On a beautiful fall evening, over 125 Tocqueville donors gathered for United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Fall Tocqueville event at Barn Swallow Farm, a rustic venue surrounded by cornfields and adorned with pumpkins and string lights.
During the event, United Way Board Chair Joe Savage shared his vision for the future of the organization, emphasizing the trust and pride that donors and volunteers feel when giving through United Way. Chris Martin, President of Martin Guitar and this year’s Campaign Chair, announced a generous $500,000 match from C.F. Martin & Company and the Martin Guitar Foundation. The match applies to any current Tocqueville Society member who increases their donation by $1,000 or more specifically to support United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s initiatives, such as Community Schools, Education and Mental Health. This match is in addition to any available workplace matching funds. Chris added a special touch by raffling off a “Life is Good” ukulele during his remarks, while also announcing that Martin Guitar has generously donated four guitars this year, including two specifically for Tocqueville Society.
The event, sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield, provided a perfect blend of community, philanthropy and festive fall vibes.
Global Hope International is making significant progress in addressing healthcare disparities and empowering underserved communities. With the support of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Fund for Racial Justice and Equity (FRJE) grant, Global Hope International provides critical medical, dental, and vision services to individuals who may otherwise go without care. Its mission is simple but profound: to stand in the gap for those who lack access to essential healthcare services and to bring relief to communities through holistic care.
Global Hope International’s approach is rooted in offering comprehensive, accessible healthcare to communities in need. The organization provides free medical, dental, and vision care through annual health clinics. These services meet urgent needs, such as dental extractions and eye exams, often out of reach for many families due to financial constraints.
“Being able to educate people about what’s happening with their bodies, or addressing their concerns, can in itself be a relief,” said Monica Georges, Global Hope International. “When we help someone, whether with a toothache or by prescribing glasses, we remove barriers that allow people to focus on other aspects of their lives. It’s about providing relief and hope.”
In 2023, the FRJE grant was pivotal in supporting Global Hope International’s health clinics. Through support from Valley Health Partners, Lehigh County, and other community organizations, the clinics brought essential care to local residents. For many, this care was life-changing, particularly for children in the Allentown School District who could receive vision screenings and glasses within 45 minutes—a vital service for students who struggle with reading due to vision problems.
The success of Global Hope International’s health initiatives is largely due to the nonprofit’s strong partnerships with organizations like Valley Health Partners, Lehigh County and B. Braun. These partnerships have enabled Global Hope International to expand its reach and provide care to more people each year. Global Hope International’s 2023 clinic saw nearly $100,000 worth of medical services offered at no cost to patients, thanks to its partners’ financial and volunteer support.
Global Hope International collaborates with Remote Area Medical (RAM®), a major nonprofit provider of pop-up clinics delivering accessible quality dental, vision and medical care to those in need, to hold an annual free, two-day clinic providing healthcare services on a first-come-first basis. This year’s pop-up clinic is on Oct. 19 and 20 at the Executive Education Academy Charter School in Allentown. All RAM services are free, and no ID is required. Patients are encouraged to create a profile on the RAM platform to help expedite the registration process at https://patients.ramusa.org/. Lehigh Valley Health Network will provide a mammogram bus funded through federal resources for uninsured individuals, emphasizing Global Hope International’s commitment to preventative care.
In addition to medical services, Global Hope International also focuses on educating the community about available resources. Its clinics feature a Community Resource Section, where local nonprofits provide information on housing, food assistance, and other services. This holistic approach ensures that attendees receive immediate healthcare and are connected to longer-term support.
While Global Hope International’s work in the Lehigh Valley is transformative, the organization’s reach extends far beyond the local community. Global Hope International has brought healthcare services to underserved populations abroad. Recently, Global Hope International organized a mission trip to Peru, where a team of 17, including a dentist, provided much-needed care to local communities. These international efforts reflect Global Hope International’s dedication to making a global impact through healthcare and empowerment.
As Global Hope International prepares for its upcoming clinic, it continues to rally community support to ensure its success. With financial support from community organizations, Global Hope International can continue to provide life-changing services to those who need them most.
With help from initiatives like the FRJE grant, Global Hope International is providing critical healthcare services and fostering a more equitable and connected community. The nonprofit creates lasting change in the Lehigh Valley and beyond by addressing immediate health concerns and connecting individuals with essential resources.
