THESE FIVE FACTS SHOW HOW BADLY INFLATION IS HURTING SMALL BUSINESS
This quarter, the MetLife and U.S. Chamber Small Business Index found that small businesses’ concern about inflation has reached the highest level since Q3 of last year. Here are five data points from this quarter’s report that show how inflation is hurting small business owners.
1. Inflation is the top challenge facing the small business community
Half (50%) of small businesses now say inflation is the top challenge facing the small business community. This marks the fifth consecutive quarter of increasing concern over inflation and represents a dramatic 31-point increase since this time last year (when only 19% said inflation was a top challenge).
Inflation is the top concern for small businesses regardless of their location, number of employees, or sector.
2. Most believe inflation will get worse
According to the report, most small businesses anticipate inflation will get worse. Seven in ten (71%) believe the worst is still to come with regards to inflation.Karen Olson Beenken, president and CEO of Blue Rock Companies, in Sidney, Montana, says she finds inflation everywhere she turns.
“Payroll is up because we have to pay more to retain and attract employees,” Beenken says. “The cost of fuel is up. The cost of freight is up significantly—and it’s gotten more and more difficult for us to get freight companies to come to our rural markets as frequently as they used to. Our health insurance was up this year. Those are all big cost inputs, and they are all up significantly. These are very challenging times for our business.”
3. Higher costs for goods/supplies hurting the most
The cost of goods and fuel/utility bills are where small businesses most often report feeling inflation. Among small business owners that say rising prices have had a significant impact on their business (83% of respondents), most cite the cost of goods and supplies (65%) and utilities or fuel (50%) as where they have seen the most impact. 
4. Small businesses forced to raise their prices
To keep up with inflation, many small businesses report having to raise the prices they charge customers.
“Our suppliers have passed on expenses to us, and we held on as long as we could before passing them along to our clients,” says Julianne Weiner, COO of Sonic Promos in Gaithersburg, Maryland. “Logistics [shipping and fulfillment] seem to be absorbing the worst. Though with gas prices back in the more normal range, maybe that will decrease a bit, too.”
To cope with inflation, 7 in 10 small businesses report raising prices in response to inflationary pressures, followed by those who say they have taken out a loan (40%), reduced staff (37%), or reduced the quality of their products or services (31%).
Tom Richter, principal owner of JAN-PRO of Utah based in Midvale, Utah says he’s also had to raise prices.
“Inflation has impacted our business in many ways,” Richter says. “Gas increases have required us to increase prices across the board to customers. Raw material increases have impacted chemicals and equipment used in our business. Our franchise owners have had to increase their wages to their employees doing the daily work.”
5. Most say combatting inflation should be top policy priority
When asked to choose, more small businesses said fighting inflation should be the priority over avoiding another economic downturn.
Over half (59%) of small businesses believe the priority right now should be reducing inflation and 41% would prioritize avoiding an economic downturn.
However, interest rate hikes aren’t a negligible concern. Forty percent of small businesses say they are very concerned about the impact of interest rates rising on their business (up 11 percentage points from Q1 2022).
The big picture
Amid concern around inflation, the Small Business Index score dropped this quarter to 62.1, down from 66.8 last quarter. This is the largest drop in the Index since the start of the pandemic and the drop comes from small businesses saying they are now less confident in both the national economy and their current cash flow.
The Q3 2022 survey was conducted between July 21 - August 8, 2022. For more findings from this quarter,and to explore and browse years of small business data, see our full SBI Index.
About the author:
Thaddeus Swanek
Senior Writer and Editor, Strategic Communications, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Member News – September 28, 2022
Press Enterprise Announces 2022 Fair Food Favorites Contest
Wild for Salmon Shares Fair-Style Salmon Mac & Cheese Recipe
Inspired by their trips to the Bloomsburg Fair, you're going to want to put this in your recipe book.
The Bloomsburg Public Library Strategic Planning Survey
The library needs your help completing a strategic planning survey.
Bloomsburg River Trail’s New Construction Plan
The Bloomsburg River Trail will connect Bloomsburg via dedicated pedestrian and bike paths, which will improve residents' access and usability of town assets. See the plan.
Cybersecurity: What the Nonprofit Executive Needs to Know
On September 29, McKonly & Asbury will discuss ways to mitigate and reduce risk specific to nonprofits susceptible to cyber-attack. Register here.
Empowering Educators Grant Applications Due Sept. 30
Offered by the PPL Foundation, these grants are designed to support and encourage teachers in providing hands-on learning experiences in the areas of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.). Read more here.
First Commonwealth Bank Named Top Workplace
Congratulations to the First Commonwealth Bank, so honored by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Read More.
We Know Them! Congratulations to The Duane Family!
Chamber Ambassador Lauren Duane and family with Ben
Congratulations to Chamber Ambassador Lauren Duane (and family), who recently connected with Chamber member Cats in Bloom!
Design Group Welcomes New Hire
Joseph, Design Group's Newest Hire!
Congratulations to Design Group, who this week welcomed Joseph as the the new Manufacturing and Distribution Director in their Berwick Main Plant.
Bucknell, Wilkes Universities' Small Business Development Centers Offer Fall Programs
As the SBDC serving Montour County, Bucknell’s free educational workshops in October feature marketing & story telling, leadership, and work culture programs. Check them out here. As the SBDC serving Columbia County, Wilkes University is offering “The First Step Express”, a webinar to maximize the success rate of new businesses and entrepreneurs. Sign up here.
B.I.D.A. To Celebrate 60 Years
Highlighting its history, B.I.D.A (formed in 1962) will be working with the Press Enterprise to publish a special edition publication later this year. Congrats on your anniversary!
PA State Representative Offers Farewell Remarks
Representative David Millard, who will retire at the end of