In This Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of United Way of Lake County’s newsletter! As we continue our mission to uplift and support those in need, we’re excited to share updates on our latest initiatives, upcoming events, and the incredible impact your generosity makes in our community. From empowering families to improving education and health outcomes, your involvement is driving real change in Lake County. Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Spotlight On Our Team: Get to Know Zach!

Zach Siebert, United Way of Lake County CFO

Our 2024 Legacy Campaign Officially Launched August 28th with Two Dynamic Co-Chairs at the Helm

We were thrilled to officially kick off our 2024 Legacy Campaign on August 28th at Great Lakes Mall, where we reintroduced Ed and Nancy Brown as our Campaign Co-Chairs. The Browns, who last led the campaign in 2009, have returned to again guide this important initiative with their passion and commitment.

As we reflect on the progress and challenges over the years, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a stronger community. During our kickoff celebration, UWLC President & CEO Dione DeMitro captured this sentiment perfectly when she said, "We live in a very different world today than we did when Ed and Nancy last served as our Campaign Co-Chairs. Even so, I still believe that people have more in common than not. I like to think that we all share the belief that every child in Lake County deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, to have three meals a day, a roof over their head, access to high-quality education, and the assurance that they are loved. I also believe that everyone is entitled to a safe place to live, including shelter for our homeless, refuge from domestic violence, and access to healthcare.” 

Much Has Changed, Yet So Much Remains the Same.

That was Then.

2004 Campaign Kickoff

Great Lakes Mall

This is Now.

2024 Campaign Kickoff

Great Lakes Mall

2024 United Way of Lake County Campaign Cabinet Members

(See a list of our 2024 Campaign Cabinet Members here)

United Way of Lake County

Board of Directors

(See a list of our Board here)

UWLC President & CEO Dione DeMitro (left) with 2024 Campaign Co-Chairs Nancy and Ed Brown

In a special announcement during the event, DeMitro revealed two exciting raffle prizes donated to drive donations throughout the campaign. Mentor Nissan has generously contributed $10,000 in cash, while the Browns have donated a lifetime of free monthly services to Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa. These prizes will be raffled off through April 30, 2025, with tickets available for purchase at uwlc.org/salon, where complete details and contest rules can also be found. All proceeds will benefit Lake County residents in need.

In addition to purchasing raffle tickets, there are many ways you can help support our mission to measurably improve the lives of Lake County residents and to help ensure that no one in need stands alone. Monetary gifts allow us to make the greatest impact, but you can also lend your support by volunteering, sponsoring events, attending fundraisers, or donating raffle prizes and in-kind services. 

United Way of Lake County’s Second Annual Jail & Bail Raises Over $13,000 to Support Local Programs

We hosted our second annual Jail & Bail Fundraiser on Friday, September 6th, raising more than $13,000 in support of our work filling gaps in need through the funding of nonprofit programs critical to our community in the areas of education, health, and financial stability.

Thirteen brave “jailbirds” from Lake County businesses and organizations volunteered to be “arrested” as part of the fun, with each setting personal fundraising goals to help residents in need by making requests to be jailed or bailed. Turns out all were jailed, and Laketran CEO Ben Capelle provided and drove the perfect paddy wagon—a Laketran bus turned “jail”—while Lieutenant Bryan Bowen of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office tracked them down, complete with handcuffs and a reading of their UWLC rights.

Concord Township Fire Chief Matt Sabo Attempts to Highjack the Jail Bus

Ryan Gilkerson of Ville City Branding Being Reprimanded for Bad Behavior by Jail Bus Driver Ben Capelle, CEO of Laketran

Morris Beverage III, President of Lighthouse Advisers, Poses for his Mug Shot After Being Placed Under Arrest

UWLC President & CEO Dione DeMitro Helping to Keep the Peace inside the Paddy Wagon

Despite a Few Holdouts, We Managed a Group Photo of these Fiesty Jailbirds

Tricia Johnston, President & CEO of Leadership Lake County is Escorted to the Laketran Jail Bus by Lieutenant Bryan Bowen of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office