Global Hope International’s work exemplifies the impact that can be achieved when communities unite to support those in need. Global Hope International ensures that healthcare is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. As the organization continues to grow and expand, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals and transform lives through comprehensive, compassionate care.
United Way awarded the following local organizations with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 through the FRJE:
Joe Savage, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Victaulic, will serve as Chair of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Board of Directors. In the role of Board Chair, Savage will volunteer his leadership and expertise to help United Way grow and strengthen its service to the community.
“Giving back to the community is something I’m personally passionate about, and I’ve always admired United Way’s ability to address our community’s most pressing challenges. I’m deeply committed to ensuring our community continues to have the support and resources it needs to thrive. I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated team to continue making a meaningful difference,” said Savage.
The data shows that 144,000 families in the Greater Lehigh Valley are still struggling to make ends meet. Your United Way is committed to stabilizing the community with three bold goals that ensure that more students succeed in school, more older adults have access to essential resources to stay healthy and every person in the Greater Lehigh Valley has a solid foundation of food, housing and mental health services.
“Your United Way is focused on the significant work ahead. We face our community’s big problems with BOLD solutions to ensure that everyone has the resources and opportunities to thrive. We’re fortunate to have Joe’s leadership as we continue to drive positive outcomes across the region,” remarked Marci Lesko, United Way Chief Executive Officer.
Savage joined Victaulic, a long-time corporate partner and member of United Way’s Cornerstone Society, in August 2006. United Way’s Cornerstone Society consists of 22 generous and deeply committed partners that help our community with annual contributions of $100,000 or more. Before joining Victaulic, Savage spent 13 years at United Technologies’ Carrier Corporation based in Syracuse, N.Y., where he held numerous executive positions including Vice President of Finance for its North American Commercial business unit. Savage is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in the State of New York.
Savage has consistently demonstrated his commitment to United Way through his service as Vice Chair of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s board since 2022 and also held a board seat with United Way of Central New York. His local community activities have included Chair of the Saucon Valley Foundation for Education Innovation and President of the Saucon Valley Lacrosse Club. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of his alma mater, Le Moyne College, Syracuse, N.Y. and was also a trustee of the Toys for Tots Foundation in Central New York.
Savage is joined by Vice Chair Matt Green, an accomplished technology executive who has served in a variety of leadership roles including Chief Information and Digital Officer for PPL Corporation. A dedicated supporter and member of United Way’s Tocqueville Society and Legacy Circle, Green joined the board in 2020 and has chaired the strategic technology committee, playing an important role in modernizing the organization’s technology systems. He was recently appointed chair of the organization’s impact council, which provides oversight to approximately $12 million in community investments across Lehigh, Carbon and Northampton counties.
“As a longtime supporter, I’m truly honored to help guide our local United Way into its next chapter of growth and continue to set a national standard for excellence,” said Green.
Savage and Green’s terms are effective July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2026.
Dwayne Jones is the CEO of Preventive Measures, Inc., a leading outpatient mental health and homecare organization with wellness centers in Allentown, East Stroudsburg and Philadelphia, Pa., as well as Washington, D.C., and Conyers, Ga. He also serves as the Chairman of The Preventive Measures Foundation.
Tracy Piazza is a lifelong resident of Easton and is an advocate for public education and social equity. Piazza is an administrator who has worked in the Easton Area School District (EASD) for 36 years and currently serves as the Superintendent of Schools for EASD. She previously served as a teacher, principal, director and assistant superintendent.
Jack Silva, Ed.D. is the current Superintendent of Schools for the Bethlehem Area School District in Bethlehem, Pa. Silva is dedicated to serving and supporting the academic and social growth of students, families and educators of the Bethlehem Area School District with the purpose of building a stronger community.
All member appointments are effective July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027.
This summer, caregivers and adults with dementia gathered at the Allentown Art Museum for an enriching event called Mindful Morning at the Museum. The free event, organized by Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley, a coalition led by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, provided a welcoming space where participants could focus on self-care, explore art and connect with others who share similar experiences. Thanks to funding from the Fleming Foundation, Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley partnered with the Allentown Art Museum to provide this event at no cost for caregivers and their loved ones living with dementia.
25,000 people in the Lehigh Valley are living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. That number is expected to triple by 2050. Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley supports those living with dementia and their caregivers by decreasing stigma, increasing opportunities for social interaction and increasing early diagnosis.
