News

Mindful Morning: Bringing Art and Connection to Caregivers and Adults with Dementia

September 27, 2024

Mindful Morning participants gathered at Allentown Art Museum

Mindful Morning participants participating in mindful project and getting a tour of Allentown Art Museum

Mindful Morning participants participating in mindful project at the Allentown Art Museum

Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley table with light refreshments at Allentown Art Museum

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.

News

Together with partners, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley hosts Voter Engagement Webinar for Nonprofits

September 26, 2024

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.

graphic - empowering nonprofits for voter engagement

Download the PowerPoint Slide Deck

For more information, contact Maggie Walters.

Together, let’s empower our community through informed and engaged voter participation.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Celebrates Double Win at 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Awards for Impactful Community Initiatives

September 24, 2024

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)

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley's 2 Emmys

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.

News

Over 2,300 Volunteers UNITE to Transform the Valley in a Single Day of Service at United Way’s 31st Day of Caring, Presented by Crayola

September 19, 2024

VOLUNTEERS

NONPROFITS

AMAZING DAY

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.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley 2024 Campaign Chair Chris Martin of Martin Guitar and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley CEO Marci Lesko pose together during Day of Caring 2024

Chris Martin of Martin Guitar, Katarah Jordan of Boys and Girls Club of Allentown, Marci Lesko of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Laurie Hackett of Air Products during United Way's Day of Caring 2024

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley 2024 Campaign Chair Chris Martin of Martin Guitar holding a Volunteers at work here sign during Day of Caring 2024

Man with a wheelbarrow during Day of Caring 2024

View the full photo gallery

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Celebrates National Coordinators Appreciation Week

September 16, 2024

Flowers and a card for Amanda, Community School Coordinator at William Penn elementary school in the Bethlehem Area School District

Amanda, Community School Coordinator at William Penn elementary school in the Bethlehem Area School District

Flowers and a card for Eliza, Community School Coordinator at Northeast Middle School in the Bethlehem Area School District

Eliza, Community School Coordinator at Northeast Middle School in the Bethlehem Area School District

Eliza, Community School Coordinator at Northeast Middle School in the Bethlehem Area School District. The teachers at NEMS also decorated her office and showed appreciation for Coordinator Appreciation Week

Flowers and a card for Martha, Community School Coordinator at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in the Bethlehem School District

Martha, Community School Coordinator at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in the Bethlehem School District

Flowers and a card for Jeffery, Community School Coordinator at Washington Elementary in the Allentown School District

Jeffery Community School Coordinator at Washington Elementary in the Allentown School District

Flowers and a card for Denasia, Community School Coordinator at Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary School in the Allentown School District

Denasia, Community School Coordinator at Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary School in the Allentown School District

Flowers and a card for Jamie, Community School Coordinator at Ramos Elementary School in the Allentown School District

Jamie serves as Community School Coordinator at Ramos Elementary School in the Allentown School District

Yasainee, Community School Coordinator at Roosevelt Elementary School in the Allentown School District.

Francis D. Raub Middle School in the Allentown School District

Olga, Community School Coordinator at Francis D. Raub Middle School in the Allentown School District

Olga, Community School Coordinator at Francis D. Raub Middle School in the Allentown School District receives birthday balloons

Community School Coordinator at Sheridan Elementary School in the Allentown School District, Nancy

Flowers for Anais, Community School Coordinator at Broughal Middle School in the Bethlehem Area School District

Kara, Community School Coordinator at Mosser elementary school in the Allentown School District

Flowers for Rosa, Community School Coordinator at Donegan Elementary School in the Bethlehem Area School District

Deja Community School Coordinator at Central Elementary School in the Allentown School District

Gena Holmes, Community School Coordinator at Lincoln elementary in BASD

Phebe, Community School Coordinator at Harrison Morton middle school in the Allentown School District

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

GRAPHIC - community schools stat - 19,814 students served in 33 schools in 5 districts

6 LEAD PARTNERS

23+ FUNDING PARTNERS

24 COMMUNITY 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.

graphic - coordinators appreciation week

News

United Way’s Shaun Marakovits named one of Lehigh Valley Business’ 2024 Forty Under 40 Honorees

September 12, 2024

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

News

Championing Education: The Barnes Family Foundation’s Legacy with United Way Community Schools

September 10, 2024

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.”

