Greetings!

A great friend once told me that the only way to improve someone’s life is to create value for them. Thanks, Eric! I’ve taken it to heart and always try to articulate how a particular action on my part, or a LHA event, program or service is going to create value for the other person or participant.

How do you create value for others? How does your organization create value for your constituents and for the community? Professionals in the non profit space often take it for granted that people understand their value proposition and that simply doing good is enough of a story. But it’s not enough! Here are some simple tips for articulating a value proposition. Board members, leaders, volunteers, please take a moment to share the value proposition for the groups you serve! The more voices, the stronger the impact!

• What problem is going to be addressed or solved by your action, event, program or service? Be specific and it might be different for each action, event, program or service.

•How is the organization addressing the problem any differently from other groups? Talk about your differentiators!

•How has your life been improved by the action, event, program or service? Tell your own personal stories.

•What other outcomes, statistics or success stories have been collected. Use that information too!

How is the community better because of the actions, events, programs, or services of the organization? The more specific and succinct you can state your value proposition, the more compelling it will be for your target audience. Make the case, paint the picture, don’t leave it up to the audience to guess – tell us your value!

If you’re not able to respond to one of the opportunities listed throughout the community caller, your advocacy will help! Thank you for your engagement and leadership throughout Central Pennsylvania! 

Take Care,

Una Martone

President & CEO

Leadership Harrisburg Area 

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Listed Chronologically by Event Date

50 Years Forward - Respect Together

April 30, 2025 | Hershey Country Club | 6:00 PM

For five decades, Respect Together has led the way in advocating for the rights of survivors of sexual harassment, abuse, and assault and promoting safe and respectful communities. Now, we invite you to join us to honor Denim Day and Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) by celebrating our 50-year journey and sharing the future of our mission. Commemorate Denim Day: This annual day of action during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) encourages people to wear denim to combat victim-blaming and educate others about sexual violence. (Click the Graphic for Details)

3rd Annual CATRA Kentucky Derby Gala

May 2, 2025 | Hollywood Casino Penn National Race Course| 6 - 10 PM

The Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association (CATRA) is thrilled to announce its 3rd Annual Kentucky Derby Gala, a premier fundraising event set to take place on Friday, May 2, 2025. This exciting celebration will be held at the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, Grantville PA. Guests will enjoy a festive atmosphere featuring dancing, caricatures by Raffi, magic by Kyle Purnell, hors d'oeuvres, buffet dinner, signature Derby cocktails, and live horse racing. The event will also include a live and silent auction, derby hat contest, and opportunities to support CATRA’s mission of providing therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted activities to individuals with special needs.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

The Beat Goes On Adventure Race

May 3, 2025 | Ski Roundtop | 9:00 AM

The Peyton Walker Foundation is hosting its annual “The Beat Goes On Adventure Race” to celebrate Peyton’s love for adventure and to continue life-saving efforts. The 5K Adventure Race features 12 challenges, hills, and a course that will challenge every level of fitness. In addition, a 2K Fun Run with 5 + kid-friendly challenges, will be available for all skill levels and ages. Spectators and volunteers are encouraged to participate as well. There will be a live DJ, Food, Finisher Beer (Juice Box for those under 21), and Fun. Contact Danielle Miller with any event related questions:danelle@peytonwalker.org 717-695-1917

(Click the Graphic For Details)   

Let’s Renew the Adventure – Together!

May 6 - 10, 2025 | 1775 Lambs Gap Road | Various Times

Adventure Park and the Adventure Zone Playground are more than just places to play — they’re cherished spaces built by the community, for the community. For over 15 years, they’ve served as joyful landmarks where friendships were formed, milestones were celebrated, and imaginations soared. Now, it’s time for the next chapter. Our beloved playground is temporarily closed for a much-needed renovation — and we need your help to bring it back to life during the week of May 6th! We’re rallying 1,000 volunteers to join the fun and help with everything from hammering and digging to painting and building. No experience? No problem. If you have the heart to help, we have a spot for you. Let’s build something amazing together! Whether you're wielding a paintbrush, pitching in behind the scenes, or sharing your favorite park memory — thank you for helping us Renew the Adventure! Let's rebuild our amazing playground - together.

Want to support in other ways?

