United by Community

United Way of Susquehanna County thanks the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains for their partnership in United by Community; their support will help fund our signature programs and the essential services from our partner agencies — from early childhood learning to food and housing assistance. Together this investment strengthens neighbors, builds resilience, and keeps critical programs running when they’re needed most.

On July 27, 2026 members of our community assembled a shade pavilion for Lathrop Street school. We are very excited and grateful that this work was accomplished. Thank you to Christmas in Montrose and the KMB123 Foundation for purchasing the structure! We know that many children will benefit from this project for years to come!

-Heather

In the past year I have had the amazing fortune to get to know Harvey Simpson, a former NYC developer who won one of three primary contracts to refurbish the Statue of Liberty in the late 80s. He is a kind-hearted human and a true gentleman. We had the great fortune to spend his 100th birthday with him this summer - an evening of true celebration with 150 of his closest friends. Harvey loves musicals and loves to sing, often breaking spontaneously into song when the mood strikes him. Every Saturday evening he sings 3-4 songs along with The Gandy Dancers in a local venue and everyone loves him. I am grateful to Harvey because he has shown me that a long life is one worth living, if lived with kindness, attention to health, and attention to continuing to build community. We are all looking forward to 101!

On the day of our son's wedding, there was so much to do! The wedding took place outdoors with a reception in a big white tent. The setting was beautiful, but on the morning of the wedding, the fields themselves were full of holes from the recent removal of apple trees. We were worried that people would twist an ankle or fall down by accidentally stepping in a hole. The clock was ticking, and the big job of filling the holes with mulch needed to be done pronto. It was truly overwhelming!

Without hesitation, my brother and sister recruited their kids to start filling the holes. Two hours later, the field was safely level with every hole neatly packed with mulch. The mown paths were set with solar twinkle lights to keep the path safe after dark. It felt like a miracle. Not only did they make the site safe, they did it cheerfully and energetically, adding to the excitement of the day.

Their help allowed the groom to focus on just getting married and his dad to focus on the finishing touches of his wedding toast. What a relief! Even the caterer noted: "You have an incredible hands-on family!" She is right, and I am grateful.

-Kate E.

One thing that sticks in my mind is a simple act of kindness. My wife and I bicycled from our home in Brackney to Montrose. We sat on the steps of the Post Office and ate a snack, When we got home, there was a message from borough police on my landline: You left your wallet on the steps. Someone turned it in.

Everything was there, and I have no idea who did it.

The community is just great.

-Stephen Spero

I'm grateful for being able to volunteer at the office and help with so many different projects.- Lisa

Several teenagers stepped in to care for and distract all the younger children when an adult was injured. Thankful also to emergency personnel responders. -LM

Our well pump went and my mom graciously let me use her shower! She also offered laundry services and food, but thankfully we got water restored quickly. She's always there anytime I need her.

My story has a event in our life that would have dropped most to the ground and it did us but myself I have seen and learned where my gratitude stands and has since, On 12/8/2024 it was a beautiful Winter morning and then the phone rang. As I answered I seen it was the man my son was with as he worked with him at times and we had just talked about this the day before. All I heard was Rebecca there has been a horrible accident and I started screaming where is Charlie??? It seemed like minutes and I kept asking and then the words I believe he’s deceased came from the other end and my world crashed. The room began to spin I lost my voice only to hear myself screaming and my other son took the phone. I knew only those words. I couldn’t even imagine and dropped to my knees begging God please take me instead over and over, Minutes later it was a dreadful car ride to CMC hospital and those horrible words again that I refused to believe and you only think happen to others came I am sorry we did everything we could. A mother’s nightmare. That night, that next day the phone, the people my community beside me. The other calls you did not want to make but did and my best friend Paula Smith was beside me. Not belonging to the church of Hope and Peace but running our local food pantry from it I needed a service for my son. God put me in the front row of a devils dream thinking I’d fall and go to my deepest of dark places but with the strength of the church, my friend and my volunteers from the weingburg community food pantry of Hop Bottom I was surrounded by those that I knew were beside me., Eight months later we lost another child my husbands son Joey after years of separation and only months of reunification somehow he was gone. Once again my friend Paula Smith was beside me, again the church of Hope and Peace and Pastor Richardson beside me and all my volunteer's. How we did it ? I do not know as 20 days later my father passed and five months my Step/Mom. Again I have no idea how I am and how I did it. The struggle is hard, sometimes unbearable but if the people in my circle would have not been there I would not have made it. These people are still beside me every month helping, holding me in my hard days and praying in my darker days. When you hear you never know trust me it’s real, when the devil puts you in the front row of a day he thinks he’s going to win you know it’s the people of your circle that stand beside you and guide you threw it. I cannot and will never be able to repay any of these amazing, loyal and wonderful people who still today show up and work endless hours at our local food pantry to stand beside me. My repay is to pay it forward in any way I can in my sons name and in Charlie’s memory. Dark days are going to always unfold in your world but with people like I have the healing has been a bit lighter and the pain erased in that moment with hugs from those who really care. To my friends and volunteers Thank you for being beside me when I thought I could not do another day. With love and gratitude from this Moms broken heart.- Rebecca Mordent