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Opens Applications for the Youth Mental Health Innovation Grant

September 09, 2024

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is calling on passionate young leaders as well as nonprofit organizations to apply for the Youth Mental Health Innovation Grant.

Nearly 40% of Lehigh Valley youth have struggled with feelings of depression in the past year. Addressing mental health challenges early on helps young people thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, ensuring they have the support needed to reach their full potential. Prioritizing mental health is key to fostering a healthier, more resilient generation.

This grant is designed to support innovative projects that prioritize and enhance the mental well-being of young people. Whether you have a groundbreaking idea or an established initiative in need of expansion, this is your opportunity to secure the resources you need to make a real difference.

We’re looking for projects that provide support, foster resilience and create positive change whether that is through activities, projects, programs or campaigns. We welcome all ideas built on strengthening youth mental health in our community. Your vision could help shape a future where every young person has access to the mental health resources they need to thrive.

There are two grant opportunities available:

Mini-grants for youth-led projects: This opportunity is designed to support youth-led mental health initiatives. Open to young people ages 12-22, mini-grants up to $5,000 will be available to young leaders and their peers for programs, activities, campaigns or projects that support improved youth mental health. Applicants must apply with the support of a nonprofit partner or supporting school and have an advisor to support them in the work.
Nonprofit youth mental health innovation grants: Grants will also be available to nonprofits to support programs, activities, campaigns or projects that lead to improved youth mental health. We’re especially interested in supporting projects or solutions that approach youth mental health in new or creative ways. This can include programs that support opportunities to grow socially and emotionally, build coping and social skills, or develop social-emotional skills, peer support, outreach, awareness building, or direct services. Grants will range between $5,000-$20,000, with most anticipated at the $10,000 level.

This grant will fund programming for one year, January 2025 – December 2025.

Applications opened on Monday, September 9, 2024. This grant will fund agencies and programs for one year, January 2025 – December 2025.

To learn more about the United for Veterans Mental Health Grant, please visit www.unitedwayglv.org/youth-mental-health.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Announces the United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant

September 09, 2024

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley announces the 2024 United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant designed to support programs that directly address veterans’ mental health in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon Counties. A priority of this grant opportunity is to support veterans in rural communities.

Veterans’ mental health is a critical issue that requires ongoing attention and support. Many veterans face unique challenges, including the transition from military to civilian life, exposure to traumatic events and the physical and emotional scars of combat. These experiences can lead to a range of mental health issues, such as PTSD, depression and anxiety. Approximately 5.4% of the Lehigh County population are veterans. One in four veterans meet the diagnostic criteria for a mental health issue. Unfortunately, stigma and barriers to accessing care often prevent veterans from seeking the help they need. By providing comprehensive and accessible mental health services, we can better support our veterans and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve.

United for Veterans’ Mental Health is a new grantmaking initiative open to Lehigh Valley nonprofit organizations that provide support and mental health programming to veterans. Grants between $5,000 – $20,000 will be available for programs that support veterans’ mental health in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon Counties. This can include peer support, connection to resources, programs that remove barriers to accessing resources, outreach efforts and more. Funding for programs that support veterans living in rural communities will be prioritized.

Applications opened on Monday, September 9, 2024. This grant will fund agencies and programs for one year, January 2025 – December 2025.

To learn more about the United for Veterans Mental Health Grant, please visit www.unitedwayglv.org/united-for-veterans.

News

InnaStar Empowers Marginalized Creators to Find Their Voices Through the Power of Storytelling

September 05, 2024

With the support of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s Fund for Racial Justice and Equity (FRJE) grant, InnaStar is on a mission to uplift and empower individuals through the transformative power of storytelling. Founded on the belief that every story holds the potential to heal, inspire and drive change, InnaStar is helping people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, find their voices and turn their pain into purpose.

InnaStar, founded in 2022 by film producer, author and actress Jacinth Headlam, is a nonprofit organization that works with people of all ages to achieve their goals through self-development and creative workshops, performing arts programming, mentorship and wellness check-ins.

