BETHLEHEM, Pa. — United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley again set a record in this year's annual fundraising campaign, eclipsing last year's total by nearly $1.5 million.
The $27,731,984 raised this year tops last year's record of $26,231,833.
When including donations to United Way’s Critical Support Fund and contributions through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit program, United Way raised $30,436,542 this year.
It was the 16th consecutive year of growth for the campaign, led this year by campaign co-chairs Mike Molewski of CAPTRUST financial advisors and his wife, Diane.
The results of the campaign were announced at a gathering of hundreds who celebrated Thursday night in ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks during the United Way’s Celebration of Caring.
The campaign ran from April 2025 to March of this year.
“As one of seven children and the first in my family to attend college, I know how hard it is to reach your goals when you’re just trying to make ends meet,” Molewski said in a news release.
“I was fortunate to receive support from mentors who greatly influenced the path of my life. Diane and I are proud to be a part of the life-changing programs at United Way that empower so many in the Lehigh Valley to achieve their dreams.”
'Move at the speed of need'
The United Way said the money raised will help nearly 250,000 people through education, healthy aging and community stability.
“This year, our community showed what it means to respond with care and consistency,” United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko said.
“What stayed true throughout was our responsibility to respond with care and to move at the speed of need.
"Mike and Diane’s leadership, generosity and long history of dedication helped set the tone for this campaign and inspired others to step up in meaningful ways.”
Celebrating community impact
Thursday's event celebrated organizations and individuals who have made a significant impact in the community in partnership with United Way.
“United Way’s work is made possible by partners, donors and volunteers who continue to show up for this community,” United Way Board Chairman Joe Savage, Victaulic chief financial officer said.
“That kind of responsiveness is built on strong partnerships and deep trust. When challenges intensified for families and nonprofit partners, we stayed steady by providing flexible support, listening closely and acting quickly so people could
continue to access the resources they rely on.”
PPL Corp. employees, retirees and corporate foundation contributed more than $10 million this year — a first for the local United Way and its fifth consecutive year raising more than $5 million in support of the community.
Air Products raised more than $5 for the fifth straight year. City Center Group, Crayola, CAI, Victaulic, CAPTRUST Financial Advisors–Allentown and Keel Infrastructure each raised more
$1 million.
Award recipients Thursday included:
PPL Live United Award — B. Braun Medical Inc.
Campaign Chair’s Award — Dan and Susan Barnes
Community Builder Award — Greater Community Development Corporation
Air Products Leonard Pool Impact Award — The Century Promise
Lifetime Achievement Award — Robert and Susan Gadomski
