St. Marys, PA – The St. Marys Area United Way recently received a generous $1,500 donation from Stifel O’Leary Piccolo Launer and Fledderman Wealth Management Group. This contribution will help advance the organization’s efforts to meet its $220,000 fundraising goal for the upcoming year.

The donation was accepted by United Way representatives, including Jim Ryan, Vice President; Doug Bauer, Vice President; Doug Gaffey, Corporate Campaign Chair; and Jason Gabler, board member. The Stifel team, led by John Piccolo, presented the check at their Brusselles Street office, where they’ve been serving the financial needs of Elk County and surrounding communities for over 30 years.

The funds raised during the 2024 campaign will be distributed to local non-profits in 2025. Eligible organizations must meet the following criteria to apply for funding:

• Hold a current 501(c)(3) status
• Provide services to residents within the St. Marys Area School District
• Address health and human welfare needs
• Be registered with the PA State Bureau of Charitable Solicitation or qualify for an exemption

Organizations interested in applying for grants can contact the St. Marys Area United Way at 814-781-6000 or visit www.smauw.org to request an application. The deadline for 2025 grant applications is December 15, 2024, with awards to be announced in 2025.

The success of the 2023 campaign enabled the United Way to support vital community organizations in 2024, including:

• Alcohol & Drug Abuse Services
• Boys & Girls Club of St. Marys
• Boy Scouts Bucktail Council
• CAPSEA
• Catholic Charities
• Dickinson Center’s Crossroad Program
• Dickinson Center’s St. Marys building project
• Elkland Search and Rescue
• Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania
• Guardian Angel Center
• Jay Township Fire Department
• St. Marys Public Library
• St. Marys Recreation and Parks
• St. Marys Area School District’s elementary library program
• Maintenance of the Eternal Flame on the Diamond in downtown St. Marys

Since 1925, the St. Marys Area United Way has been dedicated to supporting the health and welfare of the community. Relying on the generosity of local businesses and individuals, the United Way plays a crucial role in meeting the financial needs of local non-profit agencies.

For more information on how to contribute as a corporate or individual donor, please contact the St. Marys Area United Way at 814-781-6000 or visit www.smauw.org.