Bradford, PA — The United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. (UWBA) will host its annual Red Feather Awards Dinner on Wednesday, April 30, 2026, at The Bradford Club. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. The evening will feature a light hors d’oeuvre buffet, live music by Jim Ronan, and recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations whose service and generosity continue to strengthen the Bradford community. Tickets are $25 per person, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

This special event celebrates the spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy by honoring community members whose dedication supports the UWBA’s mission and improves the quality of life throughout the region. The 2026 Red Feather Award recipients are: John Vanerstrom with the Red Feather Award, Festa Italiana with the Excellence in Representation Award, and Just Riding Along Bike Shop with the Small Business Award.

This year’s Red Feather Award will be presented to John Vanerstrom, a dedicated volunteer and community advocate. A benefit consultant who analyzes insurance strategies for larger businesses, Vanerstrom was born and raised in Bradford, moved away for nearly 30 years, and returned last year because of his deep appreciation for the community, its safety, outdoor opportunities, and the friendliness of its residents.

Vanerstrom has contributed his time and talents to numerous organizations and initiatives, including serving on the United Way Board and volunteering with the DAV Triathlon, Care for Children, CASA, the Blaisdell Pro-Am, Kids for Cancer, Willow Creek Snowmobile Club, Willow Creek Sportsman’s Club, Special Olympics, and Variety — the Children’s Charity during his years in Pittsburgh. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, golfing, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, and hunting.

He credits community service with shaping his character and outlook on life. “Volunteering has taught me how to be humble, giving, and caring for neighbors,” Vanerstrom said. He added that his motivation comes from a desire to give back to the community that has given so much to him and to previous generations.

Vanerstrom described receiving the award as both an honor and a humbling experience. “I believe that a team earns these — nobody can do it alone,” he said, noting that many volunteers contribute quietly without recognition. He encourages others to get involved in causes they care about, emphasizing that helping others provides perspective and fulfillment.

The Excellence in Representation Award will be presented to Festa Italiana, a beloved community tradition organized by members of the LaStella Lodge and the LaStella Auxiliary. For more than 50 years, the annual festival has celebrated Italian heritage while raising funds that are donated back to the community.

Under the leadership of President Mary Ann Colestro-McCalla and a dedicated volunteer committee, Festa Italiana has become one of Bradford’s most cherished cultural events. Proceeds from the festival support a wide range of local organizations, including youth sports teams, school programs, charitable groups, senior services, cultural initiatives, animal welfare organizations, and community agencies.

Organizers say the event is deeply rooted in family tradition. Many current volunteers grew up attending the festival and watching parents, grandparents, and relatives devote countless hours to preserving its traditions and purpose.

Through their efforts, Festa Italiana not only celebrates cultural heritage but also strengthens the community by reinvesting funds where they are most needed. Representatives say they are honored to receive the award and proud to continue a legacy of service passed down through generations.

The Small Business Award will be presented to Just Riding Along Bike Shop for its longstanding contributions to outdoor recreation and community engagement. Founded in 2003 by a lifelong Bradford resident, Pete Dzirkalis, the shop has served as both a successful local business and a hub for cycling enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Pete has been involved in cycling, hiking, and skiing for most of his life and competed in mountain bike racing for three decades. He has worked in bike shops since 1992 and has dedicated significant time to improving regional trail systems and promoting outdoor recreation.

Since 2011, he has served on the board of the Trails at Jakes Rocks/TVTA organization and chaired the Winter Trek event for seven years. His volunteer work includes trail maintenance such as clearing, drainage improvements, signage, and blazing. He also secured grant funding to support the design and development of new flow trails on Quintuple Mountain on University of Pittsburgh at Bradford property.

In addition, the business sponsors numerous local events and fundraisers each year, particularly those benefiting trail organizations and mountain biking groups throughout the region. The owner credits community involvement as essential to making the area feel like home and describes customers and fellow outdoor enthusiasts as extended family.

Although he does not seek recognition, he said he is honored to receive the Small Business Award and grateful for the support of his family and loyal customers over the years. He encourages others to get involved, noting that giving back is deeply rewarding and fosters meaningful connections.

The UWBA invites community members to attend the Red Feather Awards Dinner and join in celebrating the individuals and organizations whose dedication helps ensure that vital services, programs, and opportunities remain available throughout the Bradford area.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. at 814-368-6181 or email us at sarah.lonzi@uwbanews.org. RSVPs are due by April 17th.

About United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc.

For over a century, the United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. has served as a cornerstone of community support, providing funding and resources to local agencies and programs that assist individuals and families in need. Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, businesses, and volunteers, UWBA works to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.