.

Home - About Us - Links - Admin News Impact Allocations Goals Volunteers Day of Caring PikePaHelp.org   United Way of Pike County   News Releases Most Recent Previous 2007 2005 2006 2004 Older

News Release Archive 2005

Dr. and Mrs. Henry Goldstein Gift of $2,500 Brings Pike United Way to 50% of Campaign Goal Left to right: Gerry Hansen, Pike United Way Fund Raising Ambassador, Jane Goldstein, Dr. Henry Goldstein, Mike Peifer, President Pike United Way Pike United Way President, Mike Peifer, announced today that the 2005-06 fund raising goal has reached the 50% mark, thanks to a generous donation of $2,500 from Dr. Henry and Mrs. Jane Goldstein. Gerry Hansen, a United Way Fund Raising Ambassador, was also present. The Goldstein's, long time supporters of Pike United Way, have made a generous gift to every annual campaign since 2000. Moreover, they have increased the amount of their gift each year. Dr. Henry Goldstein is a leading ophthalmologist in the tri-state area, and his wife, Jane, is a prominent community volunteer. She is past president of the Friends of Pike County Library, and incoming president of the Milford Garden Club. They are long time supporters of many local charitable organizations. When asked why they have increased the size of their gift to Pike United Way each year, Jane Goldstein said, "We've lived in Pike County for a long time. We raised our daughter here. The county has been good to us and we want to give back. We've watched United Way grow and become an important resource for Pike County social services, and we want to help them in their mission." If you are reading this article and thinking, "but I can't make a big gift. Would a contribution from me matter "? Be assured. Every gift, large or small, is important, and will help us to reach the goal of $125,000. You can make your donation to the United Way of Pike County, by calling TerriAnne at Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax 1-570-296-5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. On-line donations and pledges can also be made from our website at www.unitedwaypike.org by selecting Donations (red button). Our site accepts donations via PayPal or the United Way of America's Click and Give system. More information about services provided by the United Way of Pike County can also be found on its website at www.unitedwaypike.org. United Way of Pike County also sponsors www.pikepahelp.org the website that provides a comprehensive listing of all human services agencies that provide help in our area, along with links to details for all of them that have websites of their own. Again, thanks to Dr. and Mrs. Goldstein for joining Pike United Way in doing "What Matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures." Won't you join them and other Pike County friends and neighbors in this important work? Thank you.

Pennstar Bank Makes Corporate Gift of $2,500 to Pike United Way Left to right: Alan Dolge, Pike United Way Vice President, Raymond Ceccotti, Pennstar Bank Regional Sales Manager, Ted Daniels, Pennstar Bank Business Development Officer, Patty Dolge, Pike United Way Board Member, Mike Peifer, Pike United Way President. In a celebratory moment at the Pike United Way office several days ago, Ted Daniels, Vice President and Business Development Officer of Pennstar Bank, presented a check for $2,500 to Pike United Way President Mike Peifer. Raymond Ceccotti, Pennstar Bank Vice President and Regional Sales Manager, and Patty and Alan Dolge, Pike United Way board members, joined them as they discussed the important and expanding services that each organization is bringing to Pike County. Ted Daniels remarked that: "As Pennstar Bank has grown in Pike County, its expanding role as a commercial force has been accompanied by a strong commitment to help improve the safety net of needed human services in this vital and growing local area". Mike Peifer agreed that: "Pennstar Bank has been an integral part of the Pike United Way annual fund raising campaign since its beginning. We look forward to many years of continuing partnership in service to Pike County and its citizens." United Way of Pike County supports 20 human service organizations and many special programs to help the people of Pike County when they need it. Information about these services can be found on our website at www.unitedwaypike.org. United Way of Pike County also sponsors www.pikepahelp.org, the website that provides a comprehensive listing of virtually all human services agencies that provide help in our area, along with links to details for all of them that have websites of their own. Every gift, to the Pike United Way annual fund raising campaign, large or small, is important, and will help us to reach the goal of $125,000. You can make your donation to the United Way of Pike County, by calling TerriAnne at Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax 1-570-296-5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. On-line donations and pledges can also be made from our website at www.unitedwaypike.org by selecting Donations (red button). Our site accepts donations via PayPal or the United Way of America's Click and Give system. Again, thanks to Pennstar Bank for joining Pike United Way in doing "What Matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures." Won't you join them and other Pike County businesses, friends and neighbors in this important work? Thank you.

Poet, Chuck O'Neil, Donates All Book Proceeds to Pike United Way Chuck O'Neil during one of his poetry readings. Chuck O'Neil is a poet of astonishing talent. His two books of poetry, "The Perfect Scar" and "Eating Out" are miracles of grace and clarity; accessible to those who are not poets themselves, yet widely admired by his peers. A native of Connecticut, Chuck brings many special experiences to his art. He was editor of his college literary magazine, a commune-dweller, a musician. He's currently the owner of an architectural woodworking business, husband, father of four, and active in the life of his adopted community, Milford. Chuck is also a fan of Pike United Way. He came to know its work and its mission when his daughter Sara worked for the organization as an Americorps* VISTA volunteer. Each evening, when Sara discussed her day's activities at the dinner table, Chuck grew more and more impressed with the organization's commitment to Pike County. In order to help, he decided that he would donate the proceeds from all book sales to Pike United Way. As a result of many requests from readers of his work, the books are autographed. The next time you are in Milford, stop at the Mill Run Booksellers at the Upper Mill, 150 Water Street, or The Gallery at Forest Hall, 101 West Harford Street, or Seventh Street Coffee, just across the street from the Columns on Routes 209 and 6. Pick up a copy of one of Chuck O'Neil's books, read just one poem, and you'll be enthralled. You'll want to own at least one book, and chances are, you'll want to give one or more as a gift to someone you care about. The cost of each book is $7. Every cent will go to Pike United Way to help provide essential human services to needy people in Pike County. Locally, Chuck has read at the Columns Museum, at Seventh Street Coffee, and on December 2nd at 7 PM he'll be reading from his work at Silconas Poetry Center on the campus of Sussex County Community College in Newton, NJ. Thanks, Chuck O'Neil for the kind of personal commitment that makes it possible for Pike United Way to do "What Matters", "Offering Hope - Building Futures". And thanks to Mill Run Booksellers, The Gallery at Forest Hall, and Seventh Street Coffee for their willingness to forego their usual profit on these books in order to help Pike County neighbors who are in need. If you want further information about Pike United Way, call (570) 296-9980 or toll free (888) 306-6963 or visit www.unitedwaypike.org. If you want to volunteer or get information about any Pike County human service please visit www.PikePaHelp.org.

Retired? Want To Help Pike United Way? Try This. Left to Right: TerriAnne Caraluzzo, Pike United Way and Joanne Becker, retired IMB employee reviewing current Pike United Way 05-06 brochure. Joanne Becker, a retired IBM employee, is a no-nonsense take-charge kind of person, wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and charm that makes it impossible to say "no" when she sees something that she thinks needs to be done. Several years ago, Joanne walked into the Pike United Way office, introduced herself, and said, "I've just retired from IBM and moved to Pike County. IBM is a long-time supporter of United Way across the country, and I was one of the IBM coordinators for the employee payroll deduction plan. So I know a lot about the good work that United Way does. Now that I'm retired, I'd like to continue to donate through my retirement plan. I'd like to find a way for other IBM retirees, who live here to do it too, but Pike United Way is still pretty new and IBM headquarters has never heard of you. How can we make this happen?" Well, together, Joanne Becker and Pike United Way, with the help of IBM made it work, and now there are quite a few IBM retirees who contribute through a retiree payroll deduction plan. It was surprisingly easy, and we can help you to do it too. If you are a retiree who worked for a company anywhere in the U.S. (or the world) that participates in United Way employee deduction plans, including retiree plans, we at United Way of Pike County, Inc. will provide our code number and any qualifying financial information they may ask for. You will need to authorize the deduction on whatever form your company requires. That's all there is to it. Your annual contribution can be deducted monthly or quarterly over the year so that it never becomes a "budget buster". If you later decide that your life has changed or that you just can't continue, let your company know through your regular retiree contact and your planned deduction will end right away. We'll help you with that too, if you like. Says TerriAnne Caraluzzo, Pike United Way Executive Secretary, "If you'd like to arrange for a retiree deduction plan for yourself, and or others in your company, call us at 1-570-296-9980, or toll free 888-306-6963, or fax a request to 1-570-296-5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. You can also stop by our office, just as Joanne Becker did. We are at Sunshine Station, just across the street from Luhrs on Routes 209 and 6 between Milford and Matamoras. We'll be glad to see you and get started on setting up a plan for you." That's what we call, "What matters", "Offering Hope - Building Futures".

