Dear Friends,

Current research shows that 65% of US workers are experiencing burnout. Traditionally caused by stress and an unrealistic workload, burnout results in decreased productivity, exhaustion, and withdrawal. According to the report, Burnout Nation, employees who experience burnout have a 180% increased risk of developing depressive disorders and 40% increased risk of high blood pressure which, along with other problems, costs the US Healthcare System upwards of $4.6 billion per year. 

This note isn’t about workplace burnout. It’s about community service burnout. The dynamics around community service burnout are slightly different because “doing good” and “making a difference” are often used as excuses for doing too much and expecting others to do too much. It’s especially common in volunteer leadership roles when there are not enough people who can share the highest responsibilities.   

It’s been about 18 months since I left a service organization after 18 years of membership. At the time of my departure, I was serving on 5 international committees with responsibilities across the Northeastern US and into Canada; several Central PA committees and managing responsibilities local to the Harrisburg area. It was all too much. It took me years to realize that “doing good” and “making a difference” were adversely affecting my family life, my health, and my (paid) professional responsibilities. So, when I began to say no to certain requests, after years of saying yes, it was met with “but we desperately need you,” and “well if you can’t do it, we’ll have to cancel.” The guilt!!! Then there were the times when I would get emails with my name signed up when I had never made the commitment. When I pointed out that I never signed up – I was met with “oh we thought you would be there anyways.” I felt trapped. Eliminating all of my commitments with this organization was the only way out. So that’s what I did. In the beginning, a few people reached out to make sure I was okay. But since my initial resignation, for the most part, crickets.

Dr. Mill Brown stated that “Burnout isn’t a personal failing. It’s a systemic issue that requires organizational change.” So instead of offering advice and best practices for individuals to protect themselves from burnout, here are a few tips for community organizations to prevent burnout, disengagement, and loss of their key volunteers and leaders. First and foremost, value your volunteers. We are people, not assets. 



1. Get to know your volunteer leaders so that you can support them best. It’s often the ones who continually show up with a smile and take on the extra roles and extra work who need the most support. Talk to your volunteers about ALL of their commitments, not just to your organization or one specific project. Understand their personal situation knowing that a retired person with means might have more time to give than someone still in the workforce and, perhaps, with family responsibilities. Support your volunteer leaders with all of the information and resources needed to do their job. Make them look great! Create support systems between current leaders and those who previously held such volunteer roles. Predecessor Pairing – make it a thing!
2. Develop bench strength. Do what you can to bring younger leaders, more leaders into the critical roles for your organization. Succession Planning is as important for volunteers as it is for paid professionals. It’s not fair to “trap” volunteers in a leadership position year after year just because there is no one else to fill the role. Leadership staff and volunteers should work together to identify & groom multiple successors so that the baton can be passed at the right time. Succession Planning is key!
3. Lose the guilt trip! Stuff happens, things come up, and it’s the same for key volunteers as with any paid professional. If a volunteer calls off or can’t make it to a meeting or event, respond with empathy first, listen, maybe even offer to help! In addition, normalize volunteers choosing family over your organization or event. They can’t say yes to everything – even if it’s for a good cause! Make it okay for volunteers to say no without having to offer any reason at all! 
4. If a volunteer does have to step away from your organization, give them grace and support for their transition. People generally don’t want to let a group down. If they are making the tough decision to step away, know it’s not easy for them and keep the focus on the time and service that they gave. Schedule an exit interview with multiple people, not just one, to hear the person out.  Appreciate and celebrate their contributions. Profusely thank them for their service. Stay in touch, check in with them, keep the doors open. 

To all of the organizations with needs and opportunities outlined in The Community Caller, please put some extra care and diligence into onboarding new volunteers and leaders so that your expectations are aligned and burnout can be avoided altogether. Doing good and making a difference are admirable, but shouldn’t be cause for burnout. Community service should be enjoyable, manageable, and meaningful. If it’s not, it’s time to reassess!   

