Named in honor of Douglas C. Dickey, a past LCUW president  lost in the crash of TWA Flight 800, the award is presented to an individual  whose dedication, commitment, and outstanding leadership have made a significant  contribution to the welfare of Lycoming County. The award was first presented  in 1947 as the Lycoming United Way Award and renamed in 1997 to honor Dickey’s
memory and contributions to the local United Way.

O’Connell becomes the 67^th honoree so selected  over the years.

“The selection committee for this award is comprised of  individuals who themselves have been past recipients of the award,” explained  Scott N. Lowery, LCUW executive director. “These volunteers are in the best position to understand the importance of this award to our United Way and have  previously exhibited the credentials necessary to achieve the honor. Tom has been  very generous to both the community and our United Way; the committee was quick  to agree he deserves the special recognition.”

“Tom has a great deal of experience and a long career in  banking, trust and investments with local banks including Citizens &  Northern, M&T Bank, Keystone Financial, and Northern Central Bank,” explained  Lowery.

O’Connell is a CFP member of the Financial Planners Association and serves on the board of the Northern Central PA Estate Planners  Association.

“His service to the community is as extensive as his 40 year  career in banking. He is currently on the LCUW board of directors and serves as chair of funds distribution. He volunteers with St. Boniface and has served as an usher with the Little League World Series for 20 years,” added Lowery. “It  is no coincidence that many of the recent progressive changes implemented within our organization were fulfilled under Tom’s leadership. He has a genuine concern for others and a management style conducive to positive action.”

“I choose to be active with and supportive of LCUW because  of the agency’s integrity and accountability,” explained O’Connell. “LCUW  volunteers have a broad-based, positive impact on the county-wide community and  play a key role in delivering funds to agencies that service those in need.”

O’Connell has also served on the boards of Williamsport  Symphony Orchestra, Williamsport/Lycoming Arts Council, and the Community Arts  Center.

“The ranks of the past recipients of the Dickey Award are  filled with the names of truly community-minded volunteers who have gone way beyond the normal call of duty to help others and move our organization  forward. Tom’s inclusion among them is well-deserved and highly earned,”  concluded Lowery.

O’Connell attended Pierce College and Widener University, is  a graduate of Leadership Lycoming and is a Certified Financial Planner.  O’Connell and his wife Gloria live in Williamsport
and they have two daughters and three grandchildren.

O’Connell will receive the Dickey Award from George Tsunis, founder,  chairman, and CEO of Chartwell Hotels, the 2011 LCUW honoree.

“Several workplace campaigns and a number of corporate contributions are still in the process of completing their campaigns but based upon their past support we expect this year’s campaign to achieve $1,612,125 once those contributions are received, said Virgil Probasco 2012 LCUW campaign chair. “There are so many volunteers who have worked very hard to attain this remarkable achievement. While it is impossible to personally thank every one of them, they certainly have my since gratitude for what they have helped us achieve.”

“The heightened awareness and compassion of our donors, both individual and corporate, for the county-wide critical missions of United Way’s program partners drove the success of this campaign,
making it the highest amount raised in the organization’s 90-year history,” said Probasco. “The people of Lycoming County understand the growing needs of the human service programs and trust United Way to be a good steward of their investments. We are very pleased with these results and we want to thank each and every donor who participated in the campaign.”

This year, United Way provided funding for 44 programs at 28 agencies in Lycoming County that meet the community’s most critical needs nurturing children, caring for people in crisis, strengthening families, supporting seniors, and serving those with special needs. LCUW officials point out that 97% of funds raised stay in Lycoming County.

“This opportunity to serve as campaign chair has been a humbling, yet rewarding experience. We are indebted to the hundreds of volunteers who gave of their time and talents to assist us; and to the thousands who contributed to the campaign. Their efforts and support will truly make a positive difference in the lives of their neighbors throughout the county,” added Probasco.

