Business Magazine July 2023

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CAPTIVE AUDIENCE: Business and community leaders — and their guests — will enjoy this special issue at the MBA’s premier networking event, the 118th Annual Event, on October 11, 2023 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie!

YEAR-ROUND VISIBILITY: Displayed at the Association’s Conference Center in Erie and Pittsburgh office in Cranberry Township. Visited by more than 25,000 people annually!

30, 2023

Deadline: AUGUST 4, 2023

BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT Q&A: HOW HIRING VETERANS CAN HELP CLOSE SKILLS GAP

PLUS:

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR COMPANY’S COMMUNITY OUTREACH EFFORTS

PRESENTED BY: ALONG WITH OUR PARTNERS:

DEPARTMENTS EVENTS

NETWORKING AND MORE

See the latest happenings at the MBA and with members in the region!

FEATURES

WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY

3

POWER IN PURPOSE

The vital role of employers in our communities.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

4

SERVICE MATTERS

Area employers Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency, Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM, Wabtec, Mercy Center for Women, Crime Victim Center of Erie County and Community Health Net share what service means to them and their mission.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | IMPACT

9

Brigadier General Maureen Weigl, deputy adjutant general for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, shares why employers and HR managers should attend the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 19.

EDITORIAL

LEGAL BRIEF | GIVING BACK

Executive Editor

Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Contributing Writers

Whitney DeStephano

Jezree Friend

Janine McClintic

Tammy Lamary-Toman

Feature Photography Crime Victim Center of Erie County Community Health Net

Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency

Mercy Center for Women Wabtec

Additional Photography iStockPhoto.com

Karen Torres

For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com

Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. info@printingconceptsonline.com

Advertising Sales Frank Mehler 814/833-3200 fmehler@mbausa.org

Amy Breitfelder 814/833-3200 abreitfelder@mbausa.org

On the Cover: Area employers, including Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency, Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM, Wabtec, Mercy Center for Women, Crime Victim Center of Erie County and Community Health Net, share the importance of service to country and community. For full story, see page 4.

Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business Association is dedicated to creating and delivering services and expertise that help businesses solve problems and succeed. – Board of Governors

Manufacturer & Business Association

Headquarters: 2171 West 38th Street Erie, PA. 16508

Pittsburgh: 850 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 2224 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 814/833-3200 |800/815-2660 | mbausa.org

11 Nonprofits and charitable giving: How to make the most out of your company’s community involvement and outreach efforts.

Janine McClintic

ON THE HILL | CONSIDER THIS

15 New EPA proposal threatens jobs and billions in economic activity.

Jezree Friend

COMPANY PROFILES | NONPROFITS

7 The 85-year legacy of the Sight Center of NW PA.

19 Inclusion and team building with the Special Olympics Pennsylvania - Northwest Region.

21 Students succeed and families thrive with the United Way of Erie County.

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POWER OF PURPOSE THE VITAL ROLE OF EMPLOYERS IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Now, more than ever, companies are taking a more active role contributing to the vitality of the communities in which they operate. Being active in community outreach can not only be beneficial to their causes, but it can also benefit their business.

Volunteering, for example, can give team members the chance to develop new skills, such as communication, leadership, teamwork and problem-solving, which are valuable in any business today. It can also broaden the talent pipeline for recruitment and retention efforts at a time when the skills gap is widening.

Employers also may want to consider those who have served our country when looking for ways to address the talent and skills shortage. Military personnel are often cross-trained in multiple skills and have experience in varied tasks and responsibilities, which are critical to the

modern business world.

In this issue of the MBA Business Magazine, we’ll discuss employers’ views of service to community and country, what it means and why it matters. We’ll also discuss some of the ways that employers can make the most of their community involvement and outreach efforts, as well as how to further assist veterans who are members of your teams.

Be sure to join us for the MBA’s second annual IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 19 at the MBA Conference Center in Erie, when we’ll showcase the volunteer opportunities and services available at our area nonprofits. We’ll also hear from guest speaker Brigadier General Maureen Weigl of the PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs on the advantages

of hiring veterans to address the growing skills shortage and the programs and resources that are available to employers today.

The MBA is proud of the sacrifice and service of our own professional staff members and their families, and salutes all our member companies and their team members for their service and contributions to our community and country.

To learn more about the IMPACT Luncheon or to register, visit mbausa.org!

The MBA would like to recognize our staff members who have served or have children serving in the military, including Patty Welther (whose daughter is in the Air Force), Marine veteran Frank Mehler, Tracy Daggett (whose son and daughter are in the Navy and Air Force, respectively) and Army veteran Jezree Friend.

Employers play a significant role in our lives — and, in many cases, the communities in which we live.

When businesses are doing well and creating jobs, this has a positive effect on the economy and community — making it a more attractive place to live and work, leading to even more economic growth.

Saluting The Organizations That Serve Our Community, Country SERVICE MATTERS

Whether it’s for country or community, there is no greater calling than to serve. America would not be the same without our military and first responders, nor the good works of area nonprofits and their legions of volunteers. Today, for many employers, the importance of service has become an integral part of their business model, helping to attract top talent (veterans included), foster customer relationships and boost community pride.

“ ‘Being of Service’ is what drives our employees and our organization,” explains Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency Vice President T.J. Richter, CIC. “We strive to make a difference in people’s lives –our employees and our clients. We deliver on our promises and stand behind our word.”

At Loesel-Schaaf, headquartered in Erie, helping others understand their policies, coverage, benefits, gaps, etc., is a rewarding part of the agency’s work. “One of our goals is to help not only our nonprofit sector by finding savings in their insurance products, but we support our community by supporting the nonprofit sector’s needs. We participate on various Boards of Directors, hold food drives, clothing drives, Christmas gift sponsorships and various other donations throughout the year,” explains Richter. “Helping people when they have a need and being able to take that burden off their shoulders, combined with the caring and empathy of our staff has helped to drive our agency’s success for nearly 100 years.”