Una Martone

President & CEO

Leadership Harrisburg Area 

Seeking Board Members - Beahive Affordable Housing

🐝 Ready to make a buzz in your community? Beahive is looking for passionate changemakers to join our Board of Directors or serve on committees in marketing, finance, grant writing, or event planning. Help us build something beautiful! Contact Samara Scott, Executive Director:

sscott@beahivehousing.org #MakeYourHiveAHome

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Call for Volunteers: Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association

If you enjoy spending time in the fresh air, making new friends and interacting with people with disabilities and the animals that help them, Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association Inc. (CATRA) in East Hanover Township, near Grantville, is looking for volunteers of all ages to help us with our therapeutic horseback riding lessons and animal care. Since 1985, Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association (CATRA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has provided quality equine and animal-assisted therapeutic programs to the people of the Capital area, including Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill and York counties each week. For more information, please contact Ben Nolt at 717-649-9822 or go to catra.net/volunteer 

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Call for Volunteers: Girls on the Run Mid State PA

It's that time of year again! Our 5K Celebration is back at HACC on Saturday, May 2nd, and we'd love for you to be part of it. If you're looking for a way to give back, that will leave you just as inspired as the girls you're cheering for; this is it. We're looking for volunteers to serve as cheer stations along the course, rallying our girls and their families toward the finish line in a moment that is truly unforgettable. It's powerful, joyful, and confidence-building all at once. Sign up by April 10th, Questions? Contact sarah.fahrney@gotrmidstatepa.org 

(Click the Graphic to Sign Up)

Call for Volunteers - Junior Achievement

JA Volunteers are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Below are the most immediate volunteer needs for schools running JA Programs in March and April.  (Click the Graphic for Details)

To learn more about any of our volunteer-led programs, please see our Volunteer Overview: Volunteer Overview

Call for Volunteers - Kareems Mission

Volunteers Needed! Join us at Kareem’s Mission Autism Center to make a difference for children and families. Flexible hours • Training provided • Impact that lasts a lifetime! Email info@kareemsmission.org

Call for Volunteers - LHM Social Services Foundation

LHM Social Services Foundation is opening its Harrisburg-area Horizons transitional housing program in January 2026! The Horizons program will serve unhoused individuals and families, providing a place to live, meals, and supportive programing in a community setting. Volunteer in the Horizons program with our Beam Teams, serving at reception, with meal service, and more! Visit www.lhm-foundation.org or contact Mel Cronin, Volunteer Coordinator, at mel.cronin@lhm-foundation.org or 717.402.6317, to learn more. Help chart a course toward housing security for those in need!

Seeking Board Members - NAMI Central PA

Are you passionate about mental health? Interested in gaining or growing your experience on a nonprofit board while supporting a mission that changes lives? NAMI Central PA (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is seeking a motivated and mission-driven individual to join our Board of Directors. NAMI Central PA is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness through free education, advocacy, and support programs. We are a grassroots, volunteer-driven organization committed to reducing stigma and promoting mental wellness in our region. We are currently seeking a board member who: Is passionate about mental health and community advocacy, Wants to gain or build on experience serving on a nonprofit board, Has experience in fundraising, donor engagement, or development strategies, Has working knowledge of business financial statements and accounting principles, Is committed to advancing the mission of NAMI through leadership and service, Has a commitment to the community. Contact April Downing:717.233.1164

(adowning@namicentralpa.org) for more information.

Seeking Volunteers - Thrive Center for Independent Living

Volunteers Needed! Help Us Make a Difference. Are you passionate about helping others? We’re looking for dedicated volunteers to support our mission of providing free services to disabled residents in Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry, and Juniata Counties. Your time and talent can uplift lives and strengthen our community. Interested? Contact Jahlysa Garcia at jgarcia@thrivecil.org or call 717-346-0279 to learn more and get involved. Together, we thrive.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Wildheart Ministries Events & Volunteer Opportunities

Love the Hill Wildheart Ministries is seeking individuals for various Volunteering Opportunities. Volunteer as an individual or as a group with an organization. Check out all of their upcoming events & volunteer opportunities.

