United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Launches Slate Belt Angels Fund to Honor Legacy and Expand Impact
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley proudly announces the creation of the Slate Belt Angels Fund at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, a permanent endowment honoring the mission of the Episcopal Apartments of the Slate Belt. For decades, the Episcopal Apartments provided safe, stable housing and supportive services for older adults in the Slate Belt region. This new fund ensures that legacy lives on, expanding access to essential programs that improve health, housing and quality of life for rural communities.
“This fund is a remarkable act of trust and partnership, and we are honored to steward it,” said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Together with the Slate Belt Angels, we are building on a long legacy of service to create lasting, measurable change in the lives of older adults in the region.”
The Slate Belt Angels embodies the true spirit of community building. With this multi-million-dollar investment, the newly established fund ensures that the founders’ vision of supporting safe, stable housing and services for older adults continues to thrive in perpetuity. The fund is designed to strengthen and expand rural impact in the Slate Belt, with a lasting focus on housing, health and education.
“This fund is more than a financial investment — it’s a promise to the Slate Belt community that older adults will have access to the housing, healthcare and support they deserve for generations to come,” stated Robin Zmoda, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Board of Directors Member and Borough Manager and Treasurer for the Borough of Pen Argyl, Pa.
Interest funds from the endowed gift will be invested in programs that support older adults living in the Pen Argyl and Bangor Area School District catchment area to ensure the original mission continues to guide the work ahead.
Short-term goals include funding local programs that serve older adults to carry on the Episcopal Apartments’ legacy. Long-term, the fund will grow through leveraged dollars and new partnerships, serving as a catalyst for rural investment in the Slate Belt for generations.
“We are looking forward to benefiting Seniors in the Slate Belt on a long-term basis with the assistance of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley,” stated Dave Ceraul, Slate Belt Angels.
Community outreach events are scheduled to take place throughout summer and fall 2025 to raise awareness and gather local input on what is needed in the region to ensure that older adults are thriving. Residents can attend the next event in Weona Park in Pen Argyl on August 3 from 6-8 p.m. to help shape this important investment.
To learn more about the Slate Belt Angels Fund or attend an upcoming event, contact Carmen Bell at [email protected] or 610-807-5717.