Centre County United Way’s 2024 Campaign raised $1,245,459, the organization revealed during a celebration on Tuesday night at Centre Care in College Township.
“I am delighted with this year’s results and want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed, whether through financial gifts, volunteer work or advocacy,” Megan Evans, CCUW interim director, said.
Penn State’s campaign was once again a significant contributor to the fundraising, accounting for 42% of the total by raising $525,941. CCUW has for decades been the university’s designated charity of choice, and its campus-wide campaign includes special fundraising events and options for employees to make pledges through payroll deductions.
Faye Chadwell, dean of University Libraries and Scholarly Communications, was among the more than 150 people on hand at Tuesday’s celebration and revealed the Penn State fundraising total. Chadwell credited university employees on the campaign steering committee for their efforts.
“Penn State takes pride in supporting CCUW, our charity of choice for more than 40 years,” Chadwell said.
The “Above and Beyond” award for outstanding corporate partner was presented to State College Wegmans manager Adam Fleming by Ja Nae Wian, CCUW campaign and relationship manager, who also acknowledged the other local businesses in Centre County that supported the campaign.
The funds raised from the 2024 campaign will support programs offered by CCUW’s 24 partner agencies, which help community members with resources related to health, financial stability, education and other needs.
While about 17% of the county’s population is considered low-income, another 30% are what is known as ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. They play a vital role in the community and local economy, but struggle to make ends meet, and donations to the CCUW are important to their well-being, according to the organization.
“We are striving to provide every person in Centre County with the opportunity to thrive, and we cannot achieve this without the community,” Tama Carey, CCUW 2024 board chair, said. “United is the way.”
