United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley raises record $27.7 million

Listen to this article

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley supporters raised a record-breaking $27,731,984 during this year’s fundraising campaign. 

This is the 16th consecutive year of growth for the campaign.  

This year’s fundraising effort was led by campaign co-chairs CAPTRUST‘s Mike Molewski and his wife Diane.  

When including donations to United Way’s Critical Support Fund and contributions through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit program, United Way raised $30,436,542 in total.  

“As one of seven children and the first in my family to attend college, I know how hard it is to reach your goals when you’re just trying to make ends meet,” said Mike Molewski. “I was fortunate to receive support from mentors who greatly influenced the path of my life. Diane and I are proud to be a part of the life-changing programs at United Way that empower so many in the Lehigh Valley to achieve their dreams.”  

According to the organization United Way’s efforts were able to connect nearly 43,000 students and families with education resources to support learning and growth, increased community stability by ensuring over 178,000 people had access to food, housing and emergency services and supported nearly 8,000 older adults with healthy aging resources that promote health and connection.  

“This year, our community showed what it means to respond with care and consistency,” said Marci Lesko, president and CEO of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. “What stayed true throughout was our responsibility to respond with care and to move at the speed of need. Mike and Diane’s leadership, generosity and long history of dedication helped set the tone for this campaign and inspired others to step up in meaningful ways.”  

The annual campaign ran from April 2025 to March 2026.  

PPL Corp.‘s employees, retirees and corporate foundation contributed more than $10million to this year’s campaign, which is a first for the local United Way and marks the fourth consecutive PPL raised more than $6 million in support of the campaign.  

Air Products raised more than $5 million. City Center Group, Crayola, CAI, Victaulic, CAPTRUST Financial Advisors – Allentown and Keel Infrastructure each raised more than $1million.