BETHLEHEM, Pa. – United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will wrap up its latest fundraising campaign as it recognizes donors, volunteers and community partners during its annual Celebration of Caring on Thursday, April 11, at the ArtsQuest Center.
This year’s drive was led by Tony and Adrienne DaRe of Bethlehem-based BSI Corporate Benefits.
The prior year’s campaign raised a record $22.6 million; the new amount will be revealed during the Celebration of Caring, and the DaRes, of Easton, will pass the baton to the next campaign chairs.
The United Way also will recognize several people and organizations. Its highest honor, the PPL Live United Award, will go to HNL Lab Medicine “for their increased support and dedication to improving the lives of those in need across the region,” the United Way said.
HNL is the first corporate partner to offer a matching gift through donations made by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley staff.
United Way spokeswoman Laura McHugh says the agency has 100 percent participation with staff members donating to the annual campaign. The $70,000 raised in-house is being matched by Allentown-based HNL, which generates lab results for about 3 million patients and 12,000 health care providers each year.
“Our United Way staff gives through their work but they also give back through their personal investment as well,” McHugh said. “This was really a creative way to recognize the United Way staff not only for all they do in the community, but also to recognize us as donors because we believe in it so much. It's a real point of pride.”
“Our United Way staff gives through their work but they also give back through their personal investment as well.”
Laura McHugh, associate vice president of marketing and communications
Besides HNL Lab Medicine’s matching program, the company this year increased its own employee contributions to United Way by 87 percent over the prior year.
This year’s celebration also will mark the retirement of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley President David Lewis and installment of his successor, Marci Lesko, who has served as chief operating officer.
"Celebration of Caring embodies the collaborative spirit and profound impact achieved through the dedication of United Way donors, volunteers and partners, positively impacting the lives of over 175,000 individuals this year," Lesko said in a news release.
The United Way said the following will also be honored April 11:
Quadrant Capital - Campaign Chairs’ Award
Presented to a company that has demonstrated leadership and innovation during United Way’s campaign and an ability to increase awareness throughout the Lehigh Valley.
Veronica Gonzalez and Valley Health Partners - Community Builder Award
Presented to an individual or organization that supports United Way in its community-building efforts, encourages cooperation, contributes talent and resources to further partnerships, creates a common ground and perseveres in the face of challenges.
Valley Youth House - Air Products Leonard Pool Impact Award
Presented by Air Products, the Leonard Pool Impact Award recognizes a nonprofit organization that demonstrates commitment to exceptional community leadership, outstanding stewardship of community resources, active and meaningful volunteer engagement and strategic impact on the Lehigh Valley community.
The Celebration of Caring is a ticketed event that’s open to the public. Registration is required and costs $60. Visit unitedwayglv.org/UWCelebrates or email UWCelebrates@unitewayglv.org to register or call 610-807-5708 with questions.