United Way progresses toward $1M annual goal, welcomes new staff

The United Way of Lebanon County launched its annual Giving Campaign in September, and as of Oct. 5, had already raised $200,000 of its ambitious $1 million goal aimed at bolstering community initiatives.

The annual Giving Campaign runs from September through June.

“Right now local companies are planning and implementing their United Way Workplace Campaigns, which are a cornerstone of our annual Giving Program,” said Bert Miuccio, who joined the organization as executive director earlier this year.

Miuccio said these campaigns are largely organized by local companies between October and December and form the bedrock of the annual Giving Program.

Henise Tire owner and United Way of Lebanon County board member Julie Smyth said in a press release that the Workplace Campaign is a gratifying way for companies to give back to the community.

“We make it engaging and fun for our team, and we know that our contributions help our neighbors in need today while building a better future for everyone in Lebanon County,” said Smyth.

Proceeds fund the United Way’s Community Impact Grants and maintain signature service programs like Communities in Schools, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, and the 211 Resource Referral Hotline.

Contributors donating $100 or more stand a chance to win prizes including YMCA memberships, jewelry, gift certificates, and more. Financial support for the campaign is provided by WellSpan Health, the Francis J. Dixon Foundation, Penn State Health, Jonestown Bank and Trust, and UPMC Health.

In addition to welcoming Miuccio as its executive director earlier this year, the United Way of Lebanon County also hired Samuel Light as the communications and events manager.

“The United Way has a 70-year history in Lebanon County,” said Miuccio. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to help build on that tradition and increase its impact on the community in the years ahead and to the many people who have made me feel so welcome in my new role.”

Light echoed the sentiment. “I’ve been a member of the Lebanon County community my entire life,” he said. “I’m excited to be a part of an organization that impacts my community in a positive way.

“I’m also thankful to those who contributed to the campaign thus far, to the volunteers who are leading the charge, to our generous campaign sponsors and the companies that donated prized to be awarded to a dozen lucky contributors next July.”

For those wishing to organize a Workplace Campaign or make personal contributions, Bert Miuccio can be reached at (717) 273-814. Find more information about United Way of Lebanon County, including ways to give online, at UnitedWayLebCo.org.