2nd ANNUAL CHEFS UNITED - A BENEFIT DINNER FOR PIKE UNITED WAY Left to Right: United Way Special Events Committee Members - Bob Kiesendahl, Ron Schmalzle and Craig Ehrhardt. Chefs from some of the finest lake region restaurants will be "uniting" to use their culinary talents to support the United Way of Pike County. Tickets are now available for Pike United Way's 2nd Annual Chefs United Benefit Dinner to be held Thursday, November 17th. The dinner will be hosted by The Waterfront at Ehrhardt's on beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack, Route 507, Tafton, PA. The evening's festivities include appetizers and cash bar from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. and dinner beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for the event are $50.00 per person. Last year's sold out event showcased 14 of the area's finest restaurants. While supporting the United Way of Pike County, participants will enjoy appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts along with musical entertainment by Ray Weeks of the Dimmick Inn. This annual benefit dinner coincides with the Pike United Way's fundraising campaign. This year's goal is $125,000 and the United Way hopes that this event will help them exceed this mark. Thanks to community minded businesses like Ehrhardt's Waterfront and Woodloch - two of the participating restaurants and the generosity of people like you, Pike United Way helps support twenty local non-profit agency programs and other community initiatives. Don't miss out on what promises to be another terrific evening of food and fun. For tickets please call the Pike United Way office at (570) 296-9980 or contact any United Way of Pike County Board Member. If you want to volunteer or get information about any Pike County human service please visit www.PikePaHelp.org. Donations to Pike United Way stay, right here, in Pike County. Offering Hope - Building Futures - The United Way!

The Kiesendahl Family Again Donates to Pike United Way Annual Campaign Matt Kiesendahl and Steve Kiesendahl, of Woodloch, Mike Peifer, Pike United Way Board President, and Bob Kiesendahl, Woodloch. As the Kiesendahl family of Woodloch, presented a check for $5,000 to Pike United Way, making a total of $36,000 over a six-year period, they reminisced about their first donation. They said, "When Pike United Way first came to see us six years ago to describe their vision of forming an organization that would raise funds to improve and expand human services in Pike County, we immediately saw the need, liked their plan, and agreed to make a leadership gift. It was the first such gift received by the fledgling United Way, and the beginning of our long term commitment to this vitally needed organization". As Mike Peifer, Board President of Pike United Way, received the check, he said, "Vision soon became reality. We grew and became publicly hailed as a significant force in improving the lives of needy people in Pike County. The Kiesendahl's continuous support has been a tremendous help in meeting our annual fund raising goals, enabling us to do, "What Matters, Offering Hope - Building Futures". Peifer went on to say, "The Pike United Way Annual Campaign goal for 2005-06 is $125,000. It will take many people, and many donations, both large and small to meet it. If you would like to join the Kiesendahl family, and the hundreds of other community partners who are part of this effort, here are several ways you can do it." You can send your check to United Way of Pike County, Box 806 Milford, PA 18337. You can also request a pledge card by calling 1-570-296-9980 or toll-free 1-888-306-6963 or by sending an email to uwpc@ptd.net. On-line donations and pledges can also be made from our website at www.unitedwaypike.org by selecting Donations (red button). Our site accepts donations via PayPal or the United Way of America's Click and Give system. Workplace campaigns are conducted for your employer's local United Way and often have payroll deductions and other donation options. If you work outside of Pike County, your donation can be designated to the United Way of Pike County by writing our code #40129 on the pledge form. This number can also be used if you are a retired employee donating through your previous participating employer. Mike Peifer ended his remarks by saying, "Remember, no matter the amount, large or small, your donation to help meet the annual campaign goal of $125,000 is needed. All of us at Pike United Way thank you."

American Red Cross Presents Certificates of Appreciation for 9-11 Memorial Blood Drive Success At the most recent meeting of the United Way of Pike County Board of Directors, the American Red Cross presented Certificates of Appreciation to the representatives of local organizations who made the 3RD Annual 9-11 Memorial Blood Drive a record setting event. Dawn Ciorciari, a Field Representative with American Red Cross Blood Services, said, "This was the most successful blood drive to date in Pike County's history, collecting one hundred and thirty useable pints of blood. The three 9/11 Memorial Blood Drives combined have collected 288 pints which has helped over 1,000 hospital patients." Ciorciari continued, "The people of Pike County should feel very proud to have been part of such an outstanding effort - helping so many people." The success of this year's drive can be attributed to the continued collaboration of local organizations and their publicity efforts: Pike United Way, Pike County Commissioners, Delaware Valley School District, Pike County Chamber of Commerce and Pike County Public Library. However, Dawn also recognized the participation and support of the Westfall McDonald's who supplied coffee and accompaniments for the blood donors, Jorgenson's Deli in Milford for assisting with the volunteers' lunch, the Day of Caring Volunteers including Delaware Valley Health Occupations Student Association members, the Delaware Valley Vo-tech Food Services students who baked twelve dozen cookies for the refreshment canteen, Price Chopper in Matamoras who supplied canteen supplies and the Milford Diner who helped advertise the event. Accepting the American Red Cross Certificates of Appreciation, at the meeting, were Blood Drive Co-Chairs Pike County Commissioners Richard Caridi and Karl A. Wagner, Michael Peifer, President United Way of Pike County and Stacey Beecher Chelak, United Way Board Member, Dr. Candis Finan, Superintendent of Delaware Valley School District, Ellen Schaffner, Assistant Director of the Pike County Library and Dave Wilson, Director of Pike County Chamber of Commerce. Ciorciari also said, "I want to thank the other co-chair of the 9-11 Memorial Blood Drive, Commissioner Harry Forbes", who was unable to attend the meeting. For information about American Red Cross Blood Services call 1-800-GIVE LIFE. For information about all Pike United Way's community initiatives call (570) 296-9980 or visit www.unitedwaypike.org. For information about any Pike human service please visit www.PikePaHelp.org. Donations to Pike United Way stay, right here, in Pike County. Offering Hope - Building Futures - The United Way! Pictured from left. Sitting: Commissioner Rich Caridi; Dawn Ciorcari, American Red Cross; Commissioner Karl Wagner; Pat Dolge, Pike United Way, Middle Row: Pike United Way: Frank Redington, Sue Robbins, Lew Gubrud, Stacey Beecher Chelak; Dr. Candis Finan, Delaware Valley School District; Ellen Schaffner, Pike County Public Library; Pike United Way: Celeste O'Neil, Alan Dolge, Michael Peifer Back Row: Pike United Way: Bob Veneziale, Ravenell Williams; Dave Wilson Pike County Chamber; Pike United Way: John Drake, Mark Kirsten and Craig Ehrhardt.

PIKE UNITED WAY AND 230 COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS DECLARE PIKE COUNTY FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF CARING A SUCCESS Day of Caring Volunteers painting at Survivors' Resources The Fifth Annual Pike County Day of Caring, held on Saturday, September 10, was another inspiring success according to Pike United Way Co-Chairs Mike Donlon and Christine Obser. Obser explained that this program links community volunteers to non-profit agencies for a single day to do projects and tasks that enable the non-profits to focus more of their efforts on their primary mission of helping others. Donlon reported that volunteers helped 20 agencies complete 23 projects. Projects included painting and repairing facilities, mulching and marking trails, helping with office work, detailing transport vans, cleaning and landscaping playgrounds and facilities, assisting Pike United Way to expand the data base for its human services website www.PikePaHelp.org, assisting at the 3rd Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, creating reading packets, compiling program folders and helping at fundraisers. Each volunteer received the traditional Day of Caring t-shirt donated by Citizens Bank. Their workday began with a delicious breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn, donated by owners Abe Wohl, Carol Hodge, Gary Hodge and Jeanine Hodge along with Pike United Way supporters Pam and Dick Lutfy. The volunteers then fanned out around Pike County to perform their tasks. About half of the volunteers were high school students from throughout Pike County. In addition, participants included senior citizens, families, solo individuals, and a team of Wal-Mart trainees. In just a single day these amazing adult and high school volunteers provided over 1,500 hours of unpaid labor, at an equivalent dollar value of over $25,000. They received heartfelt thanks from Pike United Way and the recipients of their hard work and community spirit. Donlon and Obser announced that the Sixth Annual Day of Caring would be Saturday, September 9th, 2006 as Pike United Way continues "Offering Hope, Building Futures". If you would like to volunteer now please visit www.PikePaHelp.org for a listing of volunteer opportunities or call Pike United Way at 570-296-9980 or toll free: 888-306-6963. Notice: Donors from the 9/11 Blood Drive can give blood again on Novermber 14th! Red Cross Blood Drive Schedule

WAYNE BANK CONTINUES SUPPORT OF PIKE UNITED WAY WITH $1,365 DONATION Left to right: Bill Kerstetter, VP Wayne Bank, Mike Peifer, United Way Board President Once again it is Wayne Bank's pleasure to support Pike United Way as they continue meeting the human service needs of many of our Pike neighbors" said Bill Kerstetter, Vice President of Wayne Bank, as he presented the United Way of Pike County with Wayne Bank's gift of $1365. Mike Peifer, Board President, expressed the Board's appreciation of Wayne Bank's ongoing support. "We thank Wayne Bank for their donation which helps us to fulfill our mission of local service. Donations from our local businesses like Wayne Bank have enabled us to further our commitment of service to Pike County. As we kick off our 2005-2006 campaign, we are confident that with the business community's continued support we will reach our fundraising goal of $125,000." As a former United Way Board Member, Mr. Kerstetter knows first hand the help Pike United Way's fundraising gives back to the community through their allocations to twenty local nonprofit agencies and many community initiatives including the www.PikePaHelp.org information and referral system, Annual Day of Caring and 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, Revolving Ramp Fund, Volunteer Taskforce, Pike County Emergency Reserve Fund and Pike County Family Community Expo. If you would like to contribute to the 2005-2006 Campaign, you can send your donation to United Way of Pike County, Box 806, Milford, PA 18337, or donate through our website HERE or call us at 570-296-9980 or toll-free 888-306-6963 for further information. Offering hope, building futures, the United Way!

