Lehigh Valley United Way Launches New Program

The Lehigh Valley's children in need will reap the rewards of a new fundraising program recently launched by the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

The Bright Futures Fund was founded by Ross and Wendy Born of Just Born, Inc. It allows individuals the opportunity to give a gift of $100 or more to honor a child in their life. The donation will benefit UWGLV's more than 40 agency-delivered programs and strategic initiatives for children in need. These programs target a variety of needs, from tutoring and childcare, to parenting classes and health services.

In return for the donation, the honored child receives a certificate of appreciation with their name on it and a copy of the book The Three Cups by Mark St. Germain with illustrations by April Willy. The central message of the book is: "One cup is for saving, one cup is for spending, and one cup is for charity."

UWGLV hopes parents, grandparents and others will make a donation to the Fund as an annual holiday or birthday gift to the special child or children in their life, thereby creating a culture of giving in their family.

"As United Way partners, caring about others is an important part of our lives," said Ross Born. "Wendy and I model our philanthropic behavior and volunteerism for our children and grandchildren. Contributing to the Bright Futures Fund builds a better community for today and for generations to follow so that everyone can look forward to a bright future."

For more information about the Bright Futures Fund, or to make a donation in the name of a child in your life, contact Vickie Nisbet, Director of Major Gifts, at 610-807-5708 or vickien@unitedwayglv.org.

The mission of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is to provide leadership, create coalitions, and develop resources to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another. Each year, more than 60,000 people in need benefit from the more than 80 programs and services supported by the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. www.unitedwayglv.org