United Way to honor Crayola for campaign contributions

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley plans to honor Crayola of Easton with this year’s PPL LIVE UNITED Award.  

The award will be presented at United Way Celebration of Caring on Wednesday, April 13, to recognize the impact donors, volunteers and partners made throughout the year. 

 “The Greater Lehigh Valley came together to build a stronger community. Celebration of Caring recognizes the collective impact of United Way donors, volunteers and partners,” said United Way Campaign Chair Laurie Hackett, Air Products director of community relations and philanthropy. 

The event, which is also presented by Crayola, celebrates and honors organizations and individuals who have made a significant impact in the community in partnership with United Way. 

The PPL LIVE UNITED Award is the organization’s highest award. It is presented to an organization or company whose engagement in the Lehigh Valley community results in a significant contribution toward improving quality of life for those in need.  

Under President and Chief Executive Officer Rich Wuerthele’s leadership, Crayola contributed more than $1 million during its recent United Way campaign, representing the largest corporate gift and most employee donations in the company’s history. 

Crayola also had a 19% increase in the number of employee donors and utilized creative, innovative ways to motivate giving. 

 “The PPL LIVE UNITED Award is our organization’s highest honor, and Crayola continues to show up as one of our most dedicated partners. They exemplify what it means to ‘LIVE UNITED’ in their commitment to giving back and making a true impact in our community,” said David Lewis, president of UWGLV. 

Just Born of Bethlehem is also being honored at the event. 

It will receive the Campaign Chair’s Award, which is presented to a company that has demonstrated leadership and innovation in conducting its United Way campaign and an ability to increase awareness throughout the Lehigh Valley.