I want to tell you about a time when I had first moved up here from Florida. I had never driven in snow and unfortunately, I learned the hard way about ice on the road. I had hit a patch of ice and ended up in a ditch. The amount of people in this community who had stopped to check and make sure I was ok and tried to help me out was unbelievable. I had never had that much community be so concerned over a person they didn't know. Someone had even tried to hitch my car to their truck and pull me out. My tire was flat so it wouldn't budge. Anyway, I did have to wait for a tow truck, but the family who lived up the road took me in while I waited. I didn't even have to stay waiting in the cold. Everyone here was so nice and made a very scary moment in my life not so bad. I was very appreciative of the community I had landed in.

I am grateful to have a place to sing and celebrate the Christmas season with friends and neighbors. Tom Welch and Kristen Small do a great job of selecting music and making us sound wonderful!

I am grateful to every person and organization who works to keep our region rich in undeveloped spaces and in natural beauty. We get to enjoy the mountains, forests, fields, lakes, and rivers - the nighttime stars, the sunrises and sunsets - plus all the native creatures who also live here! Though I have lived in Susquehanna County for 50 years, I am still regularly stunned by nature's beauty in our corner of the world. Thank you for helping to keep our county beautiful!

I am grateful for Mike Hinchcliffe grooming the snowmobile trails.

WRC is so thankful for the many partnerships that help us to support individuals and families in our community who are experiencing intimate partner violence. As summer wraps up and we look towards the final months of 2026, we want to express our deep gratitude to Armetta's Pizzeria & Pub for hosting an annual toy drive during the holidays, as well as a big thank you to our generous community members who return year after year with donations to support it. Our advocate "elves" love being able to pass on these gifts to families who will open them together as they celebrate their holiday traditions in a home that is free from abuse.-Tiffany B.

I was looking for more exercise and noticed people playing pickleball at the park. It looked like fun, but I had never played a paddle sport and felt nervous about trying. The club members were so kind at teaching me how to play and having patience while I learned. I'm thankful for their kindness that has given me a new sport to play and new friends to share it with! -Peggy

I am grateful for the heroes of 9/11 who made the ultimate sacrifice to save innocent lives. We will never forget.

I am grateful for all of my friends that I have grown close to this last year. I am especially grateful for my best friend Penelope. She has been here for every step of the way, the highs and lows, the late nights of homework that never seem to end, and best of all she’s someone to share my joy with. Thank you so much Penelope for being the friend I always wished I had. -Lacey

I was pleased to see the request for letters of gratitude. I do believe that an attitude of gratitude

is the way to live.