“With each year’s campaign, new stories reflecting the generosity and caring spirit of Lycoming County residents are exhibited. This year, in the face of some difficult times, that heart-warming compassion reached new levels,” said LCUW executive director Scott N. Lowery. “This campaign’s achievement exceeded the amount raised in any previous campaign. That is a remarkable effort that would not have been possible without Virgil’s leadership and the tremendous effort of our volunteer network.”

While the amount raised is the largest amount in the organization’s history, LCUW officials point out it is likely still not enough to meet the needs of the programs partner’s requests.

“Last year we looked at the amount we had to allocate to our partners and the amount they had requested. The amount we needed to be able to fulfill their requests was $1,723,311 and while we are pleased to have had a campaign increase of about 6% over last year, we will likely still not have enough to meet every program’s request,” explained Lowery. “All programs that receive LCUW funding must demonstrate measureable results. Our volunteers are very thoughtful in how the dollars are allocated. They meet with every program partner to learn about the programs and ensure that the money is invested addressing the most pressing community needs through proven programs. It is never a simple process and we appreciate the volunteers’ efforts in making difficult decisions this spring.”

“Plus, our United Way mission extends beyond the needs of our program partners. Recent community needs assessment surveys have identified areas of concern that we are addressing though our Impact Funding Initiative,” added Lowery.

“When Virgil Probasco announced to our board that Lycoming County United Way raised $1,612,125, there was a sense of both great accomplishment as well as immense
relief. That’s because our campaign raised a record amount to help our neighbors,” stated Mary Wolf, LCUW board president. “This positive campaign outcome speaks volumes about the character of Lycoming County residents. This is the mission of the United Way; neighbor helping neighbor and in doing so raising the quality of life for everyone.”

 “I don’t have the appropriate words to thank Virgil Probasco for the tenacity and spirit with which he led the campaign volunteers to this year’s success. He and his team of volunteers did an amazing job,” concluded Wolf. “Our board is fortunate to have these dedicated folks. So now for the second year in a row we have exceeded our all time campaign achievements thanks to these volunteers as well as the many, many donors. This is a trend we want to keep going.” 

To make a contribution, for more information, or to volunteer for funds distribution, contact Lycoming County United Way, One West Third Street, Suite 208; Williamsport, PA 17701,  call
323-9448, visit www.lcuw.org or look for the organization on Facebook .

Virgil Probasco calls it the “code of the West.”

“You always take care of your own,” said Probasco, a native of Wyoming and a nominee for Williamsport Sun-Gazette Person of the Year for stepping forward two consecutive years to take the chairmanship of the Lycoming County United Way’s annual fundraising campaigns.

“I feel honored,” said Probasco of the newspaper’s recognition for his twice agreeing to chair campaign drives – last year’s netting $1.5 million, the most money ever raised in the 90-year history of the local chapter, according to Scott N. Lowery, agency executive director.

Probasco, who recently retired as executive vice president of Williamsport Wirerope Works Inc., wore a jet-black cowboy hat to the interview and spoke in soft tones about the code he was taught in the communities of Wyoming that also applies to Lycoming County.

“You were exposed to a community that would take care of those in need,” he said.

So this year, it was just natural for Probasco, when his colleague’s wife became fatally ill, to step in and serve as chairman for a second consecutive campaign.

Others involved in the charitable organization attested to Probasco’s business sense as well as his demeanor throughout the years, first as campaign vice chairman and then as chairman.

“Virgil is Virgil … he’s never been full of himself … he’s an old cowboy from Wyoming,” Lowery said.

Probasco joined United Way’s volunteer leadership after Lowery and Jim Campbell, former campaign chairman, searched for a vice chairman with leadership skills and business accumen.

“I immediately could tell he was a man of character,” Lowery said after he met Probasco for a burger.

“A lot of people say they’ll be chairman for one year, but Probasco volunteered twice,” said Kate Pacacha, director of resource development and communications for the Lycoming County United Way.

“Virgil always provides the right balance to motivate us, be our cheerleader and help us to work together,” she said.

“He also gets his point across in a manner that is conversational,” Lowery said. “He talks to you in a tone that makes sense.”

