This year’s theme, “Believe in Tomorrow”, certainly held true for 2020-2021 United Way of the Bradford Area Inc. campaign that has finally come to a close.
Faced with challenges of an international pandemic, the UWBA campaign led by Eric, Suzi and Leo Marasco, Kelsey Obermeyer and Michelle Skaggs did not let that intimidate them.
Campaign Co-Chairs, Eric and Suzi Marasco, said, “We are happy with the outcome of the 2020-2021 United Way campaign, and are proud to announce that we have met 93% of our goal amount of $300,000 for the Bradford community and 100% for both the Smethport and Port Allegany area goals of $7,500 and $15,000.”
The Marascos said they are eager to disperse the funds so needed in the community.
“We recognize that continuing to advocate for the UWBA’s mission and goals within the surrounding area is an important focus in the years to come. We hope that our passion for helping others will continue to have a positive impact on our communities and look forward to continuing our involvement with the United Way in the future,” the couple said.
Jodie Wagner, president of the board of directors of the United Way of the Bradford Area Inc., shared, “I am so proud of our campaign team and executive director for all of their creativity this year. Being open to new ideas and ways to promote the United Way has been essential during the pandemic. Everyone remained positive, engaged, and supportive. Although we were excited to try new things this year, we are also hopeful to get back to some things we missed this year, such as on-site employee campaigns.”
Executive Director Sarah Lonzi concluded by saying, “I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work beside such a supportive campaign team and board of directors. This year proved just how strong our communities are here in McKean County and their extraordinary way of banding together to help one another in times of need. I would like to extend a very gracious thank you to the donors, company campaign representative, volunteers and partners of the UWBA, because of you we are able join together to carry out our mission of supporting our communities.”
Funds raised through the United Way campaign provide critical resources to over 20 partner agencies who are then able to carry out upwards of 40 community programs across the Bradford, Smethport and Port Allegany areas.
For more information on the local United Way, contact the office or visit www.uwbanews.org.