As you know, I am the Co-chair of the Montrose Mobile Food Pantry. The food pantry takes

place every month, rain or shine, hot weather or freezing temps. Although the food is donated by

several organizations, the core element of the pantry is its volunteers. Without these dedicated

workers, the pantry could not function. The day proceeds like clockwork with everyone doing

their part. Some unload the trucks; some decide the quantities to be given in a portion; some

form assembly lines and bag dry food items as others keep the items in stock on the opposite side

of the table. Huge bags of potatoes and green beans are divided into individual portions. Others

break down the myriad of empty boxes for recycling. Our traffic director keeps the lines of cars

in order and safe along the roadway. Several volunteers register recipients in their cars and

many hands make light work of loading the cars with food.

No one gripes, no one complains. We have great comradery. And everyone shows up to do it

again every month. We all work together for the benefit of feeding our neighbors. For this

wonderful group of good hearted souls, I am truly grateful.

In gratitude,

Lynne Graham

Incredibly thankful for my church family.
Whenever someone needs something—prayer, a meal, a ride, help splitting wood—there’s always someone ready and willing to help.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of Susquehanna County — and I’m so grateful for each one. Running a small business here takes grit and creativity; you stick it out to provide needed services, find new ways to keep things fresh, and save your neighbors time and money by keeping commerce local. Your friendly, helpful service and commitment to our community make a real difference every day.

I'm so grateful for the Real Men Read volunteers who bring something special to the classroom, brightening students' days with excitement, curiosity, and a steady presence. They share more than stories — they give compassion, knowledge, and time, showing up to listen and prove someone cares.

I am so grateful for my favorite charity, **True Friends Animal Shelter**, and the incredible work they do for animals in need.

Recently, True Friends took in **29 new dogs all at once**—29 lives that needed safety, love, medical care, food, attention, and, most importantly, a second chance. Watching the shelter team step up to care for every single one of them has been truly inspiring. They have worked tirelessly to make sure these amazing pups receive the proper care they need while also working diligently to find each of them a loving forever home.

I am especially grateful that I have the opportunity to volunteer with True Friends and play even a small part in helping these dogs find the families they deserve. Every dog has a story, a personality, and so much love to give, and it is incredibly rewarding to watch them begin their journey toward a better life.

Thank you, True Friends Animal Shelter, for always being there for animals who need someone to believe in them. I am so thankful to be part of your mission and to help give these amazing pups the happy endings they deserve.  -Ciara

I’m grateful that our county has the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, which provides every child with a free book each month from birth until age five. Both of my children participated in the program and now have quite a collection of books on their bookshelves. We saw firsthand how having new books available encouraged their excitement for reading, and expanded their vocabulary and comprehension. It is such a meaningful investment in children and families, and I’m grateful that families throughout our county have access to it! -Shealynn Shave

My gratitude tree was planted 11 years ago, during one of the most difficult times in my life.

My childhood friend, Kyle, tragically passed away in a motor vehicle accident. He was only 20 years old. Losing someone so young changed the way I looked at life. It made me realize just how short our time here can be, and I knew I wanted to use the time I was blessed enough to have to make a difference.

Not long after, I stumbled into the United Way building. I had no idea what United Way did, who they were, or that walking through those doors would completely change the direction of my life. Within a few days, I was hired.

Over the next several years, I began to understand just how much good was happening inside that building and throughout our community. I saw people helping neighbors through difficult times, children being given opportunities they may not otherwise have had, families receiving support when they needed it most, and a community continually showing up for one another.

Somewhere along the way, I realized how incredibly lucky I was. Giving back wasn't something I had to find time to do after work. Giving back was my work.

For the past 11 years, my gratitude tree has continued to grow, flourish, and bloom. Every person I've met, every family we've helped, every child we've supported, every volunteer who has stepped forward, and every community member who has chosen to give has added another branch.

Today, I can genuinely say that I love my job. I love the people I work with, and I love the people I work for...the people of this community. I am incredibly thankful to wake up every day knowing that I get to do something I love and, more importantly, knowing that the work we do is making a real difference in people's lives.

My gratitude tree may have been planted during a time of tremendous loss, but what has grown from it has given me purpose, perspective, and countless reasons to be thankful.

And 11 years later, it's still growing. -Ayrin

I am grateful that I get to spend my days serving and hanging out with some of the coolest people I know.