Lowery didn’t deny Probasco’s business prowess and leadership qualities can be measured by what he helped to obtain from the generosity of the employees contributing at Williamsport Wire Rope Works. It’s a corporate contribution that has steadily increased over the years, beginning at the $5,000 level to what it is today, $35,000.

“He leads by example,” Lowery said.

Pacacha said it was the kind of leadership Probasco was recognized for by the Marine Corps when he was presented with a commendation for his service in the branch of the military by Gen. James E. Amos, commandant of the Marines.

Probasco’s eyes lit up, but he didn’t say a word when Pacacha brought up the ceremony acknowledged by the United Way.

“He’s being humble,” she said.

Probasco gives credence to the fellow United Way volunteers and the staff.

“When you have a staff and volunteers like this, you have a leg up,” he said. “Scott leads the group naturally and their ability to work with you makes it easy.”

Probasco said it requires some leadership skills to be United Way campaign chairman, but he added if someone is dedicated to the whole concept and gets behind the idea to “help our neighbors,” it “flows in the right direction.”

“United Way works because 97 percent of what is raised through individual and corporate donations stays in the local community,” Probasco said. “An estimated 84 cents on every dollar spent goes directly to the agencies United Way supports.”

“Contributions have picked up in the last few weeks,” said Virgil Probasco, LCUW volunteer chair of the 2012 campaign. “It is heartwarming to see our friends and neighbors donate to United Way to help one another. Their generosity is showing through each week as the campaign progresses and grows.”

“The upswing in contributions is encouraging but to raise what is needed to properly address the human service programs we support throughout the year we are still $670,000 short of our goal,” Probasco added. “The people of Lycoming County understand that there are critical needs for quality human service programs and they trust United Way to invest their gifts wisely in proven programs that are meeting the most pressing needs right here in our community. We thank those who have already given and ask those who have not donated yet to do so now.”

97% of funds raised stay here in Lycoming County and are used to help support 44 vital human service programs throughout Lycoming County. In the past year, 46,379 county residents have been helped by an LCUW-funded program.

“We have been especially pleased with many of the employee workplace results we have seen the last few weeks,” explained Probasco. “The majority of our gifts come through workplace giving and as local companies complete their in-house campaigns, many are reporting increased giving over last year. For example, employee giving at AutoTrakk is up 17%, Kellogg’s 23%, and The Tech Group 62% to name a few .”

In addition, individual leadership giving has shown positive increases this year, according to Probasco.

“Not only are more people giving, but many of the donors that have participated in the past are increasing their gifts over last year,” said Probasco. “We’re thrilled to see our Tocqueville Society grow this year thanks to several members increasing their gifts. It makes me proud to be a part of our community and a part of our United Way to see such compassion for others in Lycoming County.”

“LCUW has a solid network of dedicated and experienced volunteers who are working diligently on this campaign. We are extremely grateful for their time and the enthusiasm they are showing towards this campaign. We all believe in these programs and we are working hard to raise the funds to help meet their needs. Every dollar we raise helps,” added LCUW executive director Scott N. Lowery.

Probasco and Lowery remind donors that while contributions are welcomed throughout the year, individuals who have not yet contributed are encouraged to make their donation now.

“We hope you’ll consider the community impact of Lycoming County United Way in your year-end, tax-deductible charitable giving plans. Last year, one in three of our neighbors used a program funded by United Way.  We appreciate your consideration and hope you and yours have a joyous holiday season,” Probasco concluded.

To make a contribution or for more information, contact Lycoming County United Way, One West Third Street, Suite 208, Williamsport, PA 17701, call 570-323-9448, or visit www.lcuw.org.

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“We still have a lot of work to do to close that gap and accomplish our mission. Recent history has shown that December has been a very positive month so we are optimistic that we will have a strong stretch the next few weeks to reach what is needed,” said Virgil Probasco, the 2012 volunteer campaign chair.