• 💛 Make a financial gift: www.communitycarepoint.org
• 📦 Donate supplies via our Amazon Wishlist: https://a.co/4Jw0h3U
• 📝 Share your park story: Email TJ George, Interim Executive Director, at tgeorge@communitycarepoint.org

(Click the Graphic to Volunteer)

Toast to Mothers & Families: Brunch & Auction

May 8, 2025 | West Shore Country Club | 11 AM - 1 PM

Enjoy a delightful brunch, participate in a lively auction with fantastic items, and hear inspiring stories of resilience and love. This special event is more than just a brunch it is a chance to support the important work that Tri County Community Action does every day. Tickets will be available soon; we’re also seeking sponsors and silent auction donations—any help in spreading the word would be greatly appreciated! (Click the Graphic for Details)

Visions of Monte Carlo : Vision Resources

May 8, 2025 | Manor at Mountain View | 5:30 - 9:00 PM

This year will be the twenty-fifth VMC celebration, marking a quarter-century of fundraising and unforgettable experiences. The evening features an exquisite plated meal, live musical entertainment, and casino-style games for an enjoyable, no-risk, test of skill and luck. There will also be a variety of interesting silent auction items for guests to bid on that evening and, beginning two weeks before the event, bids can be made for online auction items like four Club seats to a Villanova basketball game, or an amazing South African Safari. All net proceeds support the mission of the agency to facilitate independence, enrich the quality of life, and empower individuals who are visually impaired or otherwise disabled through prevention, employment, and educational awareness. The agency’s services extend to Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, and Perry Counties. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Cancer Action Day 2025

May 13, 2025 | Pennsylvania Capital Building | 8:30 AM - 5:00PM

Please join us in Harrisburg at the State Capitol for our annual Cancer Action Day! Together cancer survivors, caregivers and advocates will meet with lawmakers to fight for lifesaving laws. Together, we can change this reality, by working to ensure all Pennsylvanians can access effective prevention, early detection, and treatment. That is what Cancer Action Day is all about.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

2025 CAAP Summit: Navigating Intersections

May 14, 2025 | Best Western Premier | 8:30 AM - 4 PM

Featuring a keynote by Emmy-winning filmmaker, author, and activist Loki Mulholland, along with his mother, civil rights icon Joan Trumpauer Mulholland. Join us for powerful sessions at the intersection of history and possibility—where lessons from the past meet the challenges of today. Whether you attend in person or online, you’ll gain strategies to:



• 🤝 Foster unity across partnerships.
• 🌍 Enhance cultural competency for more inclusive services.
• ❤️ Improve community health outcomes through innovative collaborations.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Leadership Harrisburg Area CLS & ELS Graduation

May 22, 2025 | Penn Harris Hotel | 10:30 AM - 2 PM

A special Graduation Celebration & Champagne Brunch, presented with support from Members 1^st Federal Credit Union, will honor the Community Leadership Series & Executive Leadership Series Class of 2025. 

Please click on the link below for registration and sponsorship information. 

Harrisburg Arts Fest

May 24 & 25, 2025 | Riverfront Park | 10 AM - 7 PM

The 57th annual Artsfest will feature 170+ juried artisans and craftsmen from across the country on May 24-26, 2025 in Riverfront Park, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Hand-crafted works will be available for sale in sixteen different categories, including ceramics, digital, drawing, fiber (decorative and wearable), furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, miscellaneous, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and wood. The festival also features live entertainment, Jazzfest, a community art project, Kidsfest, HBGFest powered by the HBG Flea, 25 food trucks, and more. (Click the Graphic for Details)

NOW SHOWING - T.REX

Whitaker Center | Various Dates & Times

Learn all about the Cretaceous period's best known predator with our newest documentary, T. REX. For over a hundred years dinosaurs have inspired and thrilled audiences, commanding blockbuster status in museums and at the box office. But among them towers a king—a tyrant lizard king. With leaps in CGI wizardry and revelations in tyrannosaur paleontology over the past twenty-five years, the time has come to revisit Rex in the world's prestigious museum cinemas, from rexling to teen to fightin’ prime. Chronicling a remarkable discovery in the badlands of Hell Creek in the summer of 2023, this immersive giant-screen film explores the life and times of the Greatest Of All Tyrants - the GOAT. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Harrisburg Hoopla

June 7, 2025 | City Island | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Emerging Philanthropists Program (EPP) will be hosting the 7th Annual Harrisburg Hoopla on Saturday, June 7, 2025. It will be a full-day event consisting of teams competing in various events such as physical games (individual and teams) and puzzle-type games. Each team will represent a local nonprofit organization of their choice and compete to donate a portion of the event’s proceeds to that nonprofit! A portion of the event’s proceeds will also benefit the Emerging Philanthropist Fund at TFEC. Games will include: Megablox Team Puzzle, Tic Tac Toe Relay, Volleyball, Ski Board Team Race, Dizzy Bat Relay Race, Circle Dodgeball, Pickle, Cornhole.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

1st Annual Juneteenth Parade

June 14, 2025 | Downtown Harrisburg | 12 - 4 PM



For the first time ever, we’re bringing a Juneteenth Parade to the streets of our city — and you’re invited to be a part of history in the making. Presented by The City of Harrisburg, Mayor Wanda R.D. Williams, and Young Professionals of Color (YPOC), this vibrant parade will showcase Black culture, community pride, and resilience in motion. Expect an exciting mix of: Marching bands, Dance teams, Local organizations, Cultural displays, and Community leaders! Want to participate In the Parade? Businesses, and community groups are welcome!