Giving Back

At Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM of Waterford, the family owned dealership and its employees have been actively involved in the community since its founding in 1946. Humes has financially supported area nonprofits, donating more than $20,000 to volunteer fire departments over the past year, $5,000 to local food pantries as well as supporting area Little League teams, school sports and extracurricular programs. The dealership has even been honored as a Pennsylvania’s TIME Magazine Dealer of the Year for community support and engagement, a multiple Erie’s Choice Award Winner, and a Commitment to Erie Award winner.

General Manager Matt Clark and his wife Karen have personally chaired fundraising events and campaigns for the Crime Victim Center of Erie County Moonlight on the Bay and Roarr Against Crime events raising almost $200,000. The couple also chaired the Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network capital campaign and Guess That Tune Gala, the Neighborhood Art House annual fundraising campaign, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Race for Cure, American Heart Association Heart Ball, as well as contributing to Erie Homes for Children and Adults, the Flagship Niagara League, and Hagen History Center, among others.

“We owe much of our success to our local community and feel an obligation to help the area community,” says Clark. Larger employers share these sentiments as well. At Wabtec, community engagement is an essential responsibility for the Pittsburgh-based

company, a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added service.

“At our Erie facility, our mission is to connect Wabtec and our employees to the community to create a positive impact, focusing on children, health, relief and sustainability,” explains Business Operations Specialist Christine Breski. “In addition, we work to leverage our available resources to create change and help our hometown flourish.”

Wabtec also recognizes that its employees feel more fulfilled and recharged after taking the time to support others.

“From sharing their love of STEM with a group of students, cleaning up trash along Presque Isle,

Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency’s team has been active in the community. Shown here are Doug Loesel (trustee of the Erie Cemetery Association and Erie Yacht Club); Kathy Aranyos (board member of the National Conservation Program); Frank Riley (board member of the Erie Lions Club, coach for Millcreek Youth Athletic Association, Erie Youth Soccer Association and Erie Steelheads); T.J. Richter (board member of Cathedral Preparatory School/Mother Teresa Academy and committee chair for the Young Erie Philanthropists and community chair for University of Dayton Alumni Association); Patrick Wachter (board member of Harborcreek Youth Services and the Nonprofit Partnership); Eric Consiglio (board member of the Sisters of St. Joseph); Darleen Hill (board member of Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary and Adoption Center); Genene Mattern (social media coordinator for the Erie Regional Library Foundation); Tracy Stanley (board member of the Erie Contemporary Ballet Theatre) and Aubra Thomas (Naval Academy graduate and veteran of the U.S. Navy).

Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM General Manager Matt Clark (at right) is shown with a donation to Warriors to Washington, one of the many charitable organizations that the dealership supports in the community.

serving turkey dinner to the Erie City Mission, collecting items for a toy drive, or building wheelchairs for local veterans, our employees are motivated, compassionate, and selfless when it comes to creating change,” Breski says. “We hope that each time we engage with a local nonprofit, we can establish a lasting and positive impact on our community and workforce so both continue to thrive.”

Greater Impact

America’s 1.3 million nonprofits play a significant role in service to communities across the country, especially those close to home. For example, the Mercy Center for Women (MCW), which was founded by the Sisters of Mercy, has been serving the Erie community since 1994. The Mercy Center’s mission is to help the most vulnerable members in our community — those experiencing homelessness — by providing a safe path toward a permanent home.

“Whether responding to a crisis call from a woman escaping abuse or a request from another agency to serve a Thanksgiving meal, our passion is to serve others in our community experiencing the most dire situation anyone could face: homelessness,” says MCW Executive Director Jennie Hagerty. “Thanks to support from individuals and other organizations who believe in our work, the new Mercy Anchor Community Center expands our impact by doubling the number of people we’re able to serve including men.”

The Crime Victim Center of Erie County, headquartered in Erie, has been having a profound impact on the community for the past 50 years. In 2022 alone, the Center provided services to almost 1,000 victims and significant others of sexual assault, and over 2,700 victims, witnesses and significant others of other crimes in Erie County.

“Our counseling, prevention education, court advocacy, restitution and victims’ compensation services are the reasons why we are able to continue meeting our mission of ‘reducing crime and the impact of crime, including sexual violence, through counseling, prevention education, and advocacy,’ ” states CVC Executive Director Paul Lukach, MSW, LSW. CVC’s Prevention Education team are the

Edison Elementary’s Explorers Club, including students and their families, visited the Wabtec facility in Erie in October 2022. Wabtec supports Edison as a partner of United Way’s community school initiative.

individuals responsible for informing children and adults in the community about age-appropriate topics that prevent perpetration and victimization. In 2022, Prevention Education delivered more than 450 presentations to more than 9,000 participants and provided educational resources at almost 100 community events.

“We take pride in being the only comprehensive victim service center in the area, having the ability to work with victims of all crimes through their trauma processes,” Lukach adds.

Community Health Net (CHN) is another nonprofit resource helping to make a difference through service, starting out as a small medical and dental clinic in Erie in 1985. Today, as the Lake Erie region’s largest Federally Qualified Health Center, Community Health Net provides high-quality medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, behavioral health, and other health-related services, to the community, regardless of a person’s ability to pay.

“At Community Health Net, our culture and mission are deeply rooted in community service. We understand that a thriving community relies on quality and consistent health-care services,” says CHN Chief Executive Officer Craig Ulmer. “Our commitment to service is driven by the belief that quality health-care should be accessible to all people and empowers individuals, fosters economic growth, and nurtures the overall well-being of our community.”

Community Health Net prioritizes addressing the health-care needs of all community members, particularly those who are underserved. By focusing on community service, the organization strives to bridge health disparities and promote equity.

“Our dedication extends beyond our facilities as we actively collaborate with organizations and participate in local initiatives,” says Ulmer. “Through these partnerships, we maximize our impact and create a stronger, healthier and more vibrant Lake Erie region, the place we call home.”

To learn more about ways to get involved, join us for the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 19. Visit mbausa.org to register.

Mercy Center for Women teamed up with the Erie City Mission to serve Thanksgiving meals to those in the community in 2022.

The Crime Victim Center has been providing service and support to those victims and significant others involved in sexual assault in Erie County for the past 50 years. Below, Crime Victom Center Executive Director Paul Lukach holds the Center’s milestone anniversary plaque with staff members in Erie.