Volunteering days, Weekly Produce offers from The Hill Farm, as well as their Spring Block Party on April 18th! Check them out and see which opportunity is best for you! (Click the Graphic for Details)

Listed Chronologically by Event Date

Outdoors With the LGBT Center

April 4, 2026 | Keystone Trails Association

Join us OUTdoors! We are proud to be partnering with the Keystone Trails Association to create a hiking group where LGBTQ+ folks can connect, move their bodies, and enjoy nature together in a safe, affirming space. Our first guided hike will take place on Saturday, April 4th. If you're interested in hiking with us on this date or would like to be kept in the loop for future dates, please email Michael at michael@centralpalgbtcenter.org.

Women's Health Panel - TFEC

April 7, 2026 | 4640 E Trindle Road | 9:00 -10:30 AM

Join us for this free event featuring professionals in women’s health as they explore key topics in physical and mental wellbeing. Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with panelists, ask questions, and gain insight on both shared experiences and specific areas of interest.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Carlisle Chamber Career & Job Expo

April 9, 2026 | Carlisle Expo Center | 2:30 - 5:00 PM

Carlisle Chamber invites you to the 2026 Career & Job Expo! This event is free and open to the public with dozens of employers ready to get to know you! There will be free resume services on site, job opportunities from across the Midstate, and open positions for all experience levels.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Young Women Ready 2 LEAD Conference

April 11, 2026 | Harrisburg University | 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM

The AKA Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, Inc. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Epsilon Sigma Omega Chapter are excited to launch Young Women Ready2Lead Conference a leadership and character development initiative for middle and high school girls on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 8: 30 am-2:00 pm at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology located at 326 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA. The conference offers interactive workshops, dynamic discussions, and engagement with accomplished community leaders, speakers, and panelists—providing valuable skills, resources, and networking opportunities to support personal growth and future success. This no-cost conference includes breakfast, lunch, and a Swag Bag filled with inspirational tools and wellness resources, ensuring every participant leaves empowered and equipped to lead. (Click the Graphic to Register)

BOWL For Kids' Sake - Big Brothers Big Sisters

Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA at this year’s Bowl for Kids' Sake event! Gather your friends, family and coworkers for bowling, pizza, drinks, raffle prizes and more! Multiple bowling sessions are taking place throughout March & April.

• April 8 & 15, 2026 | Clearview Lanes, Mount Joy | 4 PM

• April 10, 2026 | Edgewood Bowl, Gettysburg | 6 PM

• April 16, 2026 | Palmyra Bowling | 6 PM 

• April 17, 2026 | Hanover Bowling Centre | 6 PM

• April 23, 2026 | Midway Bowling Center | 6 PM

• ​April 24, 2026 | Colony Park Lanes, York | 6 PM

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Events sponsorships are also available, contact events@bbbsscpa.org for more information. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Plants + Pints 2026

April 12, 2026 | Strawberry Square | 1:00 - 5:00 PM

Join us at Plants + Pints for a unique culinary celebration where every bite and sip directly supports our community! On Sunday, April 12, at Strawberry Square, this food and drink festival is packed with locally-made, plant-forward dishes, craft brews, and specialty vendors. Proceeds from Plants + Pints go to Downtown Daily Bread, a Harrisburg-based soup kitchen and shelter, to provide meals and services to those in need. Last year’s event raised $7,000 for Downtown Daily Bread! Join us this year for the food event that feeds people! Expect Plant-based food and drink: Savor innovative flavors crafted by top local chefs and producers. A vendor Market: Explore plant-themed items, artisan goods, farmers markets, and more from local vendors. As well as community impact: Each ticket supports Downtown Daily Bread’s mission to feed and shelter the Harrisburg community. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Shades of Honey Gala

April 12, 2026 | 109 McCorkel Rd, Hershey, PA | 3:00 - 7:00 PM

Join us for an afternoon of impact, connection, and community as we raise support for safe and affordable housing across our region. 