Katrina Survivors Ask Help From People of Pike and Wayne Counties We've seen the pictures; we've heard the cries from the survivors of Katrina. Now we have the opportunity to help these fellow Americans get their lives back together. Here's how. Wayne and Pike County citizens have joined hands, under the leadership of the Prevention Initiative, Wayne Memorial Hospital, the community collaborative recognized as the Pennsylvania Department of Health State Health Improvement plan (PA DOH SHIP), to find temporary housing for victims of Hurricane Katrina here in the safe haven of the Poconos. Questionnaires are being distributed during the coming week to find people with housing to offer for this purpose. Completed forms will be forwarded to Wayne and Pike Counties Emergency Management Agencies. The county agencies will then forward the information on to PEMA and FEMA. A background check of the donor may be necessary. Pike United Way is doing its part, by distributing questionnaires to the more than 225 volunteers who will start their volunteer day of work at the Fifth Annual Day of Caring Breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn, in Milford, on Saturday September 10, 2005, at 7:45 a.m. Questionnaires will also be available between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, also on September 10 at the Delaware Valley Middle School Auditorium on Routes 206 and 6 in Matamoras. Pike Day of Caring volunteers will also be distributing questionnaires to local businesses for use by their customers, clients, suppliers, etc. The questionnaires will also be available on the website - CLICK HERE. If you would like to have the questionnaire emailed to you, or if you have questions, please call 1-570-253-8990 or 1-570-253-8422. You may email your completed form to katrinaaid@wmh.org or fax it to 1-570-253-8993. The Prevention Initiative, Wayne Memorial Hospital (PA DOH SHIP), the citizen volunteers who initiated this program, and Pike United Way appreciate your help. This is: "What Matters, Offering Hope - Building Futures". Questionnaire

MILFORD DINER HELPS GET THE WORD OUT ABOUT 9/11 MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVE Eva Cattes sets Milford Diner tables with 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive place mats. For the third year in a row, Milford Diner is helping to ensure the success of the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive by using their place mats to give information about the event. Eva Cattes, Milford Diner hostess, says everyone in her family thinks that supporting community projects is an important part of what the diner is all about. "It's about more than the food; it's about helping the community that supports our business, in every way that we can," she said. " In many ways we are a community center, and getting the word out about the 9/11 Blood Drive is a very important part of serving that function." The 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive was initiated by Pike United Way as a living tribute to those who were injured or who perished on that dreadful day. Now in its third year of operation, the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive has become an integral part of Pike County community service. If you have given blood before, and are able to do so on Saturday, September 10, please join us. If you are a first time donor, you won't be alone. There are other first time donors, including many high school students who are just 17 years old and beginning their lives of community service, plus a sprinkling of older first timers too. Come alone, or as a group. Expect to spend about an hour and half, to include registering, data processing, donating and noshing canteen refreshments provided by the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Westfall McDonald's, Price Chopper and others. There will be lots of reading material provided by the Pike County Public Library System as part of their "Read While You Bleed" program. The Delaware Valley School District provided the space for this American Red Cross Blood Drive, chaired by the Pike County Commissioners, Harry Forbes, Richard Caridi and Karl Wagner. Finally, Pike United Way will have a handsome Day of Caring tee shirt for you donated by Citizens Bank, and the American Red Cross invites you to participate in a raffle for mementos of the day including Sunoco Gas gift cards. The date is Saturday, September 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Delaware Valley Middle School gym in Matamoras on Routes 209 and 6. There will be plenty of signs to guide you, and the big American Red Cross supply truck will be clearly visible. It isn't necessary to make an appointment, but if you can call and let us know you are coming it will help us to be sure we have enough of everything, including volunteers to make your waiting time as short as possible. Call TerriAnne at Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, fax 1-570-296-5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. Thanks for joining us at the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive. We at Pike United Way say this is what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures.

NEW PIKE UNITED WAY INITIATIVE HELPS MAKES COMMUNITY SERVICES EASIER TO FIND To assist Pike residents without internet access Pike United Way has distributed the printed version of PikePaHelp.org to public schools, libraries, select county and government agencies and all county, township & borough administrative offices in the county. The Pike County I& R System Committee, a standing committee of the Pike United Way, has published a printed version of the free on-line community and human services database, www.PikePaHelp.org. The database includes government, nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations that provide essential services that are either free, subsidized or not-for-profit and also support Pike County residents. The listings include the organization contact information and description of services and/or programs. All information was entered or provided by the listed organization. The printed version was prepared as an alternate to those without access to the internet. A copy of the printed directory was provided to schools, libraries, selected county and government agencies and all county, township and borough administrative offices in the county. Other organizations and the public are welcome to download and print their own copy of the directory from the Pike United Way website - CLICK HERE. Bob Veneziale, United Way Board Member Chair of the committee offered special thanks to the following volunteers who worked extensively on this project - Helen Ford, Joseph Plutnicki, Charlene Simard, and Laurie Veneziale. Additional financial support was provided by a Monroe/Pike Block Grant and the Pike Human Services Development Fund. The committee is seeking new members and volunteers to help with this and future projects. Those interested should contact the Pike United Way by calling 570-296-9980 or toll free 1-888-306-6963 or by email to uwpc@ptd.net. Offering Hope - Building Futures - It's the United Way!

VOLUNTEER ALERT: LAST OPPORTUNITY TO SIGN-UP FOR FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF CARING Volunteers at 2004 Day of Caring Event cutting and pasting to create reading booklets for Wayne Pike Adult Literacy Program. Pike United Way is still looking for a few more volunteers to participate in the Fifth Annual Day of Caring on Saturday September 10, 2005. A free breakfast and lunch, a day spent working to help others, camaraderie, a free tee shirt that becomes a collector's item, what better way to spend a Saturday in Pike County Here's what Day of Caring is about and how you can join in. For the past five years, Pike United Way has been bringing together non-profit organizations that need help with work projects that can be done in a single day and volunteers who can do those jobs on the second Saturday in September in a community-wide program known as the Annual Day of Caring. Projects include painting, cleaning, building repairs, yard work, maintaining and marking trails, farm work and much more. This year the date is Saturday, September 10, rain or shine. Volunteers will meet at 7:45 a.m. to receive their assignments, get a free Day of Caring tee shirt donated by Citizens Bank, and enjoy a delicious free breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn on Broad Street in Milford, mingling with other volunteers. After breakfast you will go to your assigned work place and get to work. Your host agency will provide lunch. If you'd like to sign-on as a volunteer, call TerriAnne Caraluzzo at United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax to 1-570-296-5571, or send an email to uwpc@ptd.net to get the registration form. You will be doing what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures.

