Who says students can’t be the teachers? This year, the United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. is turning the tables. For the first time, the organization’s Student Ambassador Club will serve as chairs of the 2026 annual campaign, leading an effort to teach the community what United Way does, who it helps, and why local support matters.
The campaign officially launches today with a bold new theme: United Way 101: The Class You Didn’t Know You Needed. And the lesson is simple: Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow.
“We wanted to do something different this year,” said Sarah Lonzi, United Way Executive Director. “There is some misunderstanding about what United Way does, and there are people in our community who may not realize just how much of an impact their support has right here at home. So, we thought, what better way to reintroduce United Way than to turn it into a class?” The teachers? Local students.
The Student Ambassador Club, made up of local high school students, will take an active leadership role throughout the campaign. They will help share the United Way story, educate their peers and the community, promote giving and volunteerism, and bring new energy and ideas to the campaign.
“This is about more than fundraising,” Lonzi said. “We are also giving these students an opportunity to lead. They are learning firsthand about philanthropy, community needs, leadership, and what it means to invest in the place they call home.”
So, what exactly is United Way 101?
That is the question the campaign hopes to answer. Throughout the fall, United Way will take the community “back to school” by sharing United Way 101 lessons about the organization and the people and programs it supports. What does your donation actually do? Where does the money go? Who benefits? What local needs are we trying to address? And perhaps most importantly, why should any of us care? The answers will come directly from the people and organizations impacted by United Way.
In 2025, United Way funding supported 42 community programs through 37 local nonprofits, helping address needs throughout McKean County. From children and families to education, health, basic needs, seniors, and community services, United Way dollars are invested locally to help make the community stronger.
The 2026 campaign has set a goal of $328,000 with $300,00 set for the Bradford/McKean Campaign, $18,000 to the Port Allegany Campaign and $10,000 to the Smethport Campaign. United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. receives no federal or state funding, making the generosity of local individuals, businesses, organizations, and community members critical to continuing its work. But this year’s campaign isn’t simply asking people to write a check. It’s asking them to pay attention. To learn. To get involved. And ultimately, to decide what role they want to play in the future of McKean County.
“Our students are going to be asking our community to take the class with them,” Lonzi said. “You don’t have to be a major donor. You don’t have to own a business. You don’t have to have hours of free time. There are so many ways to be part of United Way. We just want people to learn what is happening in their own community and find a way to contribute.”
The 2026 campaign runs September 1 through December 31. So, grab your backpack. Sharpen your pencil. United Way 101 is officially in session. Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow.
About United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc.: United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc. brings people and resources together to address local needs and improve the quality of life for individuals and families throughout the community. Through fundraising, volunteerism, partnerships, and strategic investments, United Way supports programs that help create a stronger, healthier, and more connected McKean County.
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