(Click the Graphic for Details)

First Time Home Buyer Seminar

April 14, 2026 | Members 1st Headquarters | 5:30 - 8:00 PM

Harrisburg Young Professionals invites you to join them for an informative seminar to help you prepare for today’s homebuying market. Whether you’re just starting to explore buying or already actively searching. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages included. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Forster St Cleanup

April 18, 2026 | Forster Street | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Join Us for the 26th Annual Forster Street Cleanup! For more than two decades, HYP volunteers have rolled up their sleeves to make a visible, lasting impact on one of Harrisburg’s busiest gateways — and we’re ready to do it again. On Saturday, April 18, we’re coming together for our 26th Annual Forster Street Cleanup, a tradition that began in 1998 when HYP planted the very first trees in the median. Today, this event continues to be one of our most meaningful opportunities to give back, connect with neighbors, and take pride in the place we call home. This cleanup is open to all community members. All safety and cleanup gear will be provided — just bring comfortable clothes, good energy, and a willingness to make a difference. After the cleanup, we’ll celebrate with an after‑party (location announced soon). Be part of the impact. Register now and help us make Harrisburg a better place to live, work, and play!

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Calling All Organizations: 6th Annual Central PA

Volunteer Fair

April 20, 2026 | Commonwealth Charter Academy | 4 - 6 PM

Attendees / Future Community Volunteers, If you are looking for a perfect opportunity to match your interests, skills & talents with service to a community group, non-profit organization, faith based, or school-based program, please join Leadership Harrisburg Area for the 6th Annual Central PA Volunteer Fair. Up to 75 groups will be hosting informational stations designed to share their needs, hear your interests, and discover potential fits for volunteer roles.

18th Annual GSA Summit

April 21 - 23, 2026 | Dickinson College

GSA Summit will take place this year at Dickinson College April 21-23rd featuring Key Note Speakers: LGBTQ+ Governors Commission Executive Director Ashleigh Strange and State Representative Izzy Smith-Wade El. This year's Summit is going to be memorable. Don't miss out!

(Click the Graphic for Details!)

Susquehanna Nonprofit Summit

April 22, 2026 | Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel | 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Nonprofit professionals and community leaders from South Central Pennsylvania will gather for the Susquehanna Nonprofit Summit, a free, one-day conference focused on connection, collaboration and shared learning to strengthen nonprofit capacity and resilience. The conference will feature keynote speaker Leslie Crutchfield, co-author of Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High-Impact Nonprofits and a nationally recognized expert on nonprofit effectiveness and scaling impact. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Cards With Heart Reception - YWCA Greater Harrisburg

April 22, 2026 | Harrisburg Country Club | 5:30 - 7:30 PM

The YWCA's Cards with Heart program supports our 30-day emergency shelter, providing safe housing for women and children who are homeless or escaping abuse. Residents receive intensive case management and counseling to help remove obstacles to finding a safe, permanent home and sustainable employment. Each year, the YWCA chooses a local female artist to feature on our Cards with Heart. This year, we've chosen Heather Nafe, who generously shared her art for the cards. Cards will be on sale at our Artist Reception on April 22, 2026 at the Harrisburg Country Club from 5:30-7:30. We invite you to come to the reception, meet Heather, learn more about her work and purchase our cards, all benefiting our 30-day emergency shelter. This Spring, honor your mother, teacher, friend, mentor or another important person in your life by purchasing a Card with Heart for just $5. (Click the Graphic for Details)

The Celebration of Harrisburg Luncheon

April 23, 2026 | Hershey Lodge | 11:00 AM

The Salvation Army Harrisburg invites the community to attend The Celebration of Harrisburg Luncheon. This special event will bring together business and community leaders for networking, lunch, Harrisburg giveaways, and a panel discussion highlighting Harrisburg’s rich history and The Salvation Army’s 140 years of service in the region. Featured panelists include David Morrison (Historic Harrisburg Association), Dave Schankweiler (Founder, Journal Multimedia), Toni Lynn Mark (The Salvation Army Harrisburg), and Barbara Barksdale (Local Historian). Networking begins at 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch and the program at 11:30 a.m. Tickets and sponsorships are available.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

A Knight Out - Guest Bartending Teams

April 23, 2026 | Central Penn College | 4:30 - 6:30 PM

You won't want to miss this year's A Knight Out. In addition to great hors d'oeuvres, wine, craft beer, and live music, guest bartenders will be battling for tips. Returning to defend their title are Dr. Michael Verber and Representative Nathan Davidson. This year they are facing a powerhouse team of Jessica Ritchie and Kelly Palmer. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Trivia Night Fundraiser - Communities In Schools