For many, the morning was not just about viewing art, it was about feeling a sense of connection and discovering joy in the little things.
“The atmosphere was just wonderful—it wasn’t just the art; it was being able to meet new people,” shared Suzie, one of the Mindful Morning participants.
The guided tour allowed participants to delve deeper into the stories behind the artworks, sparking meaningful conversations and fostering a calming and inspiring environment. Speaker 1 mentioned the museum’s free admission days and the tempting gift shop, while Speaker 2 humorously shared that they ultimately resisted making a purchase. For some, it was a familiar place, while others were experiencing the museum for the first time, creating a mix of new discoveries and treasured moments.
At the end of the morning, attendees were given care packages to take home. The event created a space where caregivers and individuals with dementia could share meaningful moments, find joy in art and be reminded that they are not alone. Programs like Mindful Morning at the Museum are important in enhancing quality of life and promoting well-being.
On Monday, September 23, 2024, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, in collaboration with the Housing Alliance of PA and Community Bike Works, hosted a vital and informative webinar designed specifically for nonprofits.
During the session, participants explored:
The Importance of Voter Engagement: Participants learned why it’s crucial for nonprofits to be involved in the voting process.
Rules and Tools: Participants learned the basic regulations governing voter engagement activities and discovered practical tools to help their organization participate effectively.
Following an interactive Q&A, participants of all levels of voter engagement received valuable insights and actionable steps to enhance their nonprofit’s impact in the community.
We are proud to announce that United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley received two prestigious honors at the 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Awards, recognizing our work in both youth mental health advocacy and entrepreneurial support. These wins highlight United Way’s commitment to driving positive change in the Lehigh Valley and creating a lasting impact in our community.
“2023 StartUp Lehigh Valley” (Category: Entertainment – Long Form)
The first Emmy win celebrates United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s role in supporting entrepreneurship through the 2023 StartUp Lehigh Valley event. This pitch competition showcases the innovation and creativity of local entrepreneurs. Designed to uplift and spotlight the next generation of business leaders in our community, StartUp Lehigh Valley fosters a thriving environment for startups to pitch their ideas and receive crucial support from key community partners.
Held in October 2023 at Factory LLC in Bethlehem, the event was a collaboration between United Way, Lehigh University, WFMZ, Ben Franklin Tech Ventures and The Factory. United Way’s Laura McHugh hosted the event along with Bo Koltnow and United Way was proud to sponsor and support this business initiative. The Emmy win for StartUp Lehigh Valley further underscores United Way’s dedication to fostering economic growth and innovation in our region.
“Youth Speak Up Lehigh Valley” (Category: News/Program Promotion/PSA – Campaign)
The second Emmy was awarded for the Youth Speak Up Lehigh Valley campaign, produced by Laura McHugh in collaboration with eMediaWorks’ Dr. Teri Haddad and Matt Lewis, Resilient Lehigh Valley and Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts in Bethlehem. This campaign was launched in December 2023 in response to the Surgeon General’s assessment of declining youth mental health across the nation. Recognizing the critical need to address this issue locally, United Way, along with Resilient Lehigh Valley, took decisive action to amplify the voices of local youth.
Through a powerful partnership with Aevidum, the campaign sought to create impactful video content that resonates deeply with young people and fosters meaningful communication between them and their parents. Rooted in the urgency of the youth mental health crisis, #YouthSpeakUpLV continues to make a difference by providing resources and building awareness around the mental health struggles many young people face today. A special thank you to Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and Lehigh County for funding support for #YouthSpeakUpLV.
These two Emmy Awards reflect United Way’s enduring mission to create lasting change in the Greater Lehigh Valley. From tackling the urgent youth mental health crisis to promoting entrepreneurship and business innovation, these initiatives showcase how our collaborations and partnerships are paving the way for a brighter future.
More than 2,300 energetic volunteers UNITED to complete community service projects at 81 area nonprofits during the 31st United Way Day of Caring, presented by Crayola and coordinated by Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.
“At United Way, our shared work is rooted in service. Day of Caring is a special moment for our community to come together and support the nonprofits that serve us all. It’s incredible to see how this event has grown, with more volunteers than ever before stepping up to make a difference. This day reminds us that everyone has something to give, and by volunteering, we create a sense of belonging and purpose that strengthens our community,” said Marci Lesko, United Way Chief Executive Officer.