Non-profit FLOATS are FREE ( Email: Juneteenthhbg@ypoc-hbg.org)

(Click the Graphic for Details)

9th Annual Wish Upon a Food Truck Festival

September 20, 2025 | AACA Museum | 10 AM - 4 PM

Join us for the Wish Upon a Food Truck Festival, benefiting Make-A-Wish of Philadelphia, Delaware & Susquehanna Valley! This fun-filled event features delicious food, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities—all while raising funds to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We are also seeking community sponsors, Show your support, gain local visibility, and make a lasting impact by becoming a sponsor today.

Contact wishuponafoodtruck@gmail,com with any event related questions.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Seeking Board Members: Breadcoin PA Capital Region

The Breadcoin Foundation seeks a few service-minded community leaders to serve on a regional board that will help us grow in the PA Capital Region. Breadcoins are community food tokens that: feed hungry neighbors with dignity, bring people together at tables where everyone is welcome, support locally owned restaurants, food trucks and caterers. Regional board members will play a crucial role in fundraising and promoting Breadcoin purchases. Could this be a fit for you? To learn more, please reach out to David Vader, Regional Coordinator for Breadcoin PA (dvader@breadcoin.org, 717-319-8534).

Seeking Board Members - Communities in Schools PA

Communities in schools of Pennsylvania is seeking passionate, community minded individuals to join our board of Directors. If you're commited to educational equity and want to help ensure all students, no matter their zip code; have the support they need to succeed, we want to hear from you. Email jessica@cisofpa.org for information. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Volunteers Needed: Highmark Caring Place

We are looking for volunteers to serve as group facilitators in our peer support groups that run in the evenings several days per week. The Highmark Caring Place is a center to help children, families, and young adults find hope in grief. We provide peer support groups to children and their families who are grieving the death of a loved one. Our support groups are provided at no cost to the families, and insurance is not required. When families meet in their groups, facilitators, family greeters and food servers all work together to welcome the families to the Caring Place. The evenings begin with dinner together in the large community room. This serves as a time of transition from outside to inside the Caring Place. The volunteers sit with the children and adults as they unwind from the stresses of the day and begin to focus on the evening together. After eating, talking, and maybe playing some games, the large groups break into smaller age-specific groups. Two or more group facilitators work together in groups of preschoolers, young children, middle-school-age children, teens or adults. As a team and with the Caring Place staff, the volunteers decide on the activities for the evening, work with the children or adults in implementing these activities and facilitate the group process. Contact Missy Reagan, Volunteer Services Coordinator (717-302-6765) | melissa.reagan@highmark.com for info.

Calling Camp Dragonfly Volunteers - Hospice of Central PA

Calling volunteers! Help make an impact in a grieving child’s life by serving as a Camp Dragonfly “big buddy.” As a big buddy, you will be walking side by side with campers ages 6-15 as they explore their grief feelings, develop coping skills and build self-confidence! Activities range from grief reflection, team building, crafts and games. Camp Dragonfly is from June 6-8 at Camp Hebron. Contact Evelyn Lewis, Volunteer Program Manager, at elewis@hospiceofcentralpa.org to learn more. (Click the Graphic for details)

Volunteers Needed: Catholic Charities Immigration and Refugee Services

Catholic Charities needs patient and flexible volunteers to assist one day a week in our adult English classes for immigrants and refugees in the community. Classes meet virtually on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30-11:30 am or 6:00-8:00 pm. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Training and additional support is provided. Contact Katie Martin-Momose

Phone: 717-329-6139  Email: KMartin@cchbg.org to learn more and get involved! 

Find Toby PA: Seeking Board Members

Find Toby in PA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families. Since 2016, Find Toby in PA, a part of the 501(c)(3) Smart 4 Paws, has reunited over 26,000 lost pets in Central PA and beyond. We are an all-volunteer organization, operating 365 days a year, and we live our mission in everything we do. Unlike shelters or rescues, our focus is on reuniting lost pets, providing critical services to pet owners in need. We are currently seeking passionate and committed individuals to join our Board of Directors

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Girls on the Run Mid State PA 5k: Seeking Event Volunteers

We are looking for volunteers to help at our GOTR 5K held at HACC on Saturday, May 10. Each season comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember! Bring friends and co-workers and host a Cheer Station along the course to cheer the participants and their buddies on!