“Each campaign is unique to itself, but when we compare where we were last November 30 to where we are this year we are actually about $14,000 ahead of 2011. The devastation caused last year by the floods slowed the early campaign results but in some ways it heightened the awareness of the importance of helping others. That translated into some positive results for our campaign. This year we are experiencing a slight decline in some areas due to gifts that are being directed to the victims of Hurricane Sandy.”

Many of the larger workplace campaigns throughout Lycoming County have yet to complete their in-house employee campaigns. With nearly 60% of campaign gifts coming from the workplace, the achievements of these campaigns will have a significant impact on the success of the overall campaign results.

“We greatly appreciate the support we annually receive from workplace campaigns. The timing as to when business choose to run their campaign greatly varies. In recent years we have received results later than was the case five or ten years ago. Consequently we have now found that it will be late January or early February until the results are known. It used to be we could report this information prior to Christmas,” explained Scott N. Lowery, LCUW executive director.

Ron Frick, the campaign’s chair of leadership giving, indicates individual donors comprising the Peter Herdic and Tocqueville Society levels have shown steady increases in contributions. “Many of our donors contributing above the $500 level have increased their contributions this year. Their support, trust and confidence is vitally important to allow us to help so many others. Those wishing to make
year-end contributions can be assured their gift will be put to very good use right in our local community,” Frick stressed.

Those wishing to contribute to this year’s United Way campaign may do so by contacting the LCUW office at One West Third Street, Suite 208; Williamsport, PA 17701; by calling the office at 323-9448 or visiting  the organization’s website at www.lcuw.org.

The event is being organized by United Way volunteer, Diane Stine and sponsored by Range Resources.

“This is our fifth year and we’re excited to make it better each year. In addition to all of the baskets being filled with extra prizes and gift certificates donated by local businesses and friends of United Way, we’ve increased the super bingo game this year to be even bigger,” said Stine. “Super Bingo is one game with one winner of more than $1,000 in Longaberger products and everything for a great outdoor patio.  From the gas grill to the fire pit; we have it all and you will want to win.”

Bingo players can win prizes, manufactured in the U.S.A by the Longaberger Company, and enjoy an afternoon out with friends and family for refreshments, door prizes, a Chinese auction, and other games of chance.

“It is a fun way to support a great cause,” added Stine.

Advance tickets are available for a $20 donation at the United Way office at One West Third Street, Suite 208, Williamsport or by calling 570-323-9448.  Tickets at the door the day of the event are $25.00.

There will be 20 regular games included with the ticket purchase. There will also be five special games and the Super Bingo, available the day of the event. Doors open at 12:00 noon with an
Early Bird Special Game at 12:45pm

“I enjoy helping United Way because it supports many essential human service programs in the county. Some of them could not operate without funding from United Way. Helping multiple programs
with one special event is a fun way to do something good for our neighbors, and a great way for me to give back to the community,” explained Stine.

The kitchen at basket bingo is run by volunteer Sherry Paulhamus, office manager for Range Resources.

“We’ll have hamburger barbecue, hot dogs, home-made baked goods and all kinds of goodies to snack on while they play bingo,” Paulhamus said. “I’ve helped in the kitchen for several years and
I’m always happy to support United Way because the programs funded help so many
of our neighbors here in Lycoming County.”

This fundraiser is in no way connected with or sponsored by the Longaberger Company.

Lycoming County United Way mobilizes resources to improve lives by funding 38 human service programs based on community need and program outcomes. For more information on Lycoming County United Way or Basket Bingo, call 570-323-9448.

“We have been optimistic throughout the early planning process and the beginning weeks of the campaign,” said Virgil Probasco, LCUW volunteer 2012 campaign chair. “We’re happy to be making progress and seeing the donation totals increase week to week. We are genuinely pleased to see the people of Lycoming County supporting one another and giving a helping hand to
those in need.”

The majority of campaign contributions come through workplace giving and several local companies have reported increased support of United Way.