United Way kicks off its annual campaign with Day of Caring, which is the largest single- day volunteer effort in the community.
“Today marks the beginning of our annual United Way campaign, and there’s no better way to kick it off than with Day of Caring. Watching so many companies join forces to support local nonprofits is truly inspiring. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together as a community,” said 2024 United Way Campaign Chair Chris Martin of Martin Guitar.
In the Greater Lehigh Valley, approximately 1,500 local employees from 60 companies and organizations contributed more than 8,000 hours of service valued at $267,920 to more than 81 nonprofits in Lehigh and Northampton counties. The volunteers were joined by 800 Moravian University students as part of their Heritage Day—a celebration of Moravian tradition, community and service. Some Day of Caring projects included:
Planting trees in Bethlehem with PPL and Wildlands Conversancy
Landscaping and yard work with Martin Guitar at Hellertown Historical Society
Gardening with Crayola at Children’s Home of Easton
Reorganizing storage spaces with Air Products at Boys & Girls Club of Allentown
Organizing the children’s library and beautifying outdoor spaces with Just Born Quality Confections at the Allentown branch of River Crossing YMCA
“At the Volunteer Center, connecting volunteers with local nonprofits is what we do best. This partnership is a significant benefit to nonprofits, giving them access to a dedicated network of volunteers eager to help. This year, we’re seeing our largest corporate team mobilization with 1,500 volunteers joined by 800 Moravian University students to support 81 local nonprofits. Our collaboration with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley creates a powerful impact on the community while offering businesses a valuable team-building experience for their employees,” said Karen Daly Smith, CEO, Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.
Day of Caring’s presenting sponsor is Crayola with additional support from:
Platinum Sponsor JP Morgan Chase & Co.;
Silver Sponsors Air Products and Capital Blue Cross;
Bronze Sponsors AAA East Central, B. Braun Medical Inc., Buckeye Partners LP, Highmark Blue Shield, Just Born Quality Confections and KingSpry Law;
Pearl Sponsor Amazon Fulfillment;
In-kind contributors ABARTA Coca-Cola, ASR Media, Lehigh Valley IronPigs and Uline.
National Coordinators Appreciation Week is September 15-21 and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley recognizes the vital role of our Community School Coordinators (CSC’s) and celebrates the transformational impact they make throughout their communities.
To acknowledge and celebrate their vital role, Community School Coordinators will be celebrated nationally for all the work they do to ensure all of our children learn and thrive through the #CoordinatorsRock campaign led by the Institute for Educational Leadership.
This week, Khushboo Jain, Director of United Way’s Community School Network, will make a surprise visit to our Community Schools to deliver flowers and cards with personalized notes from the United Way Education Team. Each card also included a little token of appreciation.
Community School Coordinators are the unsung heroes of community schools. To all of the CSC’s serving United Way Community Schools, we see you and we thank you for making a difference in our students’ lives.
SEE THE IMPACT
6 LEAD PARTNERS
23+ FUNDING PARTNERS
24COMMUNITY SCHOOL COORDINATORS
2,872 STUDENTS AND FAMILIES improved food security
1,049 STUDENTS AND FAMILIES improved housing security
United Way Community Schools remove barriers to education, so students, families and communities can thrive. Each school is staffed by a full-time Community School Coordinator who addresses basic needs, promotes family engagement, builds partnerships and coordinates services including:
Basic needs such as food, clothing, hygiene products, school supplies and housing
After-school programming
On-site physical, mental and behavioral health services
Field trips to support school goals, curriculum and child development
Over the past year, Community Schools reported:
Improved academic growth
More students’ and families’ basic needs met
Increased student and family engagement
Improved attendance and behavior
Improved school culture
United Way Community Schools are a collaboration of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Lehigh University, Moravian University, Northampton Community College, St. Luke’s University Health Network, and Communities In Schools of Eastern PA.
Learn more about the impact of United Way Community Schools here. To learn about your Community School or connect with the CSC near you, view the contact list here.
Shaun Marakovits, Sr. Director, Workplace Engagement at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, has been named one of Lehigh Valley Business’ 2024 Forty Under 40 honorees at this year’s awards celebration heled at the DeSales University Center in Center Valley.