April 23, 2026 | Englewood Hershey | 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Trivia works best when you have a strong team. School does, too. When students face challenges outside the classroom, CISPA rallies a team around them — ensuring they have the stability, encouragement, and resources they need to stay on track. Join us. Compete. Laugh. And help students across Central Pennsylvania stay in the game — all the way to graduation. Teams of up to 10 will compete for cash prizes in a high-energy evening of trivia, connection, and community. Whether you come with a full table or join a team when you arrive, you’ll be part of something bigger. All proceeds from the event support Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania (CISPA), which places caring adults inside local schools to remove barriers to learning and surround students with the support they need to stay in school and succeed.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Friends & Neighbors Premier : Someone To Tell It To

April 23, 2026 | WITF | 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Someone To Tell It To is very proud and honored to be a sponsor of Friends & Neighbors, this beautiful documentary by brothers filmmaker Benjamin Wagner and senior editor Christofer Wagner. There is a deep synergy between Benjamin’s mission of creating art that explores mental and emotional health challenges and Someone To Tell It To’s mission of supporting people in the midst of those challenges (Click the Graphic for Details)

Passport Gala - Vision Resources

April 23, 2026 | Visaggio's Italian Ristorante | 6:00 - 9:00 PM

After 25 incredible years, our signature event is embarking on a brand new journey. Join us for the reimagined Vision Resources Passport Gala, an immersive Italian-inspired evening filled with Regional cuisine, Interactive experiences,  A vibrant market, Silent auction and meaningful moments that support individuals who are blind or visually impaired in Central Pennsylvania.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

14th Annual Great Harrisburg Litter Cleanup

April 25, 2026 | Multiple Harrisburg Locations | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

The Great Harrisburg Litter Cleanup is brought to you by Tri County Community Action, an affiliate organization for Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. Our goal is to come together as a community to make Harrisburg a cleaner and safer place to live. We believe effective and sustainable change starts and ends with the involvement of the entire community, which is why we need your help. Last year, we hosted over 450 volunteers who deposited more than 6 tons of trash and 600 tires. This year, we hope to expand our footprint! This is a great individual or group volunteer opportunity! GHLC T-shirts will once again be available to volunteers until supplies last. Multiple volunteer positions are available at cleanup locations in Allison Hill, Midtown, and Uptown!

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Wetlands Festival

April 25, 2026 | Wildwood Park | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Explore Wildwood Park’s treasured wetlands for our 26th Annual Wetlands Festival! Join us for a day of free, fun, and educational activities with special musical guests and food trucks. Enjoy wildlife exhibits, walks, and a wide variety of local and regional environmental organizations. Interact with live animals and make crafts to take home! There is something for everyone! This festival is rain or shine! (Click the Graphic for Details)

2026 Wildheart Swing For The Hill Golf Outing Fundraiser

May 8, 2026 | Dauphin Highlands Golf Course | 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Our annual Golf Outing is coming up on May 8th at Dauphin Highlands! Registrations are open and we are looking for event sponsors!

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Havana Nights - Pinnacle Health Auxiliary

May 9, 2026 | The Hotel Hershey | 6:00 PM

An evening where rhythm meets purpose—bringing our community together through music, movement, and meaningful impact. Havana Nights is more than a celebration—it’s an experience designed to move you. From vibrant performances and an atmosphere designed to inspire to moments that spotlight compassion in action, this gala blends energy, elegance, and heart. It’s a night rooted in connection, celebration, and purpose. Proceeds from the Havana Nights Gala benefit the Helping Hands Fund, held and managed by the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation. This fund provides immediate, compassionate support to patients across UPMC in Central Pa who are facing urgent financial barriers to care—helping with essentials like transportation, lodging, medications, and other critical needs. Your presence and generosity help lift the burden so patients can focus on healing. (Click the graphic for Details) 

Walk For A Healthy Community - Paxton Ministries

May 16, 2026 | HACC Harrisburg Campus | 7:45 AM

Paxton Ministries is thrilled to invite you to be part of the 2026 Highmark Walk! Each year, our Paxton community comes together to raise essential funds and awareness to support our mission — and we can’t wait to do it again with you. This year, we're aiming to raise $20,000, and we truly hope YOU will join us in reaching that goal. Your past support and enthusiasm have made an incredible difference, and we’re grateful for the energy you bring to this event.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Register Today: 2026 CAAP Summit

