Zippo Manufacturing Co. and Zippo employees will be honored with the Red Feather volunteer award at a luncheon on May 3rd, The United Way of the Bradford Area officials announced Friday.

“The impact that both the company and its employees have made on the local United Way — since the company’s earliest days — is so grand. I cannot begin to acknowledge both entities enough for their contributions and continued support of what we do to support the community,” said Executive Director Mandi Wilton Davis.  

Davis said that both receiving entities embody what the Red Feather award stands for.  

“This was implemented to honor outstanding individuals or businesses who have made an impact on the United Way, and the local community as a whole, through their day-to-day selfless attitude and commitment to exemplify our mission of enhancing the quality of life in the areas we serve.  

“I think everyone will agree that our recipients are well-deserving of this honor,” she said.

Davis also said that there is a high level of commitment from the employees, who are not only supportive of the UWBA monetarily, but who hold positions on the board of directors, volunteer at special events, or advocate for the work being done in the Bradford community.  

“This, again, was an expectation of Mr. Blaisdell, that his employees would serve the community, and we are so fortunate that Mr. (George) Duke and Mr. (Mark) Paup continue that tradition today.”  

For his part, Mr. Duke stated, “It is a long standing tradition and part of the Zippo culture to give back to our wonderful community. Throughout all these years, as the United Way of the Bradford Area continues to meet their mission, the company is inspired to match the generous contributions of the employees, who proudly support the United Way.”

The luncheon will begin at noon on May 3 and will be held in the Mukaiyama University Room at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. Reservations are being accepted until April 25.