Among the “criminals” were Morris Beverage III of Lighthouse Advisers, Erica Acheson-Dunay of Key Private Bank, Ryan Gilkerson of Ville City Branding, Joe Glavan of Mentor Public Schools and Lakeland Community College, Michelle Graf of The Lubrizol Corporation, Tricia Johnston of Leadership Lake County, Patrick Mohorcic of Lake Development Authority, Patty Perry of ProMark Enterprises, Andy Phelps of Truist, Concord Township Fire Chief Matt Sabo, Eastlake City Council at Large Michael Semick, AnDao Silbaugh of Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa, and Dana Wolfe of the Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce.   

As the bus rolled through town with music blaring and plenty of mayhem on board, the “jailbirds,” including Beverage, Gilkerson and Silbaugh, made the most of their time behind bars with Gilkerson and Sabo even attempting to hijack the “jail bus.”

“We’re thrilled to see this event grow,” said UWLC President and CEO Dione DeMitro. “The energy of everyone who generously participated was incredible. They’re helping us meet the increasing needs in our community, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

The wild bus tour of arrests wrapped up at SOL in downtown Willoughby, where the “convicts” were treated to a well-deserved final meal.

Agency Partner Spotlight

Catholic Charities of Lake County

Celebrating Heritage and Empowering Communities: United Way Supports Catholic Charities Hispanic Outreach

In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, we are honored to share our support of Catholic Charities' Lake County Hispanic Outreach Program. National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the cultures, histories, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The month pays tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

Catholic Charities' Lake County Hispanic Outreach Program assists individuals, families, and groups in navigating the challenges of adjusting to life in our community. With the help of bilingual staff, the program offers personalized case management, social services, bilingual counseling, and more.

The $15,000 grant we most recently provided to Catholic Charities helps to ensure our Hispanic community has access to crucial resources such as medical appointment assistance, community education on essential topics like taxes and renters' rights, and much more. Together, we celebrate Hispanic heritage and work toward building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

Get Involved!

Upcoming Events, Volunteer Opportunities, and More.

Speaker Series: STOP Human Trafficking in Northeast Ohio

Thursday, October 10 | 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Location: The Paradigm Building at Mentor High School

Don't miss this chance to be a part of something bigger! Join Women United on the evening of October 10th at The Paradigm at Mentor High School for a powerful and inspiring Speaker Series on Human Trafficking in Northeast Ohio. Our keynote speaker, moderator, and seven expert panelists are passionate advocates sharing real stories, solutions, and ways we can help support anti-trafficking efforts - all in a warm, welcoming environment complete with a light meal and a resource reception.

The Speaker Series will shed light on questions such as:

• What exactly is human trafficking?
• How prevalent is it in Northeast Ohio?
• What are some key warning signs & red flags?
• What is its impact on victims and their families?
• What care and resources are available for victims and their families?

This Speaker Series is open to all members of our community - all genders - with advance registration. Register now or click here for more details, including information about our keynote speaker, moderator, and panelists.

Bottles, Boards & Boutiques: A Women United Happy Hour Social in Support of Wine Donations for Winterfest!

Wednesday, October 30 | 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Location: Mentor Harbor Yachting Club

Register now to join Women United for a lovely, fun-filled evening at the picturesque Mentor Harbor Yachting Club! Women United looks forward to seeing you at Bottles, Boards & Boutiques for a lively happy hour with great company, delicious charcuterie boards, a curated shopping experience featuring many local boutiques, and a fun raffle! This unique new event supports a great cause - raising donations of red and white wine for Women United's upcoming Women's Winterfest & Holiday Food Tasting fundraiser to benefit Lake County women and children in need!

Purpose: Please bring a minimum of one $10+ bottle of red or white wine to donate to Winterfest! And we would not be mad if you donated more than one! For every bottle of wine you bring to donate you will receive one raffle ticket for a chance at winning fun prizes!