I am grateful for the amazing leadership staff I work alongside here at Arrowhead Bible Camp. Day after day they take time and effort to pour into our lives which not only develops us to grow in the work place but also personally and professionally. I would not be who I am today without them. I thank them and am grateful for all they have done and will continue to do.

I am grateful for the behind the scenes people that do the work for our community. It does not go unnoticed.

I am grateful for family, friends and health. God has truly blessed me.

Recently, I watched someone in our community take time out of their day to give back to local teens, simply because they wanted them to feel supported and know that people care about them. Through my work, I’m fortunate to see acts of kindness like this often, and it never stops making me grateful for the people in our community who continue to show up for our young people.

I am grateful for the South Montrose food bank.

I am grateful for the New Milford food bank.-Dave

I have wonderful neighbors that cut my grass every 2 weeks. They don't charge me..

I'm grateful for the Susquehanna Food Bank. I'm 72 years old and on a fixed income. I don't think I'd be able to afford my medications without this help.-Alinda

I'm grateful for a roof over my head and food.

I am grateful to the Goff/Puzo family for sharing their space with us as we sort through a donation of clothing for the local schools. This is simply one of many things they do for the community....just ask the Dairy Princesses or the people they give rides to at Chirstmas in Montrose or one of the smiling participants of the Kiddie Tractor Pull at the Harford Fair. Our community is so much better because they are in it! -Tom

I’m grateful for you Tom Follert! A great brother, wonderful husband and dad and an amazing advocate for your community! You are an enthusiastic doer for good! I am grateful for you and your spirit. Keep up the unique, amazingness of you!! You have made a difference in my life in too many ways to count. Thank you! ❤️-Elizabeth

Thank you to all the coaches that take the time as volunteers to teach our kids about teamwork, compassion, hard work, and respect. Its not written on paper or graded but you see it on the field. Our kids are the first to take a knee when a player from either side is down. Proud to be part of a community that cares about its youth.

Good job coaches! -Nancy

I am so grateful for good friends! We've had so many friends help us in so many ways- helped with firewood, let us borrow a car for getting to appointments in Philadelphia, and just always there to help!

I am so grateful for my parents. Our house needs a lot of work and they have been so great as to come and spend a lot of time and effort helping me fix things. They could be spending their retirement traveling and relaxing but instead they are doing physical labor all to help me!

I am so thankful to those who help with our church's children's ministry. It can be very challenging, but also extremely rewarding. They may be having a difficult time but they show up with activities prepared, always showing love and care to our students even when our students are having bad days and may not be in a teachable mood.

I am so grateful to have kind neighbors that are respectful, always happy to see you, offer help when you need it and help keep our area a peaceful respite!

My story of gratitude begins with my very best friend Heather. Heather has become more than a friend, she has become by family. She goes above and beyond for the people in her life and is more than willing to lend a hand to a complete stranger. She is my person and I'm grateful for the light she brings to my life and those around us. -Deb

My neighbor helped me out in a time of need. It was unexpected but very appreciated.

My neighbor comes over and plows my driveway every time it snows without being asked. He knows it's hard for me to get it done and is so gracious about it.

I am so thankful to have grown up in a wonderful neighborhood where kids played in the yard and came home at dark. The adults in the neighborhood looked out for all of the kids and we all knew what we could get away with and what we couldn't. Now, raising kids in the same vicinity, our kids are experiencing the same environment. For all that changes, I am grateful that this nurturing and caring environment for our kids has not.

I love surprise pop in visits. Whether it's friends or neighbors or occasionally people you grew up with who are back for a visit. Knowing people care enough to stop by means the world!

I cannot wait for for Artist Open House Weekend in Susquehanna County! It is my favorite weekend of the year. I love going and seeing the beauty created right here in our backyard! It is always breathtaking and it renews my soul!

“I am so grateful for the See to Succeed program. Thanks to the school nurse and this program, my daughter was able to get a free eye exam and 2 pairs of eyeglasses when we would not have been able to afford them otherwise. Not only that, but without that early intervention, it may have been years before we truly noticed that she needed them. Thank you for this incredible program!”