The United Way of the Bradford Area (UWBA) announced the recipients of its prestigious Red Feather Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations for outstanding dedication to community service and support of UWBA’s mission.
The awards ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. May 23 at the Bradford Club with music by Jim Ronan. This year, the Red Feather Award winner is Jason Blatchley, a devoted advocate of the community and longtime supporter of the UWBA.
Blatchley, a counselor at Bradford Area School District, has been actively involved with the UWBA for the past decade, serving as the United Way Student Ambassadors’ advisor. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to volunteerism, both personally and through his work with students, inspiring future generations to give back to their community.
“Being an advocate for the community and supporting organizations like the United Way is crucial for both me and my student ambassadors,” Blatchley said. “Volunteering not only impacts the lives of those we help but also provides invaluable experiences and exposure for students, instilling in them a sense of social responsibility and leadership skills.”
Under Blatchley’s guidance, the United Way Ambassadors have been instrumental in various community engagement initiatives, including Stuff the Truck supply drives, business blitzes, community clean-up days and fundraisers that raised significant amounts for the UWBA campaign.
Additionally, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has been recognized with the Excellence in Representation Award for its ongoing commitment to community advocacy and support of the UWBA. The campus, deeply rooted in the Bradford community for more than six decades, has demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and community engagement, with faculty, staff and students dedicating thousands of hours to local organizations and causes.
“We believe it is important to be community advocates, including supporting the United Way of the Bradford Area, to help promote the future health and viability of the community,” stated a representative from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
Furthermore, Luv Toyota of Bradford will receive the Small Business Award in recognition of its outstanding contributions to the community and support of the UWBA’s initiatives.
“Throughout the years, Luv Toyota has been a steadfast supporter of local organizations, schools and charitable causes, embodying the spirit of corporate citizenship. Their sponsorship of community events, ranging from fundraisers to youth programs, has helped strengthen the fabric of the Bradford community and uplift those in need,” said UWBA Executive Director Sarah Lonzi.
The UWBA and its 2023 campaign team of Zonta Club of Bradford invite members of the community to join in celebrating these awarded winners at the Annual Red Feather Awards ceremony. The event is open to the public for a ticket price of $25, but space is limited. RSVP before May 10 by calling the United Way office at (814) 368-6181 or by email at sarah.lonzi@uwbanews.org.
