SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — The Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy initiative hosted a free community screening of the documentary “Join or Die” on Monday as part of the foundation’s 2026 Civic Health Documentary Series.
The film, inspired by social scientist Robert Putnam’s “Bowling Alone” research, explores the importance of civic engagement in America while highlighting community involvement and the role clubs, service organizations and community groups can play in strengthening democracy and connection.
President and CEO of the foundation, Laura Ducceschi, said research continues to show how connectedness can improve quality of life, helping people feel less isolated and more like they are part of a group, which is why the foundation hosted the screening.
“It’s about the importance of connectedness, and we’re featuring it because one of our priority areas is what’s called civic health connectedness. Making sure people have the ability to participate in their communities, that they have spaces to do it, that they get access to information that matters, and that they feel that sense of social connectedness,” said Ducceschi.
Following the film, the foundation hosted a brief community conversation about ways to build connection and civic engagement across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
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The Women in Philanthropy Civic Health Documentary Series continues with upcoming screenings focused on survivors and the justice system, media portrayals of women and reform in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Upcoming films include “Loud Enough – Surviving Justice” on April 13, “Miss Representation” on Oct. 19 and “Uncharitable” on Nov. 16. For more information, visit the Scranton Area Community Foundation website.