By Maddie Seiler, CNP Vice President of Marketing & Communications, United Way of Lancaster County, seiler@uwlanc.org
For one hundred years, United Way of Lancaster County has been a cornerstone of community collaboration, uniting individuals, businesses, and organizations to drive meaningful impact across the county. Since its inception in 1925, the organization has focused on advancing education, economic mobility and health, creating a foundation for a thriving community.
Local businesses have been instrumental in this journey, providing unwavering support through donations, employee campaigns, and community initiatives. These stakeholders have played pivotal roles in sustaining United Way’s mission. Their contributions have not only funded critical programs but also fostered a culture of giving and civic responsibility.
One notable initiative is the Summer Youth Experience, a partnership with the Rotary Club of Lancaster, which offers grants to nonprofits providing STEAM-focused educational programs for youth aged 5-16. This program exemplifies United Way’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for underserved communities. Additionally, the Nurse-Family Partnership, in collaboration with Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, has been a vital resource for first-time mothers, offering support from registered nurses to build healthier futures for families. These programs reflect United Way’s holistic approach to community wellbeing.
United Way’s impact extends beyond individual programs. In 2024, the organization commemorated the distribution of over $2.2 million through 57 grants to 45 local organizations. This funding supports a diverse array of initiatives aimed at addressing the community’s most pressing needs, reinforcing United Way’s role as a catalyst for positive change.
A fun and spirited highlight of United Way of Lancaster County’s fundraising efforts in Trike Race, an annual event that brings together local businesses and community partners in a lighthearted competition for a good cause. Teams race adult-sized tricycles through a lively course, raising awareness and funds for United Way’s programs and initiatives. The race not only showcases community camaraderie but also reflects the organization’s unique ability to combine fun with purpose.
As we celebrate this centennial milestone, the partnership between businesses and community organizations remains vital. By continuing to invest in these collaborations, we can ensure a prosperous future for Lancaster County, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Looking Back on 100 Years of Caring
We trace our history in Lancaster to 1925, but the seeds of our organization were planted much earlier.
The year was 1887, and a priest, a rabbi and two preachers met in Denver, Colorado to develop a systemic approach to giving, and providing charity at a higher level. Joining forces, they launched one of the nation’s first combined fundraising campaigns, generating $21,700–a large sum then–that was allocated to ten local health and welfare agencies. This was the beginning of United Way, one of America’s most remarkable charitable organizations.
More than a century later, United Way has become the principal mechanism through which people can be fully involved, directly and personally, in improving the quality of life in their community.
To read the full Historical Timeline go to: https://www.uwlanc.org/who-we- are/#history
About United Way of Lancaster County
Founded in 1925, United Way of Lancaster County is dedicated to advancing education, economic mobility, and health by mobilizing resources, people, and organizations.
Through strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives, United Way addresses critical challenges and fosters lasting change across the region.
Get Involved
Businesses and individuals can engage with United Way by participating in workplace campaigns, advocating, volunteering, or contributing to the Centennial Campaign, which aims to raise $5 million to support ongoing and future initiatives. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.uwlanc.org.
Save the Date
Join us in celebrating a century of impact, innovation and inclusion at the Centennial Celebration on October 25, 2025, at the Lancaster County Convention Center. This event will honor the achievements of the past and look forward to a future of continued collaboration and community strength.
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