May 20 - 21, 2026 | Best Western Premier

Join us in Harrisburg, PA or online for an inspiring gathering of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Our 2026 Summit brings together professionals to explore how technology can simplify our work without compromising the heart behind it. This hybrid event offers opportunities to connect, learn, and share ideas whether you attend in person or virtually as we discover practical tools, sustainable strategies, and leadership approaches that ensure innovation supports, not replaces, human connection while advancing stability and opportunity in our communities. (Click the Graphic for Details)

LHA Graduation & 40th Anniversary Celebration

May 21, 2026 | Penn Harris Hotel | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Please join Leadership Harrisburg Area for a special Graduation Celebration & Champagne Brunch. In addition to recognizing the Community Leadership Series and Executive Leadership Series Classes of 2026 and honoring the recipient of the 2026 Platinum Award for Servant Leadership, this event will highlight special people, milestones, and outcomes across four decades of community service. We invite all of our alumni, program speakers & presenters, organizational partners, sponsors, and founding leaders to reunite at this momentous occasion. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Big Night Out: Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central PA

May 21, 2026 | Hershey Lodge | 5:30 - 9:30 PM

For 45 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA has been working in our region to empower youth to reach their full potential. This milestone celebration is a chance to come together, to share stories, and to recognize our supporters, volunteers, and partners who make our mission possible. The evening will include Youth-Led Entertainment, a Plated Dinner, Auction and Raffle Items, Photobooths, Live Music, And More! Come celebrate the journey - and the future ahead - during an energizing evening of community, inspiration and purpose. (Click the Graphic for Details) 

The Forum on Pennsylvania's Children

May 28, 2026 | Wyndham Garden, York | 8:00 AM - 4:30 pm

If your work supports children and families, it’s not too late to take part in the Forum on Pennsylvania’s Children. This one-day Forum offers space for learning, reflection, and connection across education, healthcare, human services, behavioral health, child welfare, law enforcement, and community leadership. Participants will leave with practical tools, new perspectives, and strengthened relationships to support their work. Registration remains open, and the Forum qualifies for CE credits. Contact Laura Asper: 717-236-8570 (lasper@vocetogether.org) for more information.

(Click the Graphic & title for Details)

Beacon Clinic's Annual Fundraising Gala

May 29, 2026 | West Shore Country Club | 5-8 PM

Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope invites you to mark your calendars for our Annual Fundraising Gala! This year’s theme is Triple Crown – so bring your best Derby spirit with stunning dresses, sharp suits and unforgettable hats! Your support helps Beacon Clinic fulfill its mission to provide free, faith-based primary healthcare to uninsured and underserved adults in the greater Harrisburg region. Sponsorship opportunities are available. contact Beacon Clinic's Fundraising Committee at fundraising@beaconclinicpa.org or 717-775-1111.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Harrisburg Hoopla - TFEC

June 6, 2026 | City Island | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Get ready, Harrisburg. Hoopla is back! Harrisburg Hoopla is a full day of action where friends, coworkers and neighbors team up to take on physical challenges, puzzle games and activities you will not find anywhere else. Each team selects a local nonprofit to represent, allowing them to win money that will be donated directly back to the community. It is competition with a cause, filled with energy, laughter and connection. At the end of the day, your fun creates real impact. A portion of proceeds also supports the Emerging Philanthropists Fund at TFEC, which helps new leaders strengthen Central PA. Sponsorships are now available for companies looking to support Hoopla and connect with players.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Belmont Bourbon Bash - Sip with Purpose

June 6, 2026 | Ironstone Ranch | 4:00 - 8:00 PM

Join us at Ironstone Ranch in Elizabethtown, PA for an unforgettable evening of culinary and bourbon tastings, signature experiences, and great company all set on a stunning 35-acre horse farm. Hosted in support of STAGES Foundation, this event helps provide critical resources, guidance, and advocacy for individuals and families navigating life-changing diagnoses. Enjoy live music by The Moonlighters Band and DJ, games, a 9-hole putting contest, silent auction, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community. Volunteers needed, be part of the impact. Sponsorships and partnerships now open, be part of history. Email: belmontbourbonbash@gmail.com with any questions. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Submit your Nominations: Amani Awards