Contact Sarah Fahrney sarah.fahrney@gotrmidstatepa.org - 717-763-4869 Ext.102 with any event/volunteer related questions.

(Click on the Graphic to Sign Up!)

Seeking Board Members: LGBT Center

The LGBT center is seeking motivated, passionate, and dedicated individuals ready to step into a transformative role by joining their board of directors! You will engage in meaningful conversations and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering a safe, accepting, and flourishing environment for those we serve with a team of highly motivated individuals. The LGBT center seeks to be responsive to the changing needs of our communities in our programming and our strategic priorities. Your expertise and passion are welcomed to the conversation in making our local community an inclusive and supportive place to be! Contact Executive Director Amber Roadcap with any further questions :(717)-991-1375

aroadcap@centralpalgbtcenter.org (Click the Graphic for Details)

Seeking Volunteers: The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum

The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum, a world-class, all-volunteer staffed facility located on 4th Street in Harrisburg, is currently looking for individuals to serve on our finance committee, including a treasurer. A firefighting background is not necessary, but a strong desire to assist a local non-profit is. Our board of directors meets monthly. We are always looking for volunteers to serve in various capacities as well. For more information, please contact Vice President Kevin Gill at keving343@gmail.com. We are open Thursday from 10am to 4pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm, feel free to stop in and check us out!

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Volunteers Needed: Perry County Literacy Council

There is always a need for adult tutors, help us empower our Perry County neighbors through education! PCLC is in need of Volunteer GED Tutors and Volunteer ESL instructors. No college degree is required for GED tutors—only a high school diploma or equivalency. PCLC will provide the training. All we ask is about three hours per week of your time. Contact Executive Director:

Leslie Heimbaugh with any questions - literacy@pa.net | 717- 567- 7323

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Seeking Board Members : Peyton Walker Foundation

The Peyton Walker Foundation, established to combat the prevalence of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), is looking to expand its Board of Directors by adding a Secretary. Since our inception, we've been dedicated to checking hearts, protecting hearts, and saving lives through heart screening programs, education, getting AEDs in the community, training CPR/AED, and advocacy. Our meetings are held quarterly in person in Enola for approximately two hours, with further coordination via email or quick online meetings. The ideal candidate should be deeply committed to our cause, skilled in taking notes, and familiar with Robert's Rules of Order. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in heart health and wish to contribute to our mission, please reach out to the Executive Director, Nicole McCartan, at nicole@peytonwalker.org.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Join the Pinnacle Health Auxiliary Board!

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you want to be part of a dynamic team supporting life-changing healthcare programs and initiatives? The Pinnacle Health Auxiliary Board is looking for enthusiastic women and men of all ages to join us in promoting health and wellness in our community. We have exciting opportunities for you to bring your skills and ideas to the table, including open positions for Assistant Treasurer and Parliamentarian and others. Whether you love numbers, enjoy organizing, or want to be part of meaningful fundraising efforts, there’s a place for you on our Board and many committees!

Why Join Us?

·Make an Impact: Help raise funds for critical healthcare needs like hospital-grade baby bassinets and mobile health units.

·Develop Leadership Skills: Gain hands-on experience in community leadership, event planning, and board governance.

·Foster Connections: Be part of a welcoming group dedicated to improving lives while forming lifelong friendships.

·Leave a Legacy: Your efforts will directly contribute to a healthier, stronger Central PA.

We are looking for ... A passion for service and community engagement,

A commitment to supporting UPMC Pinnacle’s mission to promote health and welfare in Central PA. No prior board experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and fresh perspective! Our board meets monthly, and we work together to make a tangible difference. If you’re ready to join a fun, purpose-driven team, we’d love to hear from you!

Email us at pn_auxiliary@upmc.edu or call 717-231-8080 for more information about joining the Pinnacle Health Auxiliary Board.

