schools across the Greater Lehigh Valley. By sharing stories, fostering imagination and encouraging a love of reading, we’re helping students build confidence and critical skills that will last a lifetime. A special thank you to our incredible volunteer readers who are making this week even more meaningful!

    • Students at Marvine Elementary School in Bethlehem being read to during Read Across America Week
    • Paxinosa, St. Luke's Easton Campus
    view full photo gallery

    News

    Empowering Youth Leaders: Leon Gonzalez Leads the Way in Youth Mental Health Support

    March 03, 2025

    Priscilla Rosado, Director of Partner Engagement at United Way, presented 17-year-old Leon Gonzalez with a $5,000 check as part of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Youth Mental Health Innovation Grant. This grant is designed to support innovative projects that prioritize and enhance the mental well-being of young people.

    Leon Gonzalez’s project, the Being Phenom(enal) Program, is designed to offer mentorship to other young men who find themselves in difficult circumstances. It provides a space for them to express how they are feeling and also provides discipline and confidence moving forward. 

    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to support Leon’s Being Phenom(enal) Program and a huge thanks to the donors who contributed during our UNITED for Mental Health Initiative for helping make this funding possible.

    News

    Community Groups Unite to Launch Relief Fund for Families Displaced by Allentown Fire on February 18

    February 20, 2025

    In rapid response to the devastating fire that displaced multiple families on North 3rd Street in Allentown on February 18, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and community partners have launched an emergency fire relief fund to provide immediate financial support to those affected.

    The American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter is assisting 19 individuals, including two families with 11 children ranging in age from 7 months to 16 years old. While many of the 30 people initially impacted may be able to return to their homes, others have lost everything. The City of Allentown, Red Cross, Community Action Lehigh Valley, the Lehigh Conference of Churches and The Salvation Army have come together to ensure these families receive the support they need.

    United Way will work with partners to provide long-term assistance, with 100% of funds going to aid those affected by this disaster.

    “This fire has upended lives, especially for the children and families who have lost their homes and belongings. Our community is stepping up to ensure these families have immediate relief and a path forward,” said Marci Lesko, Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “Every dollar raised will directly support 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 “3rd Street Fire Fund”). Additionally, individuals interested in making a donation can text “ALLENTOWN” to 40403. Gift card donations are also encouraged.

    For additional information or questions on the fund, contact Laura McHugh at 610-807-5701.

    News

    New Talk Read Sing Space at Boys & Girls Club Empowers Lehigh Valley Families 

    February 18, 2025
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
  • Boy & Girls Club TRS Space Transformation
    • view the Full photo gallery

    On Thursday, January 30, 2025, the Community Impact team from United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley gathered at Boys & Girls Club of Allentown, Turner Street Clubhouse to transform a new Talk Read Sing Space.  

    This space is part of an ongoing effort to foster early literacy and support families in the Lehigh Valley. Through the Talk Read Sing campaign, United Way encourages parents and caregivers to engage in simple activities like talking, reading and singing with their children. These small moments can have an impact on a child’s language development, vocabulary and social-emotional growth. 

    Over the years, the Talk Read Sing campaign has reached over 12,000 families across the region, providing early literacy resources and transforming spaces within the community to encourage learning. With the addition of the new space at the Boys & Girls Club, the initiative now includes 9 newly created Talk Read Sing spaces throughout the Lehigh Valley including Early Learning Resource Center, Casa Guadalupe WIC Clinic, The Church of the Mediator, Christ Lutheran Church, Ripple Church, Allentown Health Bureau, Valley Health Partners Children’s Clinic and Star Community Health KidsCare. 

    Through the Talk Read Sing campaign and the help of community partners, United Way is helping close the literacy gap and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed and thrive. 

    Talk Read Sing Program is building early language and literacy skills across the region.

    News

    Empowering Women, Inspiring Girls: Frances Hesselbein Documentary Screening

    February 17, 2025
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
  • WU Private Screening of Frances Hesselbein Documentary
    • View photo gallery

    On January 23, 75 members of Women United, the Women’s Business Council, and the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania gathered at the Civic Theatre of Allentown for a special screening of Defining Moments: The Life and Leadership of Quiet Revolutionary Frances Hesselbein. This inspiring documentary highlights the life and work of Frances Hesselbein, a leader known for her dedication to volunteerism, diversity, and expanding opportunities for women.

    The event featured activities designed to engage attendees. Joyful Giving, a nonprofit organization that packages essential items that look and feel like gifts to spread joy, provided a volunteer opportunity for the Girl Scouts, allowing them to contribute in a hands-on way. As part of this experience, the Scouts added a special patch created by Sarah McArthur, an executive producer of the documentary, making it a memorable and personal touch to the evening.

    This event was made possible through the collaboration of the Girl Scouts, the Women’s Business Council, and Women United. A special thanks goes to Carrie Ward, whose efforts helped bring the screening to the community. United Way Greater Lehigh Valley CEO Marci Lesko also took the time to recognize key contributors and express gratitude for those who made the night a success.

    A sincere thank you goes to Capital Blue Cross and Crayola for their generous sponsorship, which helped make this gathering a reality. Their support played an essential role in bringing together individuals committed to leadership, service, and the empowerment of future generations.

    News

    TeenWorks Annual Dinner Recognizes the Impact Teens Made on the Community in 2024

    February 13, 2025
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
  • 2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner
    • view photo gallery

    United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and its community partners recently came together to celebrate the 26th annual TeenWorks Dinner, an event dedicated to recognizing the incredible achievements of young leaders committed to making a difference. Speakers of the event included Teen Board Chair, Polina Dorma; CEO of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Marci Lesko; and Keynote Speaker, Chaunice Holley.

    During the evening, attendees honored the impact of multiple TeenWorks projects, highlighting the dedication and hard work of local youth in serving their communities. The TeenWorks Project of the Year, Zach Krauss Spirit of Service and TeenWorks Hero were a few of the awards presented.

    2025 TeenWorks Annual Dinner

    The TeenWorks Project of the Year recognizes an impactful contribution to their community by identifying a need and creating a solution. This year’s award was presented to Brody Muthard for their outdoor learning space at Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 for the Early Intervention program.

    The Zach Krauss Spirit of Service Award recognizes a student or group of students who have demonstrated a commitment to making their community a better place to live by completing an outstanding, altruistic project that was innovative, meaningful and impacted people in their community. This year’s award was presented to Jody Weinreich.

    The TeenWorks Hero Award is given to a person who demonstrates a commitment to the ideals and purpose of the TeenWorks mission. Someone who embodies the qualities of hard work, honesty, and a commitment to giving back to his/her community through acts of compassion and selflessness. This year’s award was presented to Alexis Berg-Townsend.

    TeenWorks is made up of a diverse group of local middle and high school students and local members of organized labor. The group meets monthly and helps to fund community service projects throughout the Lehigh Valley from various youth groups. Over 500 organizations have received grants of up to $1,000 for their projects.

    This annual celebration not only acknowledges the hard work of TeenWorks participants but also strengthens the spirit of volunteerism and service within the Greater Lehigh Valley community.

    A huge thanks to our sponsors Capital Blue Cross, Teamsters Local 773, Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, IBEW Local 126, IBEW Local 375, Operating Engineers Local 542, United Auto Workers Local 677, Pennsylvania AFL-CIO, Banko Beverage Co., Bethlehem Education Association, Blue Chip Sound, Carpenters Local 167, Kendal Conrad, Insulators Local 23, Lehigh Valley Labor Council and Rich Mar Florists for help making this event happen.

    To learn more about TeenWorks, apply for funding or get involved, visit www.unitedwayglv.org/teenworks.