United Way Success Stories
Behind every financial gift and dedicated hour of volunteer service is a story of someone overcoming a challenge to build a stable future. We bring people together to ensure no one in Berks County navigates difficult times alone.
Through trusted local partners and initiatives to empower youth, strengthen health, build stability, and support in times of crisis, we help families get through today and thrive tomorrow. Read the success stories below to see the lasting impact of building a community for all.
PATHWAYS TO IMPACT
Become a Volunteer
From annual events like the Big Cheese and the Day of Caring to a regular commitment, each and every volunteer can make a difference.
Become a Donor
Join our family of supporters and offer a financial gift. UWBC is committed to investing dollars where they're needed most across Berks. Together, we're changing lives.
Read Our Many Stories of Impact
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From the Ashes: Overcoming Disaster Together
On a cold morning in Reading, Pennsylvania, on Sep. 4, 2025, 38 people watched their lives burn. At 5:30 a.m., a devastating fire ravaged three buildings and 10 apartment units, leaving 28 adults and 10 children homeless in minutes. But thanks to the support of the...
From the Sidelines to Center Stage: Zahavah’s Story of Growth
Growth doesn’t always announce itself loudly. For Zahavah Oliveras, growth began quietly in the sixth grade at the Olivet Boys & Girls Club in Berks County. Her journey was made possible through the strategic investment and partnership of the United Way of Berks...
Opening New Doors: Doug’s Journey to Stability
For Doug Dimmig, education once felt like a luxury he couldn’t afford. His children have always been his priority. As a young father, Doug left high school to care for them. Years later, as a single parent, navigating a divorce, the idea of finishing his education,...
More than a Building: A Path to Belonging
The place we call home is far more than a building—it’s where we experience love, companionship, and where we feel safe. But for some youth in our community, the concept of home has always seemed far away. In 2023, 16-year-old twins Dreylin and Demeechy had a...
Worth the Wait: Jacob’s Mentorship Story
Sometimes, meeting the right person is worth the wait. In 2020, LaCasha reached out to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berks County to find a “Big” (mentor) for her “Little” (mentee) 8-year-old son, Jacob. Like many single moms, the most important thing for her was to...
Daniel’s Journey of Recovery with Tower Health at Home and United Way
It was a night that Kathy Griess will never forget. Her husband, Daniel, came home from his evening shift as a BARTA bus driver and went to sleep. When she went to wake him, his speech was incomprehensible. She called 911, and her then 74-year old husband was admitted...
Responding to Crisis: American Red Cross Impacts Berks County
Last July, a massive storm system hit Berks County with 5” to 8” inches of rain causing flash flooding in multiple areas. American Red Cross PA Rivers Chapter, a United Way agency partner, jumped into action by providing shelter for residents of a Reading apartment...
Empowering Abilities: Danielle’s Success Story with Threshold/Berks Personnel Network and United Way
Danielle is a vibrant and joyful 22-year-old who works hard to extend beyond her intellectual and developmental disability. With help from Threshold/Berks Personnel Network, supported by United Way of Berks County, she is able to work independently in a role she...
Edward’s Story with Meals on Wheels and United Way
At age 99, Edward is a proud WWII Navy Veteran who has received more than a dozen medals and commendations for saving his ship from sinking when it was attacked. Edward is an American hero; he is also a Meals on Wheels recipient, thanks to your support of the United...
Matt’s Journey to Independence with United Way and Mary’s Shelter
At 17, Matt’s world fell apart. His parents left him and his younger siblings; his siblings were able to be with other family members. Matt was suddenly left on his own. After weeks of couch-surfing with different friends, he found Mary’s Shelter. Matt took...