Community Health Net provides a wide range of health-care services regardless of ability to pay. Shown here are (from left) are: CEO Craig Ulmer, CHN Case Manager Marcia Grace, Acting Secretary of the PA Department of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh, Pennie® External Affairs Director Chachi Angelo, and CHN Board Chairperson Thierno Barry.

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Happy Birthday to the Sight Center of NW PA: An 85-Year Legacy of Love and Leadership

2023

Since opening its doors in 1938, The Sight Center of Northwest PA has undergone numerous shifts and changes, including name changes — from Erie Center for the Blind and Visually Handicapped to today’s Sight Center of Northwest Pennsylvania. One thing, however, has remained the same since the earliest days: the agency’s mission. Despite some minor wordsmithing, the mission of the Sight Center is and always has been to prevent blindness and promote independence for those with vision loss and those who are blind.

A PROUD HISTORY

The Center’s initial organizational meeting was held at the Erie Club on June 23, 1938. Mr. H. L. R. Emmett, manager of the General Electric Co., was elected first president of the charter group. The first employee, Mary Limberg, was hired on July 1 to direct the first program — prevention of blindness screenings. On September 26, the little association became a fully operating nonprofit corporation with the adoption of by-laws and the election of Mrs. Harry Schaal as the first president of the first board of directors!

The Center’s first office was in the “Community Chest” Building, now United Way, until it moved to the Baldwin Building for a few years, and to its own location at 230 East 21st Street in 1955.

During the 1950s, sheltered workshops were a way to provide jobs and income to people who were blind. Center employees earned wages doing piece work for manufacturers such as Inland Container, Erie Brewing Company, and Surrey Bicycle. Additionally, the popular “talking radio” was instituted. Volunteers read news and human-interest pieces over the airwaves, providing engagement, education, and entertainment for blind and sighted listeners alike. This decade also brought cooking classes, chair caning, Friday night dances, and the Golden Age Social Club.

In 1961, a capital campaign funded the building that became affectionately known as “that place on Cherry Street.” When gifts came in over the stated need of $100,000, they were given BACK to donors as the board felt they didn’t want to take more than was needed!

In 1963, young Tyco Swick was hired as executive director. Under his 46 years of leadership, community collaborations were formed and programs for the blind evolved with new trends and technologies. Transportation and vision rehabilitation services took center stage in the effort to keep every client independent and productive. Strong mission bonds were created with the Lions Clubs that continue today.

In 2009, the Board approved Swick’s retirement and appointed Linda (Hackshaw) Moore, then director of Development, as executive director of the agency you now know as the Sight Center. Swick’s affectionate story of Moore’s hiring in 1999 includes the fact that she notified

him — with some shock — at her interview, that he had worked at the Center since the month she was BORN (and he hired her anyway). Moore’s affectionate story of her promotion includes that she hired Swick back early in her tenure as executive director to be the Lions Clubs liaison and eye care coordinator. This year marks Moore’s 24th year at the Center, her 60th birthday, and Swick’s 60th year of service to the Center.

To lend perspective to this part of the agency’s story, it is important to understand that the annual turnover rate for executive directors of nonprofit agencies in America is 20 percent. Together, Moore and Swick have provided 60 years of unbroken service to blind and visually impaired residents of NW PA.

IMPACT

Today, the Sight Center provides services in seven PA counties with a staff of 17 and a fleet of seven vehicles, screens the vision of several thousand of our youngest residents, is the region’s primary provider of services, including technology, to those with low vision as well as blindness, and is one of the nation’s leading presenters of the National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP); diabetes is the leading cause of working-age blindness in the United States.

Happy 85th anniversary to the Sight Center of NW PA, happy 60th to leaders Swick and Moore, and happy 60th anniversary to Swick and his wife Sharon too. May the legacy of love and leadership continue on!

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marks the 60th year of service for retired Sight Center Executive Director Tyco Swick and 24th year for current Executive Director Linda (Hackshaw) Moore. Moore is also celebrating her 60th birthday this year, as the Center marks 85 years in northwestern Pennsylvania.

Join us for our 2nd annual IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair as we not only showcase our area nonprofits but also the contributions of our servicemen and women, with a special presentation on the advantages of hiring veterans to address the growing skills gap.

Guest speaker Brigadier General Maureen Weigl of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs will present on PA Vet Connect and the importance of nonprofits as well as the Department of Defense SkillBridge program, which is an opportunity for service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships or internships during the last 180 days of service. SkillBridge connects service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences.

Brig. Gen. Weigl was appointed deputy adjutant general for Veterans Affairs on April 12, 2021. In this position, she supervises the administration of state veterans’ programs, reintegration and outreach, and veteran initiatives for more than 700,000 veterans and their dependents. She also oversees the operation of the Commonwealth’s six veterans’ homes. She retired from the Army in May 2016 after serving for 25 years. Since her retirement, Brig. Gen. Weigl has become a small business owner and entrepreneur. She also has served with numerous organizations as a military and veterans’ adviser.

Brig. Gen. Weigl holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s in business ethics from Duquesne University, and a master’s in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. She also holds a post graduate certificate in Human Resources from the Pennsylvania State University and completed both the U.S. Northern Command Joint Domestic Operations Course and the Harvard Kennedy School Senior Executive Seminar in national and international security. She is a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, project manager, executive leadership coach, and a member of the American Legion, VFW, and Catholic War Veterans. She has served veterans since retirement and has been partnering with clothing manufacturers to make adjustable clothing for veterans and others with prosthetic limbs.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, JULY 19 • 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

LOCATION: MBA Conference Center, 2171 West 38th Street at Pittsburgh Avenue, Erie

COST: $35 Members, $55 Nonmembers (lunch is included)

PRESENTED BY:

PROGRAM:

• Registration begins at 11:15 a.m.

• Nonprofit Fair starts at 11:30 a.m.

• Lunch and keynote address at Noon

• Fair resumes at 12:40 p.m.

REGISTRATION: Call Melissa at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or visit mbausa.org!