Nomination Deadline: April 2, 2026

Help us celebrate the extraordinary members of our community at the Amani Festival at the Carlisle Expo on May 2, 2026. We invite you to nominate a deserving individual for the Amani Awards and help us honor those whose impact makes our community stronger. Amani Lifetime Achievement Award: this honoree has uplifted culture, community, and connection, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations. This award celebrates a lifetime of impact rooted in unity, excellence, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. Pillars of the Community/Community Service Award: This award recognizes meaningful contributions that promote culture, compassion, and collective well-being beyond the festival grounds. It celebrates service rooted in generosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community impact. For more information, contact Michelle Palmer at michelletaleen@gmail.com.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Scholarship Program Pilot

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

*must be a registered nonprofit organization to participate in this program

We’re excited to announce the launch of a new Scholarship Program Pilot—an initiative to invest in our community and create opportunity for disadvantaged and underserved students. Made possible through a generous seed gift from Chip and Judy Horst, this pilot program will award scholarships to students facing systemic and financial barriers to education. This program will operate on a partner-nomination model, aimed at providing clients in transitional homes, youth centers, school district foundations, and family support services with support throughout their educational journey. (Click the Graphic to Apply)

Nature Center Classroom Rental: Wildwood Park

Did you know you can rent the indoor Classroom at Wildwood Park? Only 10 mins from downtown Harrisburg, the space is perfect for a variety of events! Consider this space in your 2026 planning for meetings, birthdays, showers etc. The classroom can accommodate a maximum of 60 people.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Operation Cookie - Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania

Operation Cookie connects Girl Scout troops directly with your company’s decision makers. Girls deliver presentations to business leaders, sharing their cookie season goals, what they are working toward, and how they plan to achieve it. With your engagement, they strengthen their leadership, communication, and entrepreneurial skills in a real-world setting. We'll bring a local troop to present to your leadership team to engage with the girls, ask questions, offer feedback, and help them think bigger about what they can accomplish this season. You can support the presenting troop by purchasing cases for employee appreciation, client gifts, community events, or donation. The girls who participate are working toward meaningful, girl-led goals that fund troop experiences, community projects, and skill-building opportunities. When you host a presentation and make a purchase, you directly support Girl Scouts in turning their plans into action. Contact Tiffanie Keck (tkeck@gshpa.org) 717-233-1656 x1205 (Click the Graphic for Details)

Kareem's Mission Supply Drive

Kareem’s Mission is dedicated to empowering individuals with Autism and their families in central Pennsylvania and beyond. By providing comprehensive support, resources, and advocacy, we aim to create a community where everyone impacted by Autism has access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Your donations to our ongoing collection are not merely items but the heart of Kareem's Mission! Fueling the incredible services that uplift children and families in our community, by donation of these essential items you can directly enrich the experiences and nurture the environment. Equipping our children and families with the resources to help them thrive, learn, and grow. Contact info@kareemsmission.org or drop off to Kareem's Mission Bart A Milano Hall, Enola PA 17025, Central Penn College. (Click the graphic for Details)

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Leadership Harrisburg Area is proud to partner with Community Aid. Did you know that we can earn income through your donations? Simply provide LHA’s partner number with your next donation: 50330.

The Community Caller is emailed to over 2700 subscribers on a regular schedule every month. The goal of the publication is to match people and resources with service opportunities and missions & programs that benefit the community. Announcements are placed primarily by non profit organizations, educational institutions, and other community organizations. If you would like to include an event or announcement in the next issue, please feel free to contact LHA with detailed information including:

• Organization Website
• Contact Name, Phone Number and Email
• Date of Event
• Specific Request
• Description
• Attach a flyer of the event, if applicable

Please send submissions to Operations and Program Support Manager, Alexis Jones at ajones@leadershipharrisburg.org or call 717-934-0760. All content is subject to approval by LHA and may be edited for space.

Be sure to ask about sponsorship opportunities for The Community Caller!