Pike County Commissioners Declare Saturday, September 10, Fifth Annual Day of Caring Pike County Commissioners Present Proclammation to Alan Dolge, Vice President of the Pike United Way Just over five years ago, Pike United Way proposed an annual Day of Caring on the second Saturday of each September, and organized local citizens to give a day of volunteer work to non-profit organizations. Many people thought it was a good idea. But nobody could have guessed what a genuine outpouring of community spirit would result, and how helpers and helped alike, would make Day of Caring a cherished local tradition. Today, at their regular meeting, the Pike County Commissioners issued a proclamation to the United Way of Pike County in honor of the Fifth Annual Day of Caring. Alan Dolge, United Way Board Vice President, told the commissioners that volunteers now surpass the 225 mark, and more than 20 organizations will receive help this year. He said that over the course of the past five years, Day of Caring volunteers have contributed an aggregate of more than 6,000 hours of free labor at an estimated cash value of over $55,000, just by setting aside a single day on the second Saturday in September to serve others. If you would like to be a Pike United Way Day of Caring volunteer, here is how to do it. There is no upper age limit if you are in good health, and want to help. You must be 14 years old, or older. If you are under age 18, you will need your parent's consent. Area high schools are participating. Registration forms will be available when school opens, but if you and your friends want to sign up sooner keep reading for "how to". Register by calling United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or by downloading the registration form at www.unitedwaypike.org < Day of Caring > The form will also be available at all Pike County Public Library System branches and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. If you'd like to join with friends, club members, or co-workers to make up a team, let us know. The day begins at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday September 10, rain or shine, with breakfast provided by Pam and Dick Lutfy and the owners of Tom Quick Inn. You will sign in, get your Day of Caring T-shirt courtesy of Citizens Bank, have a wonderful breakfast, meet and talk with other volunteers, then go to your place of work for the day. Your host agency will provide lunch. The workday ends around 3:00 p.m. Jobs include painting, repairs, yard work, cleaning, office duties, and much more. So, get out some work clothes and sturdy shoes. Become part of this growing Pike County tradition. At Pike United Way, we call what you are doing, "Offering Hope - Building Futures". We thank all volunteers and participating sponsors, and the Pike County Commissioners who help to make this day such a win / win for Pike County.

Anonymous Samaritan Gives Five Sunoco Gift Cards to 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive Raffle Win gas gift card at 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, Saturday, September 10th With gasoline prices at an all time high, what could be better than winning a $20 gift card that can be used at any Sunoco gas station/Extramart of the winner's choice? These are among many prizes that will be won by lucky donors in a raffle at the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive on Saturday, September 10 at the Delaware Valley Middle School on Routes 209 and 6, in Matamoras. Hours are between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. There will be plenty of signs to guide you, and the big American Red Cross supply truck will be clearly visible. It isn't necessary to make an appointment, but if you can call Pike United Way and let them know you are coming it will help them to be sure they have enough of everything, including volunteers to make your waiting time as short as possible. So, if you are seventeen years old or older and weigh at least 110 pounds, come and donate a pint of blood, participate in the raffle, enjoy the terrific free refreshments provided by the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Westfall McDonald's, Price Chopper and others. You will receive a free Pike United Way Day of Caring t-shirt donated by Citizens Bank. The Pike County Library system will supply reading material to make the waiting time seem shorter. The Delaware Valley School District provided the space for this American Red Cross Blood Drive, chaired by the Pike County Commissioners, Harry Forbes, Richard Caridi and Karl Wagner. Call TerriAnne at Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax 1-570-296-5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. Thanks for joining the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, and the Fifth Annual Day of Caring. We at Pike United Way say this is what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures.

Meet A Day of Caring Teenage Volunteer, Then Sign-up Yourself Michael Tschop sports 2005 Pike United Way Day of Caring T-Shirt while working at Hometown Pet & Supply. Several days ago, Michael Tschop, a senior at DV High School was sporting a 2002 Pike United Way Day of Caring t-shirt while working at Hometowne Pet & Supply at the Old Lumberyard in Milford. A few questions, and it was clear that the spirit of volunteerism among Pike County teenagers is very much alive and well. At the ripe old age of seventeen, Michael Tschop has been giving back to his community through Day of Caring since 2002, when he turned fourteen, the minimum age for participating. He worked at YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar in 2002, Ann Street School in 2003, and the Milford Skate Park in 2004. He is looking forward to another new assignment for 2005. Now that he has turned seventeen, the minimum age for donating blood, he will add a donation to the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive to his Day of Caring commitment. Michael is a member of the National Honor Society, active in the High School Chorus, the High School Drama Club, the Port Jervis Presby Players, and the Dingmans Ferry United Methodist Church, where he is President of the Senior High Youth Group, and active in the Vacation Bible School. He also served on the 2005 Relay for Life Committee. In addition he is working to help pay for college. When asked how he manages to fit all these activities in, Michael said that he believes that accomplishment is important, and that a large part of his belief system centers around the need to give back to the community that has already given so much to him. We've heard much the same thing from the more than 200 high school students who have volunteered for Day of Caring over the past five years. Here's how you can join Michael Tschop, and many others young, old and in between, who are volunteering a day of work to help others on this special day. Rain or shine, Day of Caring is on Saturday, September 10, beginning with a delicious free breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn. You will sign in at 7:30 a.m., get your assignment and a free t-shirt courtesy of Citizens Bank, enjoy the company of fellow volunteers, and then head out to a day of work from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at one of the many volunteer projects around Pike County. Lunch will be served at your work location. Jobs include painting, repairs, yard work, office work, etc. To sign-on as a Day of Caring volunteer, or to donate blood at the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, call TerriAnne Caraluzzo at United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax to 1-570-296-5571, or send an email to uwpc@ptd.net. Day of Caring volunteer registration forms can also be downloaded from the Pike United Way website: www.unitedwaypike.org < Day of Caring >. By offering this single day of work and service to your community, you will be doing what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures. Thank you.

Area Businesses Assist with Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive At the 2004 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, this year's Blood Drive Co-Chair, Pike County Commissioner Harry Forbes, assists McDonald's staff as they prepare coffee for the refreshment canteen. In a move guaranteed to make a lot of blood donors happy, Westfall McDonald's has just signed on for the second year in a row to provide light refreshments for the donor canteen at the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, to be held at the Delaware Valley Middle School Gym on Saturday, September 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A popular choice of last year's blood donors, McDonald's delicious coffee will once again be available at the canteen. Not to be outdone, members of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, and their families, are providing homemade cookies. All of this will be augmented by other delicious tidbits made possible by a contribution from the new Price Chopper located in Matamoras. The 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive was initiated by Pike United Way as a living tribute to those who were injured or who perished on that dreadful day. Now in its third year of operation, the 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive has become an integral part of Pike County community service. The goal this year is 125 pints of blood, up from 75 pints in 2004. If you have given blood before, and are able to do so on Saturday, September 10, please join us. If you are a first time donor, you won't be alone. There are other first time donors, including many high school students who are just 17 years old and beginning their lives of community service, plus a sprinkling of older first timers too. Come alone, or as a group. Expect to spend about an hour and half, to include registering, data processing, donating and noshing. There will be lots of reading material provided by the Pike County Public Library System as part of their "Read While You Bleed" program. Finally, Pike United Way will have a handsome Day of Caring t-shirt for you courtesy of Citizens Bank, and the American Red Cross invites you to participate in a raffle for mementos of the day provided by local merchants. The date is Saturday, September 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. inside the Delaware Valley Middle School Gym, Route 6 & 209 in Westfall. There will be plenty of signs to guide you, and the big American Red Cross supply truck will be clearly visible. It isn't necessary to make an appointment, but if you can call and let us know you are coming it will help us to be sure we have enough of everything, including volunteers to make your waiting time as short as possible. Call TerriAnne at Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax 1-570-296-=5571, or email uwpc@ptd.net. Thanks for joining us at the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive. We at Pike United Way say this is what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures.

Why Day of Caring Is Such A Big Day At Pike County Developmental Center (PCDC) Day of Caring Volunteers and PCDC clients working on a painting project at last year's Day of Caring event. Pike County Developmental Center has been getting help from the Pike United Way Day of Caring program since its inception five years ago. With the help of volunteers, working room by room, year by year, their entire facility has been painted so that it looks trim and fresh all the time. Now it's time to start again. This year, on September 10, rain or shine, the first room will be painted for the second time. And this year, the deck and back ramp at PCDC will also get a sprucing up, thanks to the help of many volunteers. PCDC is an adult day training facility for developmentally challenged adults, ages 16 and older. These PCDC clients vote on the paint color and help with the work, they know they have an important stake in helping to make their community a better place, and this is very important to them. Ask them about Day of Caring, and watch their faces light up. Rain or shine, Day of Caring is on Saturday, September 10, beginning with a delicious free breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn. You will sign in at 7:30 a.m., get your assignment and a free t-shirt courtesy of Citizens Bank, enjoy the company of fellow volunteers, including some PCDC clients, then head out to a full day of work at one of the many volunteer projects around Pike County. Lunch will be served at your work location. If you'd like to sign-on as a volunteer, call TerriAnne Caraluzzo at United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or fax to 1-570-296-5571, or send an email to uwpc@ptd.net. to get the registration form. Jobs include painting, repairs, yard work, office work, etc. By offering this single day of work to your community, you will be doing what matters: Offering Hope - Building Futures. We can still accommodate a few more projects. So, if you are a local non-profit organization and need help with a project such as painting, repairs, yard work, office work, etc, that can be completed in a single day, get in touch with Pike United Way by phone, fax or email, as listed above. We'll send someone over to look at the project and arrange for your participation in our Day of Caring on September 10.