Brigadier General Shares How Hiring Veterans Can Help Close Skills Gap

The Manufacturer & Business Association, in conjunction with the MBA Business Magazine, will host its annual IMPACT Luncheon and Nonprofit Fair on July 19. This year, the event will showcase our area nonprofits but also recognize the many contributions of our region’s servicemen and women. Here, keynote speaker Brigadier General Maureen Weigl, deputy adjutant general for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, shares why employers and HR managers should attend this special presentation.

Brigadier General Weigl, you continue to serve your country after 25 years of military service. Tell us about your decision to serve.

I absolutely loved serving in the military for 25 years. In retirement, I knew I wanted to help veterans, so I began working on adjustable clothing options for service members who lost limbs. Around that same time, I also co-founded the nonprofit Vets2Set where we helped connect veterans to the production industry all over the United States. I learned a great deal about veterans particularly related to the gaps in care that existed, as well as the job skills that are needed for a successful transition to civilian life.

When I was offered this job at the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, I jumped at it, knowing this would be an incredible opportunity to serve Pennsylvania’s veterans. My team is making a difference in the lives of so many veterans.

What are some of the highlights of your military career?

In 1994, I deployed to Haiti with the 10th Mountain Division Infantry for the peacekeeping mission Operation Uphold Democracy. In 2008, I deployed to Kuwait and Iraq where I conducted research and built a database to document traumatic brain injuries. I also earned my airborne wings, completed two master’s degrees, and attended the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, National and International Security, where I met so many wonderful allies from around the world.

You have served as deputy adjutant general for Veterans Affairs since April 2021. Tell us what this role entails. I oversee six long-term care veterans homes, as well as the management of programs, reintegration, and outreach for more than 700,000 veterans and their dependents in Pennsylvania — the fourth largest veteran population in the nation. My job is to ensure veterans receive the benefits they have earned in service to our nation.

As a guest speaker at the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon and Nonprofit Fair on July 19, you will be discussing the advantages of hiring veterans to address the growing skills gap. Tell us more.

We are so fortunate to have more than 700,000 veterans living and working here in Pennsylvania. Military service is valuable experience and instills a variety of attributes such as: discipline, the military values of Honor, Courage and Commitment, punctuality, world experiences, adaptability, education, leadership, dedication and most importantly pride in themselves, their country, and the organization they’ll serve.

Veterans and their families also have opportunities to continue with professional certification programs at no cost such as: Project Management Professional, Society for Human Resource Management, Lean Six Sigma, Commercial & Industrial Security Corporation/ Organization courses, etc. Programs like these are a value-add for companies looking to hire quality candidates.

DMVA is committed to sharing notices from employers who are interested in hiring veterans as well as sharing information about veteran or military-oriented events being held in Pennsylvania. Learn how to submit a job, or apply to a job opening, at dmva.pa.gov/ veterans.

You also plan to discuss the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program. Please explain.

The SkillBridge program is an opportunity for service members to work at a civilian employer during their last six months of service while still receiving their salary and benefits from the Department of Defense. It’s a wonderful program that helps service members make a smooth transition out of the military and into civilian careers. This program is also a win for employers who have the opportunity to hire our hard-working service members.

What are some other topics that you’ll address during your presentation?

I will highlight our award-winning program PA VETConnect, the expansion of the PACT Act, employment and education programs, benefits, Veterans’ Trust Fund grants and how we are focused on building community partnerships that benefit Pennsylvania’s veterans.

For more information, visit DMVA.pa.gov.

To register for the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 19 in Erie, visit mbausa.org

2014 Roar on the Shore Non-profit Beneficiary

Nonprofits and Charitable Giving

How to Make the Most of Your Company’s Community Involvement and Outreach Efforts

Another way to ensure that your corporate giving has a direct and positive effect in the community is to allow employees to direct donations. Employee-directed giving allows employees to support those charities that they are passionate about. It is advisable that the employer establish the parameters. For example, the directed donation must go to a registered 501(c)3 that it provides services directly to the local community.

Giving back to the community in which your business is located not only makes for good corporate citizenship but can be fulfilling on a personal level both for you as a business owner and for your employees. Donating time or money helps engage your workforce and creates building blocks for a positive corporate culture.

There are many charitable options available for a business to choose from. That can make it difficult for a small to midsize business to easily pick from among the worthy choices. Unlike large companies that give a consequential gift to a number of charities, small to mid-sized businesses may choose only one or two organizations to focus their donations each year. Therefore, choosing where to donate time and money can be a critical decision for a company and its employees.

Why Donate?

Philanthropy increases your company’s community visibility and provides a platform to share company values and culture with the community and prospective employees. Additionally, your employees can connect and engage in team building while serving their community.

A successful charitable giving campaign is one that has the support of a majority of your company’s employees. A charity that aligns with your company’s stated mission and goals or one that has deeply rooted connections to the community is likely to be well received by your employees. Local charities may already be known to you and your employees. The effects of the work, time or money donated to local charities may be immediate. Donating locally also provides a level of assurance that gifts are being used as intended.

Identifying what is needed locally is usually not a complicated process, in fact, it is not uncommon for a local media company to advertise what is needed in the community. However, if you are unable to identify a local charity that aligns closely with your company’s mission and goals, websites such as GuideStar, and the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance provide information about nonprofits.

Although there is no set amount of money a small business is required to give back to its community, a general guideline is about 6 percent of profits, according to the article “Small Business Guide to Charitable Giving and Tax Deductions” by BusinessNewsDaily.com

However, smaller companies may make a greater impact by giving time rather than money, such as volunteering for a local sports team or at a local food bank. A small business should consult with their tax advisor before initiating a companysponsored charitable giving event.

Lastly, the cold hard truth is that scammers abound and small businesses are common targets. Be vigilant and vet all prospective recipients. Red flags include unsolicited requests for donations from an unknown charity, high-pressure or urgent requests, unsolicited emails, requests for cash, gift cards, Venmo transfers and the like. Scammers may use well-designed websites and deceptive names. It is advisable to confirm any request with a phone call, but do not use any contact information or links contained in the unsolicited email and instead call your local chapter directly.

