On Saturday, October 25, over 400 community members came together at the Lancaster County Convention Center to celebrate a century of connection, compassion, and impact for the 100th anniversary of United Way of Lancaster County (UWLC).
Guests were invited to step back in time through a visual journey of United Way’s legacy before entering the event space. You could take a walk down memory lane of photos, memorabilia, and stories spanning the past century. A unique audio-visual experience brought that history to life, placing guests “inside the moment” of a 211 call for help and a vintage campaign PSA, reminding everyone of the organization’s enduring role in times of need.
There was also the opportunity to hope for the future. Guests could write their thoughts about a United future and add them to a string display for all to see.
The evening’s program reflected United Way’s past, present, and future. Former UWLC Board Member Tom Baldrige and longtime President & CEO Susan Eckert, who led UWLC from 1987–2012, shared reflections from decades of service and leadership. Susan received a heartfelt standing ovation in recognition of her remarkable contributions.
Representing today’s leadership and the vision ahead, Board Chair Brooke Smith and President & CEO Kate Zimmerman inspired guests with stories of how United Way continues to adapt to the evolving needs of our community. Kate highlighted recent examples of this work — including the creation of the Food & Shelter Fund, which filled urgent funding gaps for emergency services, and United Way’s leadership in convening partners to respond to changes in SNAP and LIHEAP benefits during the federal government shutdown.
The program also featured moving video stories, produced by WE & Company, spotlighting the impact of cornerstone programs like PA 211 East and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), along with Tenfold’s partnership story illustrating how United Way’s grantmaking and collaboration continue to drive positive change across Lancaster County.
In true United Way spirit, the celebration turned into a moment of collective generosity. Auctioneer Tim Keller of the Fundraising Auction Team led a live appeal inviting guests to invest in the next century of impact. The result was extraordinary. Attendees raised their paddles high and surpassed the goal, contributing an incredible $123,000 toward United Way’s mission as they launch into “Day One of Year 101.”
The celebration continued late into the evening as guests filled the dance floor to the high-energy sounds of Erich Cawalla & The Uptown Band. Laughter, reconnections, and new friendships filled the room — a fitting tribute to an organization built on bringing people together for the common good.
United Way’s Centennial Celebration was not only a look back at the past 100 years, but also a resounding statement about the power of community, partnership, and hope for what comes next.
Thank you to everyone who made this milestone possible!