Shaun serves as a senior leader at your local United Way 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 over $25 million during the 2023-24 campaign.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to be recognized by Lehigh Valley Business as a 40 Under Forty award winner,” shared Shaun. “This accolade is a reflection of the incredible staff I work alongside at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. Without my colleagues, mentors, and family, I don’t know where I’d be. The trajectory of my life changed the day I started working at United Way, and the people I work with each day are a true testament of that. I am inspired and honored to be included alongside my fellow honorees – many of whom I work closely with and know well – who are all remarkable individuals. Their achievements and commitment to the continued growth of our vibrant community are something to behold year after year. There’s more work to be done, and I’m excited to continue assisting the Greater Lehigh Valley in whatever capacity is needed. Thank you for this recognition.”
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).
Please join us in congratulating Shaun on this honor.
Forty Under 40 recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who have been successful in the Greater Lehigh Valley area. Honorees, selected by the Lehigh Valley Business leadership team and a panel of previous winners, were chosen based on professional accomplishments, community service and commitment to inspiring change. A listing of winners is below.
“The 2024 Forty Under 40 honorees are accomplished in their careers and also understand the importance of giving back to the community in meaningful ways. In addition, they inspire change and help make the Lehigh Valley the best place to live and work,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Lehigh Valley Business. “We at Lehigh Valley Business are honored to recognize these current and future leaders of our region.”
2024 Forty Under 40 Jonathan Becker, RPA Engineering Anthony P. Beltrami, Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, P.C. Rev. Kimberly Berenotto, Longswamp United Church of Christ Sandra Bieber, Discover Lehigh Valley Tricia Bowman, JULABO USA Hilary Brown, C.F. Martin & Co. Erica Butler, Blue Ridge Eating Disorder Care Center Brittney Ciardi, Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Brad Cosgrove, Tower Health Joseph Daddona, Shift4 Phil Ellingsworth Jr., Main Line Health Angelo Fattore, MBA, MSDA, Moravian University Zachary Fowler, Gross McGinley, LLP Alyssa M. Hicks, KingSpry Attorneys & Counselors Jimi Honochick, YMI Insurance Samantha Huhn, Military Resource Group (MRG) Teisha Jones, The Lehigh Valley Humane Society and Vet Clinic Stephanie Kane, CPA, RKL LLP Michael Keller, Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. Jason Kiesel, Lehigh Valley IronPigs Melissa F. King, Northampton Post Acute Frank Lawler, Quadrant Capital Cody Lichtenwalner, Fellowship Community Dustin A. Lukitsch, The Birches of Lehigh Valley Shaun Marakovits, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Monique Saunders Moreno, Lehigh Valley Community Foundation Stephanie Muzzey, BLOK Design Group Asaf R. Galeano Paniagua, The Nine Four Group Craig W. Peoples, Morgan Stanley Mathew Pezon, Pezon Properties Jessica Reimert, Community Action Lehigh Valley Michelle Veresink Richmond, ArtsQuest Theodore J. Schick, Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo Tyler Seiferheld, CPA, Lang Faylor Chomo & Company PC Amanda Shanaberger, Baker Tilly Youseff Tannous, KeyBank Tyler Troutman, SAGE Design-Build, Inc. Mike Warch, Valley National Financial Advisors Whitney M. Wasem, Lehigh Valley Health Network- Lehigh Valley Physician’s Group Jeremy Zambelli, Samsung Biologics America
United Way Community Schools create a pathway to success for more than 19,000 students in 33 of the region’s highest-need schools by focusing on students’ basic needs and building trusting relationships with children and their families.
That’s why Dan Barnes, Executive Chair of the Barnes Family Foundation, and his wife Susan were the first individual donors to join United Way in providing the resources for Community Schools in Bethlehem Area School District more than a decade ago – first at Donegan Elementary School and now at Northeast Middle School.
“We grew up in families where access to a good education was a family affair. It was viewed as foundational to success, a fundamental right of every child and a community responsibility. United Way has taken that concept to a whole new level, and it is so inspiring to see the amazing improvements for the students,” said Dan.
Heralded as a “model that works” by the U.S. Secretary of Education, United Way Community Schools report significant improvements in student attendance, family engagement and ultimately academic growth and achievement.
“We hope many more donors will join this movement to adopt a school and help United Way to continue to expand this extraordinary program,” added Susan. “It is an honor to be part of this nationally recognized initiative.”