For further information on the subject, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission has a webpage dedicated to scams and a specific tab for charity-related scams at https://consumer.ftc.gov/all-scams/ charity-scams

For more information, contact Janine McClintic at MacDonald Illig Attorneys at jmcclintic@mijb.com or 814/870-7715

Janine McClintic is an associate at MacDonald Illig Attorneys. She concentrates her practice in the areas of real estate, banking, copyright and trademark, and business transactions.

ERIE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION EARNS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATION

The U.S. Treasury Department’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund recently certified Erie Federal Credit Union (Erie FCU) as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This designation is available only to organizations that have proven they provide financial services and products in communities that historically have lacked access to traditional banking services. CDFI Certification is granted with the purpose of generating economic growth and opportunity in some of our nation’s most distressed communities.

“Erie FCU is proud and excited to have completed this process as the entire team worked very hard to achieve this certification over the past year”, Erie FCU CEO Brian Waugaman said. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to expand our outreach with CDFI resources and will continue to provide needed new programs, educational opportunities, and affordable lending in our communities.”

The CDFI Fund was established in 1994 to boost lending and community development through certified CDFI lenders, allowing them to expand their reach into in economically distressed areas and underserved communities. CDFI Certification opens opportunities for institutions to access CDFI Fund grants, which must be used to support financially vulnerable residents and communities.

Erie FCU received assistance in their CDFI application from CU Strategic Planning, the largest credit union consultancy focused on CDFI certification and grant fund applications, as well as strategic planning, financial empowerment and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives. “Most credit unions are already doing the work of CDFIs, and we encourage more credit unions to explore certification to expand their influence and serve even more people who are relying on high-priced, often unscrupulous lenders that hold them back from financial stability,” CU Strategic Planning CEO/Co-Owner Stacy Augustine said. “Through CDFI certification, credit unions like Erie Federal Credit Union gain access to resources they can leverage many times over.”

Erie FCU will begin the execution of its CDFI plan in the coming months.

Since its inception in 1936, Erie Federal Credit Union, has grown its membership to over 73,000 with assets of more than $800 million. As a fullservice, federally insured credit union, anyone that lives, works, worships, or attends school in Erie or Crawford County is eligible to join. For more information, visit eriefcu.org

2023 ERIE GIVES SET FOR AUGUST 8

A project of The Erie Community Foundation and community partners, Erie Gives will be held from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. August 8.

Erie Gives is an inspiring day of giving when thousands of donors from across the country — and globe — give to hundreds of local nonprofits on one monumental day. The Foundation introduced the giving day in 2011 to support the nonprofit sector through both donations and the chance to build relationships with donors. In 2022, over 467 nonprofits received a record-breaking $8.1 million. In 2021, just over $7 million was raised. To participate, nonprofits must be a 501(c)(3), serve Erie County, and either be a member of The Nonprofit Partnership or have an Agency Endowment with The Erie Community Foundation to participate in Erie Gives.

Anyone may donate. Donations through the Erie Gives online portal to charitable nonprofit organizations are tax-deductible.

For more information, visit eriegives.org.

ERIE INSURANCE GRANTS $824K TO 22 EDUCATION NONPROFITS

Erie Insurance (ERIE) awarded 22 education nonprofits more than $824,000 in funding for 2023 to help extend educational programs to prekindergarten through 12th grade students as part of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program.

Erie Insurance has donated more than $10 million through the program since it began in 2001 and has invested in education in the City of Erie and throughout Northwest Pennsylvania for decades.

“We continue to support and recognize the many nonprofits that help expand access to education for all while creating a more inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community for this and future generations,” said Brian Wilking, senior community outreach specialist. “Erie Insurance takes our responsibility to give where we live to heart, and we are pleased to leverage Pennsylvania’s EITC program to contribute in this way.”

The EITC program is a business tax credit program

run by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development that encourages Pennsylvania businesses to support eligible nonprofit organizations.

This year, ERIE’s EITC recipients will provide school readiness and after-school programs, enhance literacy and introduce youth to STEM, finance, business, government, environment and the arts.

Early Connections is one of the local nonprofits receiving funds from ERIE in 2023. The grant will support Erie’s Future Fund scholarships, which allow underserved children from low-income families access to a high-quality early childhood education or preschool program for up to two years.

“Since 2012, Erie Insurance has helped serve over 1,600 Erie’s Future Fund Scholars attend high-quality preschools throughout Erie County, including many YMCA locations, The Learning Ladder and Erie First, to name a few. Scholar data is gathered to track performance and ensure consistent attendance,” said Michelle Harkins, Early Connections executive director. “We are very thankful for Erie Insurance’s dedication to our community’s children and future workforce.”

Another recipient, Penn State Behrend’s LEADS (Learn, Explore, Advance, Discover, Succeed) program, will use its grant to help reduce barriers for high school students attending a collegecredit course at Penn State Behrend this summer. The funding will be used for books and supplies, transportation and meals for LEADS students. Student development and STEM career exploration are also part of the experience.

Other organizations receiving EITC grants from ERIE in 2023 include: Americans for the Competitive Enterprise System (ACES), Asbury Woods, Boys & Girls Club, City Mission, Community Country Day School, Erie Art Museum, Erie Philharmonic, Erie Playhouse, Erie Zoo, expERIEnce Children’s Museum, Foundation For Free Enterprise Education, Gannon University, Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania, Greater Erie Community Action Committee, Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania, National Liberty Museum, Neighborhood Art House, Sarah A. Reed Children’s Center, Young Artist Debut Orchestra and WQLN.

Erie Federal Credit Union recently completed the process to earn certification as a Community Development Financial Institution.

14 KNOX LAW ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR 2023 PA SUPER LAWYERS, RISING STARS LISTS

Bryan Baumann, Mark Claypool, Neal Devlin, Guy Fustine and Tom Tupitza, shareholders at Knox Law in Erie, have all been selected for inclusion on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list for 2023.

Additionally, nine attorneys have been selected for inclusion on the 2023 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list: Alex Cox, Aurora Hardin, Bill Helbling, Julia Herzing, Matt Lasher, Ashley Mulryan, Mike Musone, Philip Seaver-Hall and Bob Zaruta.

