(Editor's note: This article was originally published in Our Town and is being published here with permission.) 

MARIANNE SPAMPINATO
Our Town Correspondent

United Way of the Laurel Highlands leaders announced a 2022 Campaign goal of $1.2 million during the organization's campaign kickoff breakfast, held Sept. 15 at the Living Learning Center of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

Hope's Story

While Hope isn't a real person, she represents a collection of stories about real community members who were helped by United Way-funded programs, or by UWSA direct services. Follow her silhouette to learn more.

BY RICK KAZMER

United Way of the Laurel Highlands

814 Lanes & Games in Richland Township is helping local nonprofits in a unique way. 

Each quarter the business's team picks a charity to benefit from proceeds of the "Charity Crane," located just inside the bowling alley and gaming center. 

By taking a chance at winning a prize with skill on the crane, patrons help a nonprofit at work in the community. The United Way of the Laurel Highlands was the charity of choice during the first quarter of 2022. 

BY RICK KAZMER

United Way of the Laurel Highlands

The United Way of the Laurel Highlands reported during the organization's annual meeting May 24 that the 2021-22 Annual Campaign is at 95% of the $1.15 million goal. 

Funds raised through June 30 will count toward the campaign total. United Way staff, board members and community members gathered on Zoom for the organization's meeting, which was used as a time to highlight the year's efforts to help families in Cambria and Somerset Counties. 

BY RICK KAZMER

United Way of the Laurel Highlands

There's a tribe in another part of the world that has a unique greeting. 

According to Greater Johnstown Superintendent Amy Arcurio, they don't say "hello," "what's up" or "how are you?" Instead, she said they ask, "how are your children?" 

Arcurio was the keynote speaker Wednesday at the United Way of the Laurel Highlands 2021 Campaign Kickoff Breakfast in Johnstown. As an educator, she said that she has direct experience with the United Way's impact on children in the community. 

Here's our June 2021 Newsletter. It includes news on our latest round of grant allocations -- more than $859,000 back into the community. You can also meet our new Cambria County Community Relationship Manager. Click here for the news.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS. 

5/19/21 - UNITED WAY OF THE LAUREL HIGHLANDS

Thanks to everyone who participated in the 1st Annual Bob Zahurak Painting Night, which benefited United Way of the Laurel Highlands Women United.

It was hosted by Steelworkers Union 2632, of which Bob was a member.

Bob was a loyal supporter of our work in Cambria and Somerset Counties. Sadly, Bob lost his battle with COVID-19, but his legacy to support us and his community will go on.

The event raised $3,000 for UWLH Women United.