Those who invest their time, talent, and treasure in community outcomes are real heroes. Donors and volunteers have a variety of reasons why they do so. Enjoy reading the Whys on this page. Maybe they will inspire you to find your own Why. And if you already have your Why, feel free to share it with us with an email to info@poconounitedway.org.

Linda and Randy Rice, proprietors of Mountain View Vineyard, Winery, Brewery, and Distillery

“Randy & I have been supporting the United Way/Pocono Alliance for almost 10 years!  We support them in several ways…by hosting some of their fundraising events like the United Way’s 80th anniversary with a throwback to the 80’s themed event at our winery, by providing a complimentary wine tasting for guests at their Giving Tuesday event held in November, by making monetary donations, and by supporting their Emerging Leaders group by supporting the participation of 2 of our managers…We appreciate the services funded by the United Way from early childhood screenings to rental assistance programs to assistance with becoming home ownership ready to PoconoInfo hotline to assist folks with obtaining human services in our community… so many great services that were not available to my single mother who raised 5 kids on her own back in the 60’s & 70’s!”

Bob Moses, retired Dean at ESU and community philanthropist:

“I feel each of us has a responsibility, perhaps even an obligation, to give back to the community in which we live, to pay it forward. I once heard a wise person say that ‘service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.’  That quote resonated with me and is something I have strived to do throughout my adult life.”

Shelah Gill, Global R&D Support, Laboratories Software Systems & Solutions, Sanofi:

“I see myself in the condition of others and this impels me to do what’s within my ability to improve the lives of others and address social issues.  It reminds me of what God did for us through His Son. The reason and meaning behind my helping others by giving to United Way flows from Matthew 25:35, ‘For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.'”

Richard Schlameuss, CEO of Monroe County Transit Authority:

“As a former director of a couple United Way funded agencies, I valued the support, coordination, and funding that agency staff and other agencies brought to the community. Because I know the value of the United Way and its importance to our nonprofit community, I continue to be a financial supporter.”

Chris Barrett, CEO of Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau:

“The Pocono Mountains United Way helps each of us to help those in need. They are a critical stakeholder in every sense of the word and deserve our unwavering support in their mission to serve the community.”

Grace D’Amico, retired executive at Sanofi:

“We can do more than wish for a community whose members work and prosper within that supportive community.  We can work with and donate to United Way and its partners to assure that happens.  An amazing side benefit is that time and again it has been realized that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.”

Tim Kresge, retired HR Manager at ESU:

“Please support the Pocono Mountains United Way. If you are unsure what the United Way does, it is simply making people’s lives better in our community. The Pocono Mountain United Way does this through cooperative efforts at the local, state, and national levels.  The team at the United Way is always striving to do more for our community.  Your support makes a difference in the lives of your fellow community members.”

Jamie Schmeelk, CFO of Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau:

“As a single mom, I understand the emotional and financial struggles of raising a family. The UW supports many programs to help moms in need and ensure children have the resources to grow.”

Tameko Patterson, Certified Project Manager at Sanofi:

“The Pocono Mountains United Way has made a profound and lasting impact in my community by tirelessly supporting and empowering individuals and families in need.”

Ben May, President of Pocono Raceway:

“The team at Pocono Mountains United Way cares deeply about our community, understands the needs and develops programs that deliver outcomes and improve the quality of life for our community members”.

Miguel Barbosa, Chief of Staff and VP of Community Relations, ESU:

“Supporting the Pocono Mountains United Way is more than charity; it’s an investment in the heart of our community. Together, we build bridges of hope, shelter those in need, and empower dreams to flourish. When we stand united, the Pocono Mountains thrive, and the future holds endless possibilities for all who call it home.”

Christa Caceres, President of Monroe County NAACP:

“There is no greater gift than to give to others in need and I encourage you to support Tocqueville’s efforts by becoming part of the Society and expand the reach of Pocono Mountains United Way.”

Jill D’Alessandro, VP of Patient Experience, St. Luke’s Hospital – Monroe Campus

“I became a nurse because I always want to help make a difference in peoples lives. Being involved in the Pocono United Way has allowed me the opportunity to volunteer and make a difference, it also has allowed me to connect with others and learn new things in this community.  Nonprofits like the United Way rely on our volunteers to make incredible things happen.  Be part of incredible things, make a difference get out there and volunteer!!”

Don Hannig, President/Owner/Broker of Spread Eagle Realty and SER Commercial Real Estate:

“I have been involved with the Pocono Mountains United Way for 30+ Years. Over that time, PMUW has demonstrated an unmatched local focus of improving the lives of people in Monroe County.”

Debbie Kulick, President at Eastern Monroe Leasing & Training, Inc:

“Pocono Mountains United Way’s programs are vital to so many residents of our region, from the young to the seasoned.  The wide variety of programs and services offered touch the lives of many. The PMUW responds to needs in real time, providing assistance when it is needed most.”