According to their website, Super Lawyers® “recognizes the top attorneys nationwide, across a variety of practice areas and firm sizes, using a patented process of independent research and peer input.”

“Rising Stars” candidates must be 40 years old or younger, or have practiced law for 10 years or less. No more than 2.5 percent of lawyers in the state are named to this list.

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. is a full-service law firm that has provided practical solutions to businesses, families, public entities, and nonprofit organizations for 65 years.

BERNATOWICZ JOINS GENERATIONAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT

John Bongiovanni, CFP®, Adam Jack, ChFC®, Lucas Slezak, CFP®, and Generational Wealth Management, affiliated with one of the nation’s leading financial services companies — Northwestern Mutual, recently welcomed John (Jay) Bernatowicz to their team as director of Financial Planning.

Bernatowicz holds the Certified Financial Planner™ and CDFA® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) designations, along with his FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses. He is a lifelong resident of Erie and a graduate of Mercyhurst University.

The Generational Wealth Management team of nine with offices in Erie and Bradford, PA, provides clients with financial planning and investment advisory services.

Bongiovanni, Jack and Slezak use Generational Wealth Management as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Generational Wealth Management is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) and its subsidiaries.

Bongiovanni, Jack, Bernatowicz and Slezak provide investment advisory services as Advisors of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company ® (NMWMC), Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank, and investment brokerage services as Registered Representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA (finra.org) and SIPC (sipc.org).Bongiovanni, Jack, Bernatowicz, and Slezak are Insurance Agents of NM

WALKER FILTRATION NAMES SPAEDER GROUP MARKETING MANAGER

Walker Filtration Inc. recently appointed Molly Spaeder as Group Marketing manager. This position will lead the Global Marketing team with locations in Newcastle, England and Erie, Pennsylvania.

Spaeder has worked at Walker Filtration’s North American headquarters in Erie for over 10 years. She previously led the business development and marketing efforts for North America, Mexico, Central and South America and played a key role in developing the brand and supporting business growth. In her new global role, she will continue to build the global brand and develop market focused strategies to support business goals in both the Erie and Newcastle locations.

An Erie native, Spaeder attended John Carroll University in Cleveland for her undergraduate studies in marketing before returning to Erie to earn her MBA at Gannon University.

Walker Filtration Inc. has been located in Erie for over 20 years and is an industry leader in compressed air and gas products and technology in the United States, Mexico, Central and South America.

New EPA Proposal Threatens Jobs, Billions in Economic Activity

Jezree Friend is the assistant vice president of External Relations for the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact him at 814/8333200, 800/815-2660 or jfriend@mbausa.org.

On January 6, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a new rule for air quality standards, which seek to curb fine particles or soot. The air quality rules, however, would largely impact industrial and manufacturing activity, potentially forcing companies to offshore operations and import more products.

The regulations would lower the annual PM2.5 standard from a level of 12 micrograms per cubic meter to a level between 9 and 10 micrograms per cubic meter. The agency said it would also take feedback on a reduction to 8 micrograms per cubic meter.

However, a new report, conducted by Oxford Economics and commissioned by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), warns that the EPA’s proposed air quality regulations for particulate matter are projected to threaten $162.4 billion to $197.4 billion of economic activity and put 852,100 to 973,900 current jobs at risk, both directly from manufacturing and indirectly from supply chain spending. In addition, growth in restricted areas may be constrained, limiting investment and expansion over the coming years. Due to these limited opportunities for expansion or investment, these areas in nonattainment could lose out on an additional $138.4 billion in output and 501,000 jobs through 2027.

Overall, the regulations could make it extraordinarily difficult to create new manufacturing jobs and protect existing manufacturing jobs in areas out of attainment. The regulations could also prevent much needed infrastructure improvements in these areas. This is because compliance with the regulations could require restricting manufacturing operations, resulting in fewer jobs, less investment and higher costs for consumers and families.

Regarding this proposal, NAM President and CEO Jay Timons said, “Improving air quality in the U.S. is a top priority for manufacturers, and we’ve worked for years to make progress in delivering some of the cleanest manufacturing processes in the world. This analysis makes clear these new regulations will weaken our ability to invest in the technology and processes that would continue to reduce emissions — while jeopardizing high-paying manufacturing jobs. We need to let manufacturers do what they do best: innovate and deploy modern technologies to protect the environment, while creating jobs and strengthening the economy.”

“Manufacturing is the engine that drives our economy here in Pennsylvania and across the United States,” added Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association Executive Director Carl A. Marrara. “This analysis shows that additional unrealistic regulations will inhibit our sector from fully bouncing back, leading to more of our jobs and manufacturing operations being moved overseas. This unnecessary offshoring would be detrimental not only to our economy but to our environment, and we strongly urge the EPA to change course on this misguided proposal.”

KEY STUDY FINDINGS:

• The proposed regulations are projected to threaten $162.4 billion to $197.4 billion of economic activity and put 852,100 to 973,900 current jobs at risk , both directly from manufacturing and indirectly from supply chain spending.

• The regulations create a total economic exposure of $87.4 billion for manufacturing economic activity, equal to 2.4 percent of the U.S. manufacturing sector’s gross value added.

• The number of manufacturing jobs associated with this exposed activity is 311,600, or 1.9 percent of all U.S. manufacturing employment Manufacturing in the United States exposed to the proposed standard supports between $75 billion and $110 billion in GDP and between 540,500 and 662,300 jobs in the U.S. through supply chain spending.

Due to limits on expansion and investment, the proposed rule would put at risk approximately $138.4 billion of gross value added (in 2021 prices) and 501,000 jobs in 2027 in areas of nonattainment.

• Under the proposed rule, 200 counties could be placed out of attainment.

• In Pennsylvania, the regulations create a total economic exposure of $4.5 billion for manufacturing economic activity and threaten 23,400 jobs.

• Manufacturing operations in the United States are environmentally cleaner than the global average.

Employees Benefit from Integrating FMLA, Employee Assistance Programs

A study by the Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI) reported the prevalence of depression among workers is close to 30 percent, and 70 percent of these depressed employees goes untreated. Furthermore, 97 percent of employees who file a leave claim for depression also report other co-morbid conditions. This is amplified when they are on leave caring for family members. At a minimum there are emotional, financial and lifestyle implications for these employees.