Through various initiatives, InnaStar guides individuals in discovering their inner strength, building self-confidence and channeling their experiences into positive outcomes. The organization’s unique approach to empowerment through storytelling allows participants to reclaim their narratives, transforming personal challenges into stories of triumph.

With the support of the United Way’s FRJE grant, InnaStar continues to break new ground in empowering individuals through various initiatives and programs.

One of InnaStar’s signature programs is the Trailblazer Awards, an annual event that celebrates and honors individuals who have made significant strides in their personal and professional lives, serving as role models for others in the community. This year’s award ceremony is on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Miller Symphony Hall in Allentown.

The grant has also funded workshops like the Acting/On-Camera workshop and the InnaStar Glow: Confidence Workshop, both of which teach students valuable skills in public speaking, presentation and self-expression. These classes have not only been conducted locally but have also had an international impact, reaching students in Nigeria and the Cayman Islands.

With support from the FRJE grant, InnaStar hosted its first annual Holiday Community Celebration in 2023, which offered a full day of fun, food, music, games, prizes and creativity for children and their families.

The expansion of InnaStar’s initiatives in 2024 marks a significant milestone for the organization. One of the most exciting developments is the introduction of empowerment workshops for older adults, which focuses on helping them rediscover their confidence and identity in their later years. The workshop concludes with a makeover and award show, reinforcing the nonprofit’s belief in the power of the arts to uplift every community member. Recognizing that seniors are often overlooked, InnaStar is committed to ensuring this demographic is seen, heard, and valued.

In addition to local initiatives, InnaStar is dedicated to making a global impact. The organization’s mission trip to Nigeria, in partnership with The Rilyc and Cleverminds Educational Foundation, brought filmmaking and storytelling workshops to children, leaving a lasting positive impact on their lives. These experiences, both local and global, are testaments to InnaStar’s commitment to empowering individuals through creative expression.

Looking forward, InnaStar aims to expand and deepen its reach within the community. With plans to further engage with older adults, expand the Trailblazer Awards and explore new partnerships, the organization is poised to make an even greater impact in the coming years.

“The FRJE grant has been instrumental in our growth and ability to reach more people,” said Headlam. “Whether it’s empowering middle school students to write and produce their own short films or helping seniors find new purpose and joy, the support from the United Way has made a profound difference.”

InnaStar’s work highlights the incredible potential within each person and the transformative power of storytelling. Through the support of the FRJE grant, the United Way and its partners are not just investing in an organization; they are investing in the futures of countless individuals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to shine.

United Way awarded the following local organizations with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 through the FRJE:

Cohesion Network
Epoch Tribe
Financial Literacy Center of the Lehigh Valley
Fine Feather Foundation Inc.
Global Hope International
Greater Community Development Corp.
InnaStar
Juneteenth Lehigh Valley
Lycan Media
LatinosARE
Lehigh Valley Black Church Housing Alliance
Light on the Horizon
Mother2Mother Inc.
Movement Moves Media
Resurrected Community Development Inc.
SELF!
The Rilyc
The Rising Sun Initiative
The Thrive Hub Inc.
Unidos Inc.
Vet Beds

Grant funding is made possible thanks to partners and donors who directed their support to the Fund for Racial Justice and Equity, including PPL Foundation, Crayola, Behr, Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation, Truist, Lehigh Valley Community Foundation and United Way Women United.

Learn more about United Way and the FRJE grant program by visiting our Fund for Racial Justice and Equity page.

News

Mindful Morning: Bringing Art and Connection to Caregivers and Adults with Dementia

News

Together with partners, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley hosts Voter Engagement Webinar for Nonprofits

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Celebrates Double Win at 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Awards for Impactful Community Initiatives

News

Over 2,300 Volunteers UNITE to Transform the Valley in a Single Day of Service at United Way’s 31st Day of Caring, Presented by Crayola

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Celebrates National Coordinators Appreciation Week

SEE THE IMPACT

News

United Way’s Shaun Marakovits named one of Lehigh Valley Business’ 2024 Forty Under 40 Honorees

News

Championing Education: The Barnes Family Foundation’s Legacy with United Way Community Schools

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Opens Applications for the Youth Mental Health Innovation Grant

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Announces the United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant

News

InnaStar Empowers Marginalized Creators to Find Their Voices Through the Power of Storytelling

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