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Seeking Board Members: Vista Autism Services

Vista Autism Services is seeking dedicated leaders to join our Board of Directors and help shape the future of our organization. At Vista, our mission is to advance and innovate, to improve lives, and to inspire hope. Since our founding in 2002, we have grown from serving four children in a single room to impacting hundreds of lives annually across Central Pennsylvania. From early intervention to adult services, our programs are designed to empower individuals to achieve their unique potential and to build inclusive communities that value their contributions. Serving on Vista’s board is a meaningful way to give back and to work alongside a diverse and passionate group of leaders, including professionals, parents of individuals with autism, and advocates, each bringing unique perspectives and skills. Together, we can continue building a future where every individual we serve has the resources, support, and opportunities to thrive. Please contact Nzenalu “Nze” Obinelo, CEO at nzenalu.obinelo@vistaautismservices.org or call 717-583-5102, X2008, if you are interested in learning more about Vista’s Board of Directors.

Wildheart Ministries - Love The Hill Volunteer Days

Looking for ways to #lovethehill alongside Wildheart? Join us during our volunteer days! (Click the graphic for Details)

More...

Grant Cycle II Closes May 1

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) is currently accepting applications for Grant Cycle II—but the deadline is quickly approaching. All applications must be submitted by Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. If you or your organization plan to apply, we encourage you to begin or finalize your application as soon as possible. Unfortunately, late submissions won't be accepted. Below is a full list of available grant opportunities. Eligibility requirements, guidelines and application links are also available on our Grants Overview page. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Arts for All

Programs designed to integrate cultural appreciation in the everyday lives of underserved audiences; most interested in proposals that will increase access to the arts.

Franklin County Community Foundation

Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education, Environment and Health & Human Services 

Gail Deimler Charitable Fund

Healthcare issues and hospice services in the Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, Franklin, Lebanon and Northern York Counties.

Mechanicsburg Area Community Foundation

Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education, Environment and Health & Human Services.

The Palmer Family Foundation Fund

Arts, Culture, Community Engagement and Creative Expression.

The Fund for Women & Girls

Basic Needs & Economic Self-Sufficiency, Health & Safety, Education, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Systems & Sustainable Change.

Cradle to Career Alliance

Wondering where the future workforce is coming from? Get engaged with the Cradle to Career Alliance, and join the more than 200 business/industry, school, community, government and training/post-secondary education members who are supporting Career Awareness & Preparation (CAP) through the collective impact of this group. Monthly session rotate focus between planning, professional development, and networking. Successes include the development and support of Career Recognition Weeks – a framework to celebrate all careers throughout the school year. There is no cost to participate in the Alliance. Membership is currently limited to those located in and/or serving in South Central PA. (Click the Graphic for Details)

Community Leadership Series Class of 2026 Forming Now!

Leadership Harrisburg Area is convening the next Community Leadership Series and invites applications from individuals who wish to learn, lead, serve, and leverage an amazing community of servant leaders to make a difference in the Capital Region!  Apply Below!

Application Deadline: June 6, 2025

T.E.A.M. Project Applications Available Now

Leadership Harrisburg Area is now accepting applications for T.E.A.M. Project Partners for the 2025/26 Program Year. If you are with a non profit organization or community group that could use professional expertise, third-party insights, and the extra hands and hearts to accomplish critical goals & objectives, we’re here for you! T.E.A.M. Projects include groups of 5-7 participants in LHA’s Community Leadership Series who volunteer with your organization working towards an agreed upon outcome for approximately 8 months. 

Application Deadline: June 27, 2025

Shalom House: Adopt - A - Room Program

Shalom House is committed to emergency sheltering for homeless women and children, transitional housing for homeless women veterans and their children, and permanent housing for disabled, chronically homeless low-income women. Shalom House provides temporary shelter for women and children who have nowhere else to go. By sponsoring one of our 10 resident rooms or a common area, you’ll help provide the comforts of home to women and their children during their most challenging times. Your support ensures that each space remains welcoming, safe, and comfortable. Contact Executive Director:

Tymia Green with any questions tgreen@shalomhouse.net | 717-920-4906

(Click the Graphic for Details)

Now Booking: Sprocket Mural Tours

If you’re like us, you’re excited about the warm weather because it brings the return of mural tour season! With THREE completely separate mural tours available for you to take:

·The Midtown Tour: Features works like “Arise” by Ryan Spahr, “Three-Eyed Doe” by Tristan Bond, and “Eye” by Nick Napoletano.

·The SoMa Tour: Features works like “Melt” by Dizz Gavins, “Beak and Bloom” by Emily Matusz, and “Coexist” by Marka 27.

·The York Tour: Features works like “Perennial Bloom” by Robert Homan, “Luna Nueva” by Pau Quintanajornet and “Sardines” by Bailey Sullivan.

It’s your chance to learn the lore behind your favorite pieces.

We're putting a 20-person cap in place for ALL tour groups this year – so book your spots before they sell out! (Click the Graphic for Details)

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!