How To Make A Life Saving Gift Without Spending A Cent Get ready for the Third Annual September 11 First time blood donor making life saving gift at last year's 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive. Memorial Blood Drive on Saturday September 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Delaware Valley High School on Routes 209-6 in Matamoras. Begun as a tribute and memorial to those who perished on 9/11, the Pike County September 11 Memorial Blood Drive has quickly become the single most successful blood drive in the history of Pike County. At Pike United Way we think this is because so many people have come to see that the simple act of giving blood makes a difference. They believe that helping others in this way is a wonderful memorial to those who lives were lost on that terrible day. Begun as a United Way of Pike County initiative, as part of its Day of Caring Program, this effort was quickly partnered by the Delaware Valley School District, The Pike County Chamber of Commerce, and the Pike County Public Library System. In 2005, it is chaired by the Commissioners of Pike County, Harry Forbes, Rich Caridi, and Carl Wagner, Jr. When you come to donate blood on Saturday September 10, you will see this partnership in action. The Delaware Valley School District has donated space for the blood drive. Many high school students are among the volunteers, and first time blood donors. The Pike County Chamber of Commerce has solicited refreshments from its member businesses, and the Pike County Public Library System has provided reading materials for your use during the processing period of about an hour and a half, in a program amusingly named "Read While You Bleed. All donors will receive a 2005 Day of Caring t-shirt. Here is how to participate. Anyone 17 years of age or older, weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good health can donate. There is no upper age limit. Although advance registration is not required it would be greatly appreciated. Knowing how many people to expect will enable us to prepare so that the waiting time is held to a minimum. And of course, it will also help us to be certain that enough volunteers, refreshments and t-shirts are on hand. Simply call Pike United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963. If you would like further information regarding the Fifth Annual Day of Caring please feel free to call Pike United Way, email us at uwpc@ptd.net or visit our website www.unitedwaypike.org. At Pike United Way, we call what you are doing, "Offering Hope - Building Futures". We thank you and our participating partners and sponsors, and everyone in the community who is helping to make the Fifth Annual Day of Caring and its Third Annual September 11 Memorial Blood Drive a community success.

Free T-shirts For Volunteers On Day Of Caring, Thanks To Citizens Bank Left to Right: Mike Donlon; Pike United Way Day of Caring Co-chair, James O'Brien; Citizens Bank, Christine Obser; Pike United Way Day of Caring Co-chair, Donna Satzger, Citizens Bank Milford Branch Manager and Shaun Flanagan, Citizens Bank proudly display volunteer Day of Caring t-shirts donated by Citizens Bank. The 225+ Pike United Way Day of Caring volunteers are a proud bunch, and for good reason. For the fifth consecutive year, on the second Saturday in September, they will deliver more than 1,350 hours of free community service to the people of Pike County. The cash value of their totally unpaid volunteer efforts will be more than $13,500. Look for this army of volunteers on Saturday September 10. You will see them at many locations around the county, painting, planting, repairing, helping non-profit human services organizations improve their facilities and services in many ways. You will also see them as they volunteer at the Third Annual September 11 Memorial Blood Drive. You will know them by their handsome Pike United Way Day of Caring t-shirts that were donated by Citizens Bank. Donna Satzger, Manager for Citizens Bank Milford Branch, said, "We are proud to once again partner with the Pike United Way Day of Caring Program by providing t-shirts for the entire corps of volunteers. We expect that Citizens Bank employees will be among them, and I urge participation by as many other volunteers as possible. It makes a huge difference in the lives of so many people in our local area." If you'd like to be part of Day of Caring, here's how. To participate, you must be 14 years old, or older. If you are under age 18, you will need your parent's consent. Area high schools are participating. Registration forms will be available when school opens, but if you and your friends want to sign up sooner keep reading for "how to". There is no upper age limit if you are in good health, and want to help. Anyone, young or old, can register by calling United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or by downloading the registration form at www.unitedwaypike.org. The form will also be available at all Pike County Public Library System branches and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. If you'd like to join with friends, club members, or co-workers to make up a team, let us know. The day begins at 7:45 a.m. with a free breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn. You will sign in, get your assignment and your t-shirt, have breakfast and join about 225 others to fan out around the county, to work and to make a difference in our area by a single day of caring. So, get out some work clothes and sturdy shoes, and join your friends for Day of Caring on Saturday September 10, rain or shine. We thank Citizens Bank for the terrific t-shirts, and we thank you for your volunteer help. At Pike United Way, we call what you are doing, "Offering Hope - Building Futures". Thanks again.

Be A Day of Caring Volunteer on September 10 and Enjoy Free Breakfast At Tom Quick Inn 2004 Day of Caring Volunteers arriving for breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn On Saturday, September 10, for the fifth consecutive year, the Tom Quick Inn will provide an absolutely scrumptious breakfast, free of charge, to all volunteers at the Pike United Way Fifth Annual Day of Caring, in a tradition begun by Pam and Dick Lutfy when they owned this historic establishment. When Pam and Dick sold the Tom Quick Inn to Abe and Carol Wohl and their partners Gary and Jeanine Hodge two years ago, there was a brief tussle about who would get to continue the Day of Caring tradition. In a win/win for everyone, they agreed that they would all be joint sponsors. Just one more example of how community spirit remains alive in Pike County. Here are important details about Day of Caring and how you can be part of it. Each year, on the second Saturday in September, rain or shine, the Day of Caring Program matches non-profit organizations that have need of volunteer workers, with volunteers who are willing to give a day of their time to help. Jobs run the gamut from painting to yard work, from light carpentry to building stone walls, from washing windows to detailing vehicles, from light office duties to helping repair facilities for the disabled, and much more. Day of Caring starts at 7:45 a.m. with breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn at 411 Broad Street, Milford. You will sign-in, receive a free Day of Caring tee shirt and your assignment, enjoy breakfast with about 225 other volunteers, and then be on your way to a day of community service. Lunch will be provided on the job. When the workday concludes at around 3:00 p.m. you'll take home a memory to treasure. Although some volunteers will be joining us for the first time, a growing number of people are returning each year to participate. Breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn is a great way for the "oldies" and "newies" to swap experiences and to get to know each other before heading off to their day of community work. To participate, you must be 14 years old, or older. If you are under age 18, you will need your parent's consent. Area high schools are participating. Registration forms will be available when school opens, but if you and your friends want to sign up sooner keep reading for "how to". There is no upper age limit if you are in good health, and want to help. Anyone, young or old, can register by calling United Way toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or by downloading the registration form at www.unitedwaypike.org. The form will also be available at every all Pike County Public Library System branches and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. If you'd like to join with friends, club members, or co-workers to make up a team, let us know. So, get out some work clothes and sturdy shoes, and join your friends and neighbors at breakfast at the Tom Quick Inn, and for Day of Caring on Saturday September 10, rain or shine. At Pike United Way, we call what you are doing, "Offering Hope - Building Futures". We thank you, the owners of Tom Quick Inn, and all of our other participating sponsors.

Pike County Commissioners Will Chair 2005 September 11 Memorial Blood Drive Left to Right: Mike Donlon, Pike United Way Day of Caring Co-chair; Richard Caridi, Pike County Commissioner & Blood Drive Co-Chair; Christine Obser, Pike United Way Day of Caring Co-chair; Barbara J. Buchanan, Pike County Public Library Board President; Ed Nikles, Sr., Pike County Chamber of Commerce Executive Board President; Dawn Ciociari, American Red Cross Blood Services Field Representative; Mark Kirsten, Delaware Valley School District High School Assistant Principal; Harry Forbes, Pike County Commissioner & Blood Drive Co-Chair and Mike Peifer, Pike United Way Board President Did you know that Pike County Commissioners Harry Forbes, Richard Caridi, and Karl Wagner have been volunteering at the September 11 Memorial Blood Drive since its inception three years ago? They do this to live their belief in the spirit of volunteerism and the need to put it into practice in their own lives. In other words, they "walk the talk". Now, the commissioners have expanded their commitment to include chairing the event, which is led by the United Way of Pike County, with its partners The American Red Cross, The Pike County Chamber of Commerce, The Pike County Public Library System, The Delaware Valley School District, and local businesses and volunteers. All of these partners urge you to join in honoring the memory of the fallen of September 11, by making a blood donation on Saturday, September 10, 2005 at the Delaware Valley Middle School Gym on Route 209 and 6, in Matamoras, between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The entrance to the school will be clearly marked for your convenience. Last year this event was overwhelmingly successful. We expected about 70 donors, and actually processed more than 100. So, this year we have enlisted many more volunteers and professionals, readied more refreshments, more reading material, and more than enough United Way Day of Caring tee-shirts for every donor and volunteer, all to help make your visit of about an hour and a half more comfortable and enjoyable. We welcome groups, such as clubs, businesses, churches, or others. If your group would like to do this, just let us know by one of the ways listed below. For more information, or to volunteer at the September 11 Memorial Blood Drive, please call TerriAnne Caraluzzo at the United Way office at 570-296-9980, or toll-free at 888-306-6963. You can send a fax to 570-296-5571, or send email to uwpc@ptd.net.

THE DIME BANK INCREASES ITS SUPPORT TO UNITED WAY OF PIKE COUNTY Left to Right: Simone Palmer, The Dime Bank Business Development Officer, Mike Peifer, United Way of Pike County Board President, Nellie Stevens, The Dime Bank Dingmans Ferry Branch Manager and Frank Redington, The Dime Bank Vice President of Commercial Lending On August 2, 2005, The Dime Bank presented a check for $1,500 to United Way of Pike County Board President, Mike Peifer, as a demonstration of the bank's commitment to supporting human services in Pike County, and helping the United Way in its mission of "Offering Hope - Building Futures". As he presented the $1,500 check, Frank Redington, The Dime Bank's Vice President of Commercial Lending said, "We have just recently opened a new full service branch on Route 739 in Dingmans Ferry, and as we expand our commercial presence, we want to match it with good neighbor policies. Last year at this time, we presented a check to the United Way of Pike County for $1,000. We raised it to $1,500 this year to signal our strong commitment to supporting human services in Pike County. We see the need and we want to help meet it." Nellie Stevens, The Dime Bank Dingmans Ferry Branch Manager, and Simone Palmer, Business Development Officer, were both present and said that they too were proud to help support community services by channeling funds to the United Way of Pike County. As he accepted the check for $1,500, Mike Peifer made it clear that the support of The Dime Bank is vital to the success of United Way as it brings new initiatives and funding to human services for the people of Pike County. He said, "Their good neighbor policy should be an inspiration to others". More information about services provided by the United Way of Pike County can be found on its website at www.unitedwaypike.org, United Way of Pike County also sponsors www.pikepahelp.org, the website that provides a comprehensive listing of virtually all human services agencies that provide help in our area, along with links to details for all of them that have websites of their own. Visit here to make a donation to the United Way of Pike County. Thank you for helping us in our pledge of "Offering Hope - Building Futures".

Pike United Way Welcomes New Board Members Stacey Beecher Chelak is a new board member of the Pike United Way and also a partner in the law firm of Beecher & Chelak in Milford.   Lew Gubrud is a new board member of the Pike United Way.   Mark Kirsten is a new board member of the Pike United Way and also the Assistant Principal at Delaware Valley High School.   Celeste O'Neil from The Biondo Group is a new board member of the Pike United Way. At its' meeting on June 23rd Pike United Way welcomed its' newest board members, Stacey Beecher Chelak, Lew Gubrud, Mark Kirsten and Celeste O'Neil. In his welcoming remarks, Board President, Mike Peifer said, "we make a concerted effort to be certain that our board as a whole reflects the broad diversity of Pike County, and a rich cross-section of talented people who are committed to public service. These new board members are very much in that tradition." Stacey Beecher Chelak has been a resident of Pike County for 41 years. She and her husband, Greg Chelak, are partners in the law firm of Beecher & Chelak in Milford. As a lifetime resident of Pike County, Stacey has seen dramatic growth in the County's population which naturally has created an increased demand for human services. By serving as a Board member of the United Way of Pike County, Beecher Chelak feels she will be given an opportunity to directly engage in the development of and funding of critical human service needs for the community in which she grew up. "I think it is a universal concept that government can't and won't provide full funding for our human service agencies. Therefore, volunteers within our community serve a vital role in keeping our human services in perpetual motion. Each and every volunteer becomes an integral spoke in the wheel of voluntarism, and it is that very wheel that enables our community to provide human services." stated Beecher Chelak. In addition to her position on the United Way Board, she also serves as a Director on the Pike County Chamber of Commerce Board and participates in fundraising committees for the Pike County Public Library. Retired since July 2003, Lew Gubrud moved into Hemlock Farms in July 2004. Gubrud has lived in North Dakota, Oregon, Kentucky, Rhode Island, New Jersey and now Pennsylvania, and has been a volunteer with several non-profit organizations but most recently, served as CFO for two New Jersey YMCA's, both of whom are deeply committed to serving the community, and both YMCA's are United Way agencies. Gubrud has extensive experience in financial management, human resources, information systems and strategic/tactical planning. Gubrud graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in Philosophy. Gubrud's interest in serving Pike County United Way is a result of many years of experience working with United Way agencies to confirm funding has the intended result. "I feel it is a privilege to give back to the community by way of United Way." remarked Gubrud. Assistant Principal at Delaware Valley High School, Mark Kirsten and his wife Kimberly are lifelong Pike County residents. He is the father of three, daughters Kelly 10, Abigail 8 months and son Tyler 5. Kirsten is currently working on his dissertation for his doctoral degree from East Stroudsburg University. He has taught at Wallenpaupack School District and been an administrator at Pocono Mountain School District, Stanhope School District and presently at Delaware Valley School District. Kirsten has given back greatly to local youth in his involvement with youth sports. He has coached baseball, softball and basketball teams on the local youth level along with coaching varsity baseball at Wallenpaupack High School. Kirsten joined United Way to try to reach out and help our community in any way possible. Said Kirsten "I have worked with the United Way in the past through the school and saw them as a giving organization with great goals toward helping the community." A resident of Milford since 1983, Celeste O'Neil joined The Biondo Group in 2004. She began her professional career in 1983 with Schirm Rehabilitation and Education Companies. In 1994 she joined Vassar Brothers Medical Center/Health Quest Systems in Poughkeepsie, NY, providing consulting services to small business groups. O'Neil holds a bachelor's degree in Business and Economics from Empire State College, State University of NY. At the Biondo Group, she manages daily office operations, human resources, communications, and finances. She serves on the campaign committee for the United Way of Pike County. O'Neil lives in Milford with her husband, Chuck. The couple has four young adult children: Ben, Chuck, Beth and Sarah. O'Neil is an avid hiker and enjoys theater and independent films. The inspiration to volunteer with the United Way came primarily from her daughter, Sarah. "Sarah served for a year as an Americorps VISTA volunteer with Pike United Way from fall of 2001 to 2002." stated O'Neil. "Through her, I learned so much about the need in the community, the incredible work that the agencies provide and the importance of the unified administrative effort, United Way, that takes care of funding these diverse agencies." For information about all Pike United Way's good works in our community go to www.unitedwaypike.org or call them at 570-296-9980 or toll free at 888-306-6963. For information about all Pike County Human Services, or to volunteer, go to www.PikePaHelp.org. Remember, donations to Pike United Way stay right here in Pike County. Offering Hope, Building Futures - The United Way!

UNITED WAY FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF CARING SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 1OTH Volunteers in Action Completing 2004 Fourth Annual Day of Caring Projects Give a day of work, give a day of caring: the Fifth Annual Day of Caring sponsored by United Way of Pike County is scheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2005 along with the Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive. Co-Chairs Mike Donlon and Christine Obser reported that last year over 225 volunteers, age 14 or older provided a single day of service to 18 local organizations receiving much-needed services. The value of volunteer labor was more than $20,000 in one day. Local high school students were very active participants. Some volunteers were so impressed by the work of the organizations they helped, that they went back to help again over the course of this past year. Day of Caring volunteers were listed in the Pike County Volunteer Corps 2005 Honor Roll. Some of the projects completed last year included painting facilities, organizing clothes for the needy, detailing transport vehicles, refreshing camp facilities, office filing and clerical work updating Pike County human resources website, creating picture files to assist learning English as a second language, repairing children's playgrounds and cataloging & organizing equipment and supplies. Last year's Second Annual 9-11 Memorial Blood Drive was an overwhelming success. Attended by over 100 people, a record number of 100 usable pints of blood were collected. Pike United Way will partner with the American Red Cross, Delaware Valley School District, Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Commissioners and Pike County Public Library to sponsor this valuable service. The Day of Caring begins at 7:45 AM with breakfast hosted by and held at the Tom Quick Inn. Every volunteer will receive a t-shirt and a letter of thanks from United Way. You, along with other volunteers, will work to complete service projects for Pike County non-profit agencies from 9:00AM to 3:00PM. Lunch will be provided at the site. There will be media coverage at most sites. Volunteering to give a day of work, give a day of caring is easy. To participate this year please contact the United Way Office by calling 296-9980 or toll free 1-888-306-6963, faxing 570-296-5571, emailing uwpc@ptd.net or visiting their website: www.unitedwaypike.org. Download Volunteer Application PLEASE JOIN US IN OFFERING HOPE, BUILDING FUTURES - THE UNITED WAY!

Calling All Local Non- Profit Agencies - Don't Be Left Out - Register Now To Receive Volunteer Assistance During Pike United Way's Fifth Annual Day of Caring Volunteers hard at work during 2004 Fourth Annual Day of Caring Does your local non-profit 501(c)(3) agency need assistance with projects you do not have the people power to complete? Let United Way of Pike County provide you with the volunteers you need to complete a one day project as part of their Fifth Annual Day of Caring to be held on Saturday, September 10th, 2005. Last year over 225 volunteers, age 14 or older assisted 18 agencies in completing 19 projects in one single day. Some volunteers were so impressed by the work of the organizations they helped, that they went back to help again and again over the course of this past year. Projects that were completed last year included painting and repairing facilities, mulching and marking trails, office filing and clerical work, organizing computer files, outside clean up and maintenance, detailing agency vehicles and stocking & organizing food pantry storage areas. Pike United Way welcomes variety in agency project requests. Day of Caring volunteers possess a wide range of skills just waiting to be put into action. The workday begins at 7:45AM with breakfast hosted by the Tom Quick Inn then a team of volunteers will work to complete the projects at your site from 9:00AM to 3:00PM. Each volunteer receives a Day of Caring t-shirt and a thank you letter from United Way. Participating agencies provide project materials and lunch for their volunteers. If you would like your non-profit organization to participate and receive the benefit of this generous outpouring of volunteer help please request an Agency Volunteer Opportunity Form from the United Way by calling (570) 296-9980 or toll free 1-888-306-6963, emailing uwpc@ptd.net or visiting www.unitedwaypike.org. Registration deadline is August 19th. OFFERING HOPE, BUILDING FUTURES - THE UNITED WAY!

Make Money and a Difference in Your Community The Pike United Way is seeking job applicants to fill three paid full-time positions through the AmeriCorps*VISTA program. Applicants need some education or a few years of work experience and skills. AmeriCorps is a nationally recognized organization committed to serving communities all across America and they are often referred to as "the domestic Peace Corps." They have partnered with the Pike United Way to serve the citizens of Pike County. VISTA members will assist the Pike United Way with their community and human services projects including the Information and Referral System (www.PikePaHelp.org), Volunteer Corps, Day of Caring and Pike County Family Community Expo. The AmeriCorps opportunities pay about $800 a month, provide for limited health benefits and offer either an educational grant or a cash payment at the end of the one-year service term. You may also qualify for postponement of student loan repayment during your service. The education award can be used to pay education costs at qualified institutions of higher education or training, or to repay qualified student loans. The award is about $4,700 and can be used up to seven years after the term of service has ended. You also have the option of taking a cash payment of $1200 instead of the education award. AmeriCorps applicants must be at least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien of the U.S. Applicants can visit the AmeriCorps website (www.americorps.org) for more information or call the Pike United Way at 570-296-9980 or 1-888-306-6963. Offering Hope - Building Futures - It's the United Way!

PIKE UNITED WAY FOUNDING CHARTER BOARD MEMBERS HONORED UPON THEIR BOARD RETIREMENT Left to right: Board President Mike Peifer, Retiring Board Members: Barbara J. Buchanan, Christine Obser, Lee Oakes and Jack Dennis, Board Vice President Alan Dolge. In September 1998, a steering committee of Pike residents began the groundwork to form a United Way as an impetus for improved delivery of Human Services in Pike County. Their dedication has made today's Pike United Way a flourishing organization actively "offering hope - building futures" here in our county. At the June 23rd Pike United Way board meeting, Board President, Mike Peifer presented founding board members Jack Dennis, Lee Oakes and Christine Obser with plaques of appreciation as their tenure on the Board comes to a close. Alan Dolge, who was also a founding member, is staying on for a period of time to help with the transition. Peifer said, "We are grateful for their extraordinary contributions towards the founding and development of the United Way of Pike County. Their devotion, diligence and guidance have enriched the lives of many in our Pike county community." Dolge, Dennis, Oakes and Obser have actively helped United Way grow and bloom in its six years of incorporation. The organization began its allocation funding for 2000-01 by awarding $32,000 to fourteen agencies and United Way initiatives and in this current allocation period has awarded $85,000 to twenty local agencies. In addition the United Way funds seven initiatives which include Day of Caring, 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, Pike County's first comprehensive Information and Referral System; www.PikePaHelp.org, Pike County Volunteer Taskforce, Pike County Emergency Reserve Fund, Pike County Community Ramp Fund and Pike County Family Community Expo along with collaborative special programs with local corporations and organizations. Founding President, Lee Oakes, praised the new United Way Board members as dedicated professionals who would bring a wealth of experience and good hearts to the job of preparing for the future. Co-founders, Dolge, Dennis and Obser agreed with this assessment. Barbara J. Buchanan, who was a charter board member and first Campaign Chair also retired and was honored for her contributions. Their spirit of community dedication will always be present at the United Way of Pike County. If you would like to get involved in United Way community initiatives or would like more information regarding Pike United Way please log on to their website www.unitedwaypike.org or call toll-free 1-888-306-6963.

Pike United Way Helps American Red Cross To Pay For Local Flood Relief Left to right: Pike United Way Board President, Mike Peifer, Wayne Pike Chapter of the American Red Cross, Executive Director, Marita Wenner, and American Red Cross, Chapter Chairman, John Spall Why are Pike United Way Board President, Mike Peifer, Wayne Pike Chapter of the American Red Cross, Executive Director, Marita Wenner, and American Red Cross, Chapter Chairman, John Spall, smiling, while holding a check for $5,000? Here's the story. We all remember the recent flood disaster here in Pike County. We all remember how the Wayne Pike Chapter of the American Red Cross came to the rescue, providing shelter, food, clean-up kits, and much more, as direct assistance to the people of Pike County. But when the emergency was over, when people were back safely in their homes, when lives returned to normal, there were costs still to be reckoned. It was time for Pike United Way to come to the rescue. The Pike County Emergency Reserve Fund is an initiative of Pike United Way created to help in large-scale local emergency disasters such as this one. It was first used to reimburse a local non-profit organization when it housed rescue workers in the aftermath of the 9/11 disaster. So, after the costs of the flood disaster relief operation were tallied, and Marita Wenner asked Pike United Way for a gift of $5,000 from this very special fund to help defray those costs, the funds were available and the requested gift was forthcoming. This is just another example of how Pike United Way initiatives are helping provide essential community services in times of need. It's all made possible by the generosity of the people of Pike County who support Pike United Way with their money, their time and their hearts. Whether your gift is large or small, we thank you, one and all. Gifts to the United Way of Pike County are always needed and welcome. Please don't wait for a special fund raising campaign. You can mail your check now to United Way of Pike County, Box 806 Milford PA 18337, or call us toll-free at 1-888-306-6963, or email us uwpc@ptd.net for a pledge card. If it's easier, you can download a pledge card from our website www.unitedwaypike.org. Thanks for helping Pike United Way to come to the rescue in this and in so many other ways.

PIKE UNITED WAY ANNOUNCES AWARDS TO AID TWENTY LOCAL NONPROFIT HUMAN SERVICE PROGRAMS The Pike United Way Board of Directors is pleased to announce that it has awarded $85,000 in allocations to help fund twenty local human services organizations offering programs in Pike County. A committee of community volunteers spent six weeks reviewing applications for funding in a review process that included proof of non-profit status (501c3), analysis of need, organization operations and financial stability, and dedication to serving all citizens on a non-discriminatory basis. If the program was funded in the past, proof of performance was included as a condition for continued funding. The twenty agencies awarded allocations are American Red Cross - Pike County, Catholic Social Services, Center for Developmental Disabilities of Pike County (CDD), Compassionate Friends - Delaware Valley Chapter, Country Ark Farm, Devereux Pocono Center, Genuine Alternatives in Therapy (GAIT), Good News Good Cheer Food Pantry, Habitat for Humanity of Pike County, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Food Pantry, Pegasus Child Advocacy Center, Pike County Alliance for Prevention Programs, Pike County Developmental Center (PCDC), Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Sarah Wells Girl Scout Council, Survivors' Resources, The Salvation Army, Voluntary Action Center of NEPA - Big Brothers Big Sisters Pike Extension, Wayne-Pike Adult Literacy and YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar. A list of the twenty organizations and summaries of their programs in Pike County is available on the United Way website www.unitedwaypike.org. These most recent allocations along with the following initiatives: Day of Caring, 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive, Pike County's Information and Referral System - www.PikePaHelp.org, Pike County Volunteer Corps, Handicapped Ramp Revolving Fund, Pike County Emergency Reserve Fund, Pike County Family Community Expo and Initiatives and Special Programs Shared with Various Corporations are made possible as a direct result of the outpouring of gifts from Pike County citizens and friends during the sixth annual fund raising campaign. For information about Pike County United Way call 570-296-9980 or 1-888-306-6963. Further information about any of the agencies providing services in Pike County can be found at www.PikePaHelp.org. Your generous donations to Pike United Way funds local human services right here in Pike County. Offering Hope - Building Futures - It's the United Way! See the Allocations Page

The United Way of Pike County Is Seeking Community Projects for their Fifth Annual Day of Caring Volunteers painting at Ann Street School during 2004 Fourth Annual Day of Caring The United Way of Pike County once again invites local non-profit 501(c)(3) agencies to participate in their Fifth Annual Day of Caring to be held on Saturday, September 10th, 2005. Last year over 200 volunteers, age 14 or older assisted 18 agencies in completing 19 projects in one single day. Some volunteers were so impressed by the work of the organizations they helped, that they went back to help again and again over the course of this past year. Projects that were completed last year included painting and repairing facilities, mulching and marking trails, office filing and clerical work, organizing computer files, outside clean up and maintenance, detailing agency vehicles and stocking & organizing food pantry storage areas. Day of Caring volunteers possess a wide range of skills and Pike United Way welcomes variety in agency project requests. The workday begins at 7:45AM with breakfast then a team of volunteers will work to complete the projects at your site from 9:00AM to 3:00PM. Each volunteer receives a Day of Caring t-shirt and a thank you letter from United Way. If you would like your non-profit organization to participate and receive the benefit of this generous outpouring of volunteer help please request an Agency Volunteer Opportunity Form from the United Way by calling (570) 296-9980 or 1-888-306-6963, emailing uwpc@ptd.net or visiting www.unitedwaypike.org. OFFERING HOPE, BUILDING FUTURES - THE UNITED WAY! More Information

Pike County Family Community Expo - A Wonderful Day for All!   Fun was the name of the game at Pike County Family Community Expo! Fun activities, entertainment, demonstrations and plenty of informational giveaways were enjoyed by over 750 participants at the Pike County Family Community Expo, an initiative of United Way of Pike County. The expo was once again hosted by YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar. The weather was perfect and the participants were able to leisurely walk about the many information booths while enjoying the beautiful and tranquil setting of Camp Speers. The event's success was possible because of the generous donation of services from Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Smith Party Tents & Family Events and M&S Sanitary Sewage Disposal. The Pike County Family Community Expo Committee is grateful for their support along with the support of the dedicated volunteers who gave of their time to assist at the expo. Forty exhibitors provided free activities at their information booths including games of chance, bouncing pit, face painting, craft activities, educational games & displays, exercise & balance skills, raffle prizes and a bike safety rodeo course. Participating exhibitors included Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bon Secours Health Partners, Center for Developmental Disabilities, Child Care Information Services of Pike County, Communities That Care After School Program "The Explorers", Community Learning Resource Center, Country Ark Farm, Creative Memories-Maureen Finnigan, Cub Scouts Pack 5, Discover the Rainbow Mountain View School for Early Care and Education, Early Care & Education Coalition of Pike County, Grey Towers National Historic Site - US Forest Service, Hospice Saint John & Hospice Saint John Palliative Care, Kids Directory, Little Acorns Day Care, Matamoras Home Depot, Milford Wal-Mart, Mountain Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness Center, Newton Memorial Hospital, Northampton Community College, Penn State Cooperative Extension - Pike County 4H, Pike County Area Agency on Aging, Pike County Medical Center, Pike County Public Library, Pike Physical Therapy & Fitness Center, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), SAFE Kids Coalition of Pike County, Sarah Wells Girl Scout Council, Shawnee Place Play & Water Park, Survivor's Resources, The Dingmans Bridge, T.O.P. S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Non-Profit, Tri-State Dog Obedience Club, Tri State Unity Coalition, Twin Cedars Assisted Living Center, United Way of Pike County, Wayne-Pike Child Evangelism Fellowship, YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar Summer Camps, Day Camps, Karate & Community Programs, and Before & After School Childcare. Entertainment scheduled throughout the day featured Dingman-Delaware Children's Choir concert, Florabelle the Clown fun, folk singing with Larry Martone, Mountain Dojo Karate demonstration and YMCA Karate exhibition. If your group would like to participate next May please contact the United Way of Pike County to be placed on our expo contact list. Call 570-296-9980 or toll free at 888-306-6963 or email uwpc@ptd.net. For further information regarding services in Pike County please visit www.PikePaHelp.org.

UNITED WAY INITIATIVE - REVOLVING RAMP FUND - PROVIDES FOR SECOND RAMP COMPLETION BY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Left to right: Jim Lariviere, Tom McGing, Phil Conway, Rody Clayton and Mike Donlon of the Habitat construction committee along with ramp recipients Sally and Robert Knight. On Monday, May 16th, five members of the Pike County Habitat for Humanity crew constructed a new ramp for the Knight family. Sally and Robert Knight applied for a ramp through the revolving ramp fund which was initiated by a partnership between Pike United Way, Habitat for Humanity, the Lords Valley Rotary Club and a local anonymous donor as a way to get ramps to people who need them in Pike County. This is the second ramp that Habitat has built in Pike County. Mrs. Knight provided the Habitat work team with refreshments. For more information about Pike United Way's Ramp Fund or any of their community initiatives call (888) 306-6963 or visit www.unitedwaypike.org. To volunteer or find information about any Pike County human service, please visit www.PikePaHelp.org. Donations to Pike United Way stay, right here, in Pike County. Offering Hope - Building Futures - The United Way!

Pike County Family Community Expo Sunday, May 15th - 1 to 4:30 PM - Rain or Shine YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar, Off Route 739 in Dingmans Ferry, PA PLEASE MAIL OR FAX REGISTRATION FORMS BY APRIL 25TH, 2005 The United Way of Pike County is proud to announce that they will be sponsoring the Pike County Family Community Expo as part of a multi-organization effort to promote our Pike County Community and the services available to Pike County residents of all ages. Your organization is invited to participate in this year's interactive Expo as an exhibitor and educator. The Expo will be held on Sunday, May 15, 2005, from 1 PM to 4:30 PM, rain or shine. Our hosts again for the 3rd Annual Pike County Family Community Expo will be YMCA Camp Speers-Eljabar. The event will be held outdoors at the meadow area with indoor facilities being available in case of inclement weather. Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA is located on Nichecronk Road off Route 739 in Dingmans Ferry, PA. This free event will feature educational and promotional exhibits from non-profit organizations, county agencies, health care providers, child care providers, family friendly businesses along with local entertainment by school choirs, local dance groups, karate clubs, area musicians and more. Information Letter to Organizations Pike County Family Community Expo Committee: United Way of Pike County, Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA, Child Care Information Services of Pike County, Early Care & Education Coalition of Pike County, PA Department of Health, PA Department of Public Welfare, Penn State Cooperation Extension, Pike County Area Agency on Aging, Pike County Tobacco Free Coalition.

UNITED WAY OF PIKE COUNTY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDING DEADLINE - MARCH 31, 2005 Thanks to the generosity of Pike County citizens, the United Way of Pike County is having another very successful year. The 2004-2005 Campaign continues to soar towards its goal of $115,000.00. Twenty local human services programs were supported during the past year. See here for a complete list. All Human Service Organizations are encouraged to apply for this funding from the Pike United Way. Organizations that apply must be 501C(3) nonprofits that provide human services in Pike County, PA on a non-discriminatory basis. Applicants that have 501C(3) applications pending with the IRS may apply for Year I United Way funding, with proof of the 501C (3) with their application and acceptance by IRS before allocation of funds. The application and all pertinent information is posted here or call the United Way Office at 570-296-9980. The deadline for application is March 31, 2005. Completed applications may be emailed to uwpc@ptd.net, faxed to 570-296-5571, delivered or mailed to United Way of Pike County, Inc., P.O. Box 860, Milford, PA 18337. Application 2005-06 (MS Word Format)

Wal-Mart Employees Payroll Plan and Corporate Match add $4,720 to Pike United Way 2004-2005 Fundraising Campaign Left to Right: Linda Southard, Wal-Mart Dept. Manager, Christine Obser, United Way Board Secretary, Dee Williams, Wal-Mart Asst. Store Manager, Chris Slocum, Wal-Mart Store Manager, Jennifer Varley, Wal-Mart Dept. Manager and Gerry Hansen, United Way Vice President and Campaign Chair. You've probably seen the TV commercials in which Wal-Mart talks about helping the communities in which it does business. Maybe you've even wondered what Wal-Mart does to help Pike County Here is one example. Wal-Mart fully matches every dollar that an employee contributes to United Way through the Wal-Mart payroll deduction plan. This year, 52 local employees who signed up for this plan, pledged $2,360 over a year (an average of $45 per year per employee) and directed these funds to Pike United Way. Wal-Mart made a corporate match of $2,36