United Way’s ‘Raise the Bar’ Kicks Off 2025 Campaign with Spirited Competition
Uniondale, PA – The United Way of Susquehanna County successfully launched its 2025 annual campaign with its popular “Raise the Bar” event, held on Friday, September 26th, at Chet’s Place. Community members gathered for an evening of live music, light hors d’oeuvres, basket raffles and spirited competition, all aimed at raising essential funds for local non-profit organizations.
The event featured three local leaders stepping behind the bar as celebrity bartenders, collecting tips and pre-event donations to support the United Way’s mission in the county: “Helping Children Do Well.” The energy of the night translated directly into impactful fundraising, signaling strong community support for the upcoming campaign year.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2025 Raise the Bar Champion. While all bartenders generated significant support, the competition this year was particularly fierce.
Becky Fekette from Williams Companies proved to be the crowd favorite on the night, generating the highest amount of tips at the event itself. However, Alyssa Sprout of Montrose Borough secured the overall title of 2025 Raise the Bar Champion due to her exceptional dedication and hard work in securing pre-event contributions. Both bartenders, along with fellow competitor Bonnie Morris of Coterra, showed tremendous commitment to the cause, helping to raise an incredible $15,000!
“This is more than just a kick-off; it’s a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve when we come together,” said Tom Follert, Regional Community Director of the United Way of Susquehanna County. “We are incredibly grateful for the energy and generosity of our celebrity bartenders, and for the countless hands that made this event run smoothly.”
Special thanks goes to Jean, Mark, Joe, and their team from Chet’s Place for being the most incredible hosts, ensuring a welcoming and fun atmosphere for all attendees.
The success of “Raise the Bar” is only the beginning. Funds raised directly benefit the United Way of Susquehanna County, supporting local programs focused on education, financial stability, and health throughout Susquehanna County.
Now, we invite the entire community to join the momentum! The 2025 Campaign needs your support to ensure vital programs—like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and the Holiday Meal Drive—can continue and expand.
You can contribute to the 2025 Campaign by visiting www.unitedwayofsusquehannacounty.org or sending a check to United Way of Susquehanna County, 67 Public Ave, Montrose, PA 18801.
“Raise the Bar” would not have been possible without the generous support of the following sponsors: Green Gables, American Legion Post 154, Andre and Son, Briechle Law, Broadline Construction, Chamberlain & Diaz Real Estate Team, Hawk Insurance, Herbert Excavating, Johnson, Lauder & Savidge, Liberty Carpet, Kerr Orthodontics, Progressive Dental, Snake Creek Marine, United Fire Company, The Relic, RLE Enterprises, NBT Bank, Spectrum Electric, Williams Companies, Waldron Custom Meats, People’s Security Bank and Trust, Montrose Borough, Wilder Diamond Blades.
Funds raised from “Raise the Bar” directly benefit the United Way of Susquehanna County, supporting local programs focused on education, financial stability, and health throughout Susquehanna County.