The biggest employee campaign in the county is held by Kellogg Company in Muncy. The bakery there produces Pop-Tarts, Nutrigrain bars, and extremely generous employees.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have $85,718 contributed by our team members this year,” reported Kellogg plant manager Tim Bair. “We had 75% of our employees participate in the United Way campaign and we couldn’t be more proud of their compassion for our community. We also did some special fundraisers and our corporate office matches the employee giving so we were able to give United Way a total of $180,500!”

“The employees at Kellogg have a very significant impact on our campaign and ability to fund human service programs and we are extremely appreciative of their kindness,” said Dr. William Martin, senior vice-president of Pennsylvania College of Technology and LCUW volunteer vice-chair of the campaign.

Earlier this week, Kellogg celebrated Tony the Tiger’s 60^th birthday and invited the LCUW team to the Muncy bakery for cake and a check presentation.

“It is exciting to see the passion and enthusiasm the Kellogg team has for supporting our community,” added Martin.

Other  companies reporting positive employee campaigns this week included Macy’s, where two-third of the employees participated in campaign and giving increased 19% over last year. The Tech Group in Williamsport has reported a 38% increase in giving.

“We are grateful for the support of so many local businesses hosting campaigns with their employees. When people can donate a few dollars per paycheck through payroll deduction, it is more convenient for them and that increases participation,” said Probasco.

“We are continuing to ask for every citizen’s consideration to do what they can to contribute to this critical campaign,” explained Probasco. “Although we gladly accept donations any day of the year, our primary focus is September through November so that we can accurately allocate funds to our programs next spring. We want to thank those who have already contributed and encourage those who have not yet done so to make their donations by the end of November.”

“There are more people in need of human service programs this year as well as increasing costs to operate the programs and less government funding. We’re very appreciative of the support our community is providing for our neighbors and we will remain diligent in our efforts to raise the funds so vital to keep 38 local human service programs functioning for Lycoming County residents,”
concluded Martin.

This year’s campaign runs through November 30. To make a contribution or for more information, contact Lycoming County United Way, One West Third Street, Suite 208, Williamsport, PA 17701, call 570-323-9448, or visit www.lcuw.org.

“We have seen steady growth these first few weeks and have received a second progress report of $183,826 pledged so far,” said LCUW volunteer campaign chair Virgil Probasco.

“These first-in results have largely been generated from the mailings to our leadership and residential donors. The larger employee workplace campaigns are for the most part just getting started. Our volunteers have seen some encouraging signs and several workplace locations have reported their campaigns are running ahead of last year’s pace.”

According to LCUW, many of those workplace campaigns host staff meetings and invite speakers to tell the employees what United Way does in the community.

“We always appreciate the opportunity to speak in person to people because there are generally some in the group who did not know much about United Way,” explained Probasco. “When they learn how many programs we fund – 38 this year, and how many people we help – about 1 in 3 people in the county; the message really hits home.”

Workplaces that have not scheduled a speaker from United Way are encouraged to do so by contacting the office at 323-9448 or their assigned volunteer.

“We love to bring in someone to speak whose life has changed because they participated in or utilized a program that is funded by United Way. There are literally thousands of powerful, moving stories to be told by our neighbors here in Lycoming County.”

In addition to the weekly Face Stories series in the Sunday editions of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, people can log on to lcuw.org and click on the ‘video’ tab to learn more about the real people affected by United Way-funded programs.

“This community is a very generous one,” concluded Probasco. “We understand the importance of taking care of one another. Seeing and hearing these stories reaffirm our compassion for one another. When given the opportunity, please take a few minutes to listen to a speaker, request one if your company doesn’t have it scheduled, and watch the videos online to see how your donation would make a difference.”

Proceeds from the United Way campaign help support 38 vital human service programs county wide. Last year these services were used more than 46,000 times by county residents.

This year’s campaign runs through November 30. To make a contribution or for more information, visit lcuw.org or contact Lycoming County United Way, One West Third Street, Suite 208,
Williamsport, PA 17701, or call 570-323-9448. LCUW is also on Facebook.