United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Lehigh Valley Justice Institute Announce Merger
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to announce a formal merger with the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute (LVJI), a nonpartisan research, policy and advocacy organization working to build a more equitable and effective criminal justice system, while addressing the social determinants of criminal justice.
Founded in 2020 to shine a light on systemic gaps and opportunities, Lehigh Valley Justice Institute uses research and data to drive local change across the Lehigh Valley’s criminal justice processes. Their mission is to serve as a flashlight, illuminating where policy and programmatic solutions can positively impact outcomes.
“Today’s merger with United Way, one of the largest nonprofits of the region, is a testament to the trusted and impactful work which LVJI has performed. Marrying LVJI’s data analysis skills with the ability of United Way to collect primary source data through their many initiatives in the region, will result in the delivery of the highest quality and most impactful approaches to resolving inequities in our Lehigh Valley,” remarked Lehigh Valley Justice Institute Executive Director Joe Welsh, who will continue to provide expertise and guidance throughout the merger and serve on the United Way Board of Directors.
Support for this merger is provided by Lehigh Valley Justice Institute board members Richard Master of MCS Industries and Charlie Marcon of Duggan & Marcon and their families. Their founding support and continued generosity have made this transition possible, ensuring that the Institute’s impact will continue for years to come.
“We’re so grateful to the Masters and the Marcons for their sustained commitment to the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute at United Way. Their generous support provides the resources so that the important research and advocacy work will continue to create a positive impact on the criminal justice system for many, many years into the future. We are honored and humbled by their trust to continue to steward and grow this important work,” said United Way President and Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko.
This partnership ensures long-term sustainability, enhanced research capacity and reduced administrative costs, ensuring the work not only continues but expands. It also deepens United Way’s commitment to data-driven strategies and community-informed policy that support its core focus areas of education, housing, mental health and healthy aging.
“The work of the Justice Institute clearly points to the connection between criminal justice and social issues, such as education, mental health and housing insecurity. Through this merger, we will provide policy proposals which can be implemented at the local level to address many of the most vexing social justice issues. That is the power of this strategic partnership,” added Richard Master.
Combining rigorous data research with signature geospatial analysis skills, LVJI’s public reports have led to many tangible results including:
- $200,000 in funding from Lehigh County for relief for families with children facing evictions
- $250,000 in increased funding for Community Intervention Specialists from Lehigh County,
- $1,000,000 in funding to support a new youth center in Allentown
- New Allentown Police Department plans for a public dashboard on their website
- Decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana in Easton
Through this merger, United Way welcomes three new employees, including Associate Vice President Victoria Wrigley, who will continue to build upon the Justice Institute’s solid base of accomplishment.
LVJI’s research work also provides meaningful opportunities for partnerships with several local academic institutions, including Northampton Community College, Moravian University, and the Marcon Institute at Lehigh University.
“In sum, this merger will enhance the efforts of both organizations and heighten the collective impact which we will have on the path of ensuring safe, healthy and equitable communities,” said Charlie Marcon.
With shared values and a commitment to collaboration, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute are positioned to build a community where every person belongs and every person thrives.