For employers, the IBI study estimated the yearly cost in lost work time and medical treatments is $62,000 per 100 employees. Workpartners’ LifeSolutions Employee Assistance Program (EAP) implemented a program to engage employees on leaves of absence with our EAP, providing them the resources at the right time. Helping them to manage the range of life challenges they are facing. Several variables (type of leave, circumstances, etc.) can make tracking leave durations challenging; however, we found these key accomplishments:

• All employees offered the warm transfer to LifeSolutions accepted it for a 100-percent engagement rate. Employees transferred were open and supportive in hearing about the available services.

• Employees who utilized LifeSolutions’ extra support during approved Continuous Leave experienced far shorter leave time frames.

• Twelve percent of the transferred employees accepted supportive services beyond the discussion and informational flier.

The program involved a warm transfer to LifeSolutions EAP at the end of the initial leave request interaction. The care manager engaged in motivational interviewing and conversation that gave the employee information on services that could assist them based on their individual situation. Each employee’s original care manager made a followup call within 30 days to check on the employee and provide additional support.

LifeSolutions EAP can help your company build a productive and flourishing workforce by integrating your policies with our services. Contact LifeSolutions today at 1-844-833-0527.

Whitney DeStephano

is an account manager for Workpartners’ LifeSolutions. She has more than six years of experience in population health management and has worked with clients in diverse industries. To learn more about Workpartners’ LifeSolutions, visit lifesolutionsforyou.com or visit the Manufacturer & Business Association’s website mbausa.org.

STUDY: MAJORITY OF EMPLOYEES SEEKING EMPLOYERS WITH SIMILAR VALUES

Demonstrating a commitment to good corporate citizenship could be key to attracting and retaining top talent, according to a new study by Fidelity Charitable®, an independent public charity and the nation’s largest grantmaker. In an ongoing tight labor market, with unemployment at a low 3.5 percent, 86 percent of employees say it’s important to work for a company whose values align with their own.

86 percent of employees say it’s important to work for a company whose values align with their own

And 81 percent want to work for a company that has socially responsible business practice. Nearly 48 million people in the U.S. quit their jobs in 2021, and workers are still on the move. Half of all employees — and six in 10 Millennial and Gen Z workers — say they’re considering changing employers in the next year. Among those considering a switch, the desire for more meaningful work is in the top three reasons they are seeking a new job.

RESEARCH REVEALS NONPROFIT VOLUNTEERS MORE VALUED THAN EVER, BUT SCARCE

Nonprofit organizations grappling with increased demand, limited resources and reduced staffing since the global pandemic rely more than ever on volunteer engagement, but those volunteers are now harder to engage, according to research conducted by the University of Maryland.

The first-of-its-kind analysis about the state of U.S. volunteer engagement came out of a survey of more than 1,000 nonprofit CEOs and more than 100 funders that was led by the School of Public Policy’s Do Good Institute and funded in part by a new national collaboration, the Initiative for Strategic Volunteer Engagement.

The survey found that in 2022, nearly twothirds (64.4 percent) of nonprofits reported an increase in demand for their organizational services. Just over half (51.1 percent) expanded their delivery of services, and 48.5 percent boosted staff workloads to help meet demand. At the same time, 28.7 percent of nonprofits are operating with less funding and paid staff than they had before the pandemic.

Nonprofits are challenged by finding the right volunteer support as well as the capacity and infrastructure to sustain volunteer engagement. Nearly half (46.8 percent) of CEOs say that recruiting sufficient volunteers is a big problem for their organizations, particularly volunteers who are available during the traditional workday.

WHAT IS THE UNIFORMED SERVICES EMPLOYMENT & REEMPLOYMENT RIGHTS ACT (USERRA)?

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of membership in the uniformed services with regard to any aspect of employment. In addition, employers must:

• Re-employ individuals who are absent from employment by reason of service in the uniformed services;

• Restore seniority and other rights and benefits that employees had when they commenced service in the uniformed services; and

• Provide any additional seniority, rights and benefits that employees would have attained if they had remained continuously employed. Employers must also notify employees of their rights, benefits and obligations under USERRA.

I AM A SMALL EMPLOYER. DOES USERRA APPLY TO ME? WHICH EMPLOYEES?

USERRA applies to all public and private employers in the United States, regardless of size. It also applies in overseas workplaces that are owned or controlled by U.S. employers. The Act protects all individuals that are members of the U.S. uniformed services, including the Armed Forces, National Guard, commissioned public health service employees (for example, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Rights under USERRA are afforded to individuals who are volunteers, draftees or reservists. The Act gives protections to individuals who are absent from work for active duty, active duty for training, initial active duty for training (such as drills), inactive duty training, full-time National Guard duty and state active duty. USERRA also covers a period for which a person is absent from a position of employment for the purpose of an examination to determine the fitness of the person to perform any military duty.

Ways to Help Returning Veterans in Your Workplace

You may have veterans on your payroll who have recently returned from service. If so, these employees may be excited about their jobs, but they may also need time to adjust to civilian life and the workplace.

Co-workers and friends are often grateful for the veteran’s accomplishments. Yet as this treatment wears off, the grind of the daily routine can set in. Below are some issues that returning veterans deal with and may find difficult to adjust to, specifically concerning their return to work:

• A slower decision-making process in the business world than in combat situations

• Working at lower intensity levels in a quieter atmosphere and calmer environment, where anxiety and focus may be significantly lower

• Slower-paced schedules and relaxed attitudes

Employers who have veterans on their payroll can do many things to help them integrate into their jobs once they return from war.

• If employees appear as though they want to discuss their experiences, offer a listening ear. If they do not want to discuss these experiences, that position should be respected.

• Support employees with patience, encourage them to engage with others and provide opportunities for continued success.

• Leverage their skills learned in the military in their everyday roles.

• Offer the services of your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for veterans who need further assistance, counseling support, etc.

Returning veterans can provide unique knowledge and skills to your company. Retaining this type of talent is also beneficial from a public relations standpoint, as your organization is employing a demographic that has made substantial sacrifices for others.

Tammy Lamary-Toman, JD, PHR, is the vice president/employment counsel for the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ttoman@mbausa.org

Come Play With Us!

Special Olympics Pennsylvania provides yearround sports training and athletics competition in 22 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism with cognitive delay. The nonprofit organization partners with K-12 schools to promote social inclusion through Unified Champion Schools programs. Special Olympics offers free health screenings and services to athletes through its Healthy Athletes initiative. The program empowers and encourages athletes to become advocates and leaders in their community.

Special Olympics is all about JOY and INCLUSION, and you can help provide both for the organization’s 13,000 athletes in Pennsylvania while building a positive footprint for your company both in your local community and around the Keystone State.

In the northwest Pennsylvania region, Special Olympics serves athletes in Erie, Crawford, Warren, Mercer, Venango, Forest and Clarion counties. Programming is provided free of charge to all athletes and families, and the organization relies on the community partners to support its mission.

There are numerous ways to engage employees in Special Olympics’ programming to foster inclusion, team building and giving back:

EVENT VOLUNTEERS: Bring a group of employees out to competitions and events for a day of volunteering. Celebrate joy and cheer on athletes!

SPORT VOLUNTEERS: For every one sport volunteer, four athletes can play! Get a group of employees together to coach a team. No expertise needed — just the desire to have fun, make friends and help athletes achieve their personal best.

TEAM BUILDING: Create a team for one of Special Olympics’ fundraising events (Polar Plunge, anyone?) or corporate challenges and work together to achieve your goals! Special Olympics also can customize a day of fun and inclusion with athletes at your site. Think bocce and food trucks!

ATHLETE SPEAKERS/MENTORS: Inspire your employees with Special Olympics’ mission and stories by welcoming an Athlete Leader into your company for a presentation. Athlete Leaders in training are also in need of mentors.

SERVE AS UNIFIED PARTNERS: Does your company have a soccer team or walking club? Promote inclusion by serving as Unified Partners and playing on a team with Special Olympics athletes during their competition season or by partnering to support its health initiatives.

TO LEARN MORE: Contact Deanna Renaud, executive director Special Olympics Pennsylvania – Northwest Region at drenaud@specialolympicspa.org or 814/315-2041 Ext. 310.

Visit

Photo: Coach Mikaela Billings

Photo: Richie Velasquez

Special Olympics Pennsylvania – Northwest Region

The Manufacturer & Business Association regularly hosts a variety of informational and networking opportunities for members in the region. To learn more about upcoming events, visit mbausa.org.

Matt Clark, vice chairman of the Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors and general manager of Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM in Waterford, presented plaques to training graduates at the MBA’s recently Training Recognition Ceremony on April 25. At right is Casey Naylon, the MBA’s computer trainer and database administrator. In the middle is Excel Application Specialist Erie

The MBA’s Jezree Friend interviews Congressman Mike Kelly during the Association’s May 4 Legislative Luncheon in Erie. 

The MBA’s Judy Rosatti recently presented an anniversary plaque to the Bloomstine family in celebration of Insurance Management Company’s 90th year in business in Erie, Pennsylvania. 

Hosack of Erie Insurance. 

Tracy Daggett, PHR, manager of Professional Development Training Services at the MBA, introduces the training team, including Lisa DeFilippo, Rachel Tserkovniak and Casey Naylon, to the graduates and their employers. 

The Manufacturer & Business Association honored 65 graduates from 25 companies during the April 25 Recognition Ceremony. 

United Way of Erie County

United Way of Erie County

650 East Avenue, Suite 200

Erie, PA 16503

Phone: 814/456-2937

ww w.UnitedWayErie.org

Living United Leads to Successful Students and Thriving Families

United Way of Erie Count y is a local social impac t organization on a mission to crush povert y in our community We envision a collaborative community where all students succeed and all families thrive. That’s LIV ING UNITED.

Povert y is a complex social issue and will leveraging resources smartl y and work ing insidious cycle of povert y in Erie County will be broken.

United Way is investing in leveling the their families who face barriers to success. Simpl y put , break ing the cycle of poverty means break ing dow n these barriers. We believe all children should have equal opportunit y to receive a quality education!

generational poverty, United Way brought the community schools model to Erie Count y in 2016 When a traditional public school is transformed into a community school, an entire culture shif t takes place and resources are brought into the school

preventing s tudent s from being successful. A community school becomes a hub, rich h resources for s tudent s and their milies Communit y schools represent a strategy, not a program

16 communit y schools serv ing more than 8 ,800 students and their families throughout Erie County in Erie’s Public Schools, Girard School District, Iroquois School Distric t and Union City School District

What is a communit y school corporate par tner?

Corporate Partner s fund the Community ool Director s (CSD) , a criticall y important position CSDs are employed by United y (not the school district) bu t embedded their respective communit y school, becoming the “co-pilot ” to the principal and school team Many Corporate Partner s also

s is not onl y an investment in our most precious human capital, bu t also a strategic

estment in the future workforce of our community.

United Way simply could not carry out our mission of crushing poverty without dedicated corporate partners investing in this work.

To learn more and become a United Way community school corporate or funding partner, please contact: Julie Chacona, chief development officer at 814/456-2937 Ext. 256

Communit y School Corporate Partners

•Accudyn Products, Inc.

•American Tinning & Galvanizing

•Custom Engineering

•Erie Insurance

•Eriez Magnetics

•Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

•Larson Texts, Inc. and Big Ideas Learning LLC

•Lincoln Recycling

•Matrix Tool, Inc.

•Reddog Industries, Inc.

•Reed Manufacturing Company

•Smith Provision Company, Inc.

•Team Hardinger Transportation Company

•TechnipFMC

•Wabtec Corporation

•Widget Financial

•Women United for Community Schools

United Way of Erie County

You demand the best from your team. In return you want to give your employees the best that you have to offer. And with multiple affordable plan options for businesses of all sizes, an award-winning Health Care Concierge Team, and access to high-quality care locally and while traveling, UPMC Health Plan has you covered to meet your company’s diverse needs.

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