United Way of Monroe County celebrated its 75th Anniversary on Wednesday, July 5th at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Pocono Manor. The event raised $55,000 to kick-off United Way’s 2017 Campaign to a great start, while bringing together companies – including major sponsors Sanofi Pasteur, Weiler Abrasives and others – non-profits, and over 200 guests, including volunteers, donors, and community leaders.

The night highlighted United Way of Monroe County’s new motto, which was launched at the event and brings a relevance that is deeply needed in Monroe County today: “Together. More than ever.”

Left to right: Michael Albert, President and CEO, United Way of Monroe County; Linda McDonald: Volunteer of the Year; Matt Connell and Erin Ward, NCC – Monroe Campus: Partner of the Year.

The event featured “75 Reasons to Celebrate”, focusing on United Way of Monroe County’s accomplishments over the last 75 years, as well as those that have come together to help individuals in need in Monroe County.

Several awards were presented to outstanding individuals and partners, including Linda McDonald: Volunteer of the Year; Northampton Community College, Monroe Campus: Partner of the Year; and Paul and Judy Schuchman, who received United Way of Monroe County’s highest philanthropic award: The Dr. Joseph and Dr. Rose Mattioli Philanthropy Award.

Paul and Judy Schuchman show their state citations for receiving the Mattioli Philanthropy Award

United Way used the event to launch two new initiatives: Women United – a network of dynamic and diverse women working together to make Monroe County a stronger community through philanthropy, advocacy and volunteerism, and 2-1-1 – a statewide 24 hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week information and referral service that can be reached through this easy-to-remember toll-free number. 2-1-1 is possible through a collaboration between United Way of Monroe County, Pocono Alliance, Family Service Association of NEPA, and United Way of Pennsylvania. “We are thrilled to announce that PoconoInfo is now 2-1-1,” stated President & CEO of United Way of Monroe County, Michael Albert. “More than ever, we need to combine our passion and dedication to bring about the change that can only happen when people are united in purpose. 2-1-1 would not be possible without this type of collaborative effort. Now, those looking for assistance in Monroe County need only dial toll-free 2-1-1 to speak directly with a local case worker to find help available right here in our community.”

United Way also launched its new website, which was developed by local marketing firm, Unify Interactive. The motto “Together. More than ever” and the new website highlight United Way’s recent shift to focusing on specific issues through targeted community collaborations as an approach to achieving greater positive impact in Monroe County. People can visit the new site to learn more about United Way or to see how they too can get involved in helping to solve some of the most pressing issues affecting our community.