READING, Pa. – For Yaniret Medrano, this experience has been eye-opening.
“As a Loaned Campaign Specialist, I didn’t know how much our community was in need until we came here in the office,” Medrano said.
Medrano works for Alcon, but for the last 13 weeks, she’s been serving as a Loaned Campaign Specialist with the United Way of Berks County, helping raise funds and awareness for programs supporting thousands of families in the community.
“We open people’s eyes. We are letting them know the agency is available for them in case they’re in need,” she said.
She and 15 other employees from companies across Berks County have temporarily stepped away from their regular roles to help United Way run its annual campaign.
“They are the boots on the ground,” said Sheila Tulli, Vice President of Resource Development. “They are out sharing their stories, creating connection, and helping us to raise the important dollars that we need to help us reach our goal.”
This year’s campaign goal is $10.75 million. So far, $6.7 million has been raised.
Tulli says strong campaign results are essential as many nonprofits face uncertainty.
“To have a strong annual campaign result that can be a source of stability for the local nonprofit community is paramount,” she said.
For fellow Loaned Campaign Specialist Liza Singson, the work is deeply personal.
“Since I was 17 years old. Since I survived from poverty. So, my mission is to help, to serve, and to keep the hopes alive for everyone,” Singson said.
The campaign runs through November 20th.