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 $200,000 fundraising goal for the upcoming year.

The donation was accepted by United Way representatives, including Jim Ryan, President; Doug Bauer, Vice President; Doug Gaffey, Corporate Campaign Chair. The Stifel team 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 2025 campaign will be distributed to local non-profits in 2026. 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, 2025, with awards to be announced in 2026.

The success of the 2024 campaign enabled the United Way to support vital community organizations in 2025, including:

• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services
• Boys & Girls Club of St. Marys
• CAPSEA
• City of St. Marys Parks and Recreation
• Crystal Fire Department
• Dickinson Center
• Elkland Search & Rescue
• Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania
• Guardian Angel Center
• St. Marys Ambulance
• St. Marys Area School District
• St. Marys Public Library
• West Creek Recreational Trail
• Veterans Memorial – Eternal Flame (located on the Diamond in downtown St. Marys)

In 2025, the St. Marys Area United Way will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Since 1925, the organization has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents of St. Marys and surrounding communities. United Way relies on the generosity of local businesses and individuals to support vital health and human service programs across the region.

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.