Fee: $20/person, plus a minimum donation of one $10+ bottle of wine.

Don't delay - register today!

Women's Winterfest & Holiday Food Tasting Fundraiser

Thursday, November 21 | 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

NEW LARGER LOCATION! LaMalfa, 5783 Heisley Rd, Mentor

Get ready for the ultimate holiday celebration with Women United of United Way of Lake County! This is THE event of the season - a fantastic girls' night out you do not want to miss! Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening packed with excitement that includes mouthwatering food tastings from over 20 local restaurants, incredible basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle, an always popular wine pull, tons of festive "Secret Santa Sack" surprises, mini manicures from the Brown Aveda Institute and more!

TICKETS SELL OUT FAST! Register now for this extraordinary night — all in support of Lake County women, girls, and children in need. Spots fill up fast for our most anticipated fundraiser of the year, so reserve yours today!

Sponsorship Opportunities: Click here for available sponsorships!

Emerging Leaders "4 Under 40" Nominations Being Accepted through October 10th - Nominate Someone Fantastic Today!

United Way of Lake County’s Emerging Leaders "4 Under 40" Awards serve to recognize Lake County’s best and brightest young professionals!

Nominees must fall between the ages of 21-40 during the year ending December 31, 2024, and live or work in Lake County.

Individuals qualify for nomination through outstanding achievement in one or more of the following areas:

Leadership: Nominee should show that he/she can take charge and motivate others within his/her organization or in the community.

Community Involvement: Nominee should provide valuable service by contributing time and energy in service to the community, including but not limited to serving on local boards and/or committees or by volunteering at community events.

Entrepreneurship: Nominee should demonstrate the ability to utilize his/her available resources, knowledge and business relationships to build an organization and create value in Lake County.

Professional Accomplishment: Nominee should demonstrate excellence and show initiative in their company or profession.

Nominate someone exceptional today by clicking here!



Questions? Contact Zach Siebert at zsiebert@uwlc.org or call 440-639-1291.

Two Exciting Raffles: Enter Now for a Chance to Win $10,000 Cash and/or a Lifetime of FREE Monthly Services from Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa (Mentor & Lyndhurst)!

Get Your Raffle Tickets Now!

Our friends at Mentor Nissan and Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa (located in Mentor and Legacy Village in Lyndhurst) believe in our mission and have gifted us with these amazing raffle prizes! All proceeds will benefit Lake County's most vulnerable residents through our Community Impact Fund.

Enter to Win $10,000 Cash Compliments of Mentor Nissan!

AND/OR

Enter to Win One Free Service Per Month FOR LIFE Compliments of Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa!

One lucky winner will receive one free service per month for Life! Services include Hair Cuts & Styling, Formal Styling, Manicures, Pedicures, Facials, Relaxation Massages, and Men's Cuts. The prize is non-transferable. You must be 18 years or older to purchase entries. 

Complete contest rules are available at uwlc.org/salon.

Get your raffle entry tickets here now! 

Small Business United (SBU)

Join the Movement

Small business owners know that a strong, healthy community is good for business. These same owners also understand the importance of giving back and keeping local dollars local, which is where our Small Business United (SBU) membership comes in. All funds raised in Lake County from this membership, stay in Lake County, helping our local friends and neighbors in need. If you are a small business owner interested in a simple, budget-friendly way to give back, then this may be just the program for you!

Learn more about our SBU program now!

GET CONNECTED!

Volunteer Opportunities at UWLC and Other Lake County Nonprofits

Our GET CONNECTED! initiative brings together individuals eager to make a positive impact with those looking for volunteers. If you are an organization in need of volunteers, we would love to include your listing in our online program. Simply send an email expressing your needs to volunteer@uwlc.org and we will get back to you!

If you are an individual looking to make a difference, we urge you to also send an email to volunteer@uwlc.org and we will respond with information on how you can select from a list of online opportunities that align with your interests and schedule!

Learn more about our GET CONNECTED! program here!