UNITED WAY

With support from PPL Foundation, the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley has established the Fund for Racial Justice and Equity to rapidly direct financial support to anti-racism initiatives in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties.

“The Fund for Racial Justice and Equity proposes to invest in community-led solutions that generate reconciliation, cultural competence, humility and courageous conversations,” Marci Lesko, executive vice president, UWGLV said. “At United Way, we cannot serve our communities without directly confronting racial injustice within them.”

“We are proud to stand with United Way to support efforts aimed at confronting discrimination, advancing social justice and building a more equitable future,” Vince Sorgi, president and CEO of PPL Corporation said.” Through this fund, United Way will expand on its many years of diversity, equity and inclusion work with additional financial support to increase investments in community-led racial justice work at the grassroots level; rapidly direct funds to organizations and individuals who are actively working toward social justice; provide anti-racism training and funding for organizations to develop and embody just values, policies and practices; support educational initiatives that promote the correct history and stories of people of color; advocate for concrete policy and systems changes that promote equity and justice and facilitate critical community conversations and forums.

A coalition of black, indigenous and people of color will lead decision-making over the allocation of funds and priorities for the work ahead. This effort will align with and build upon existing collaborations with multiple community partners including the LVCF. To take action, donate or learn more, visit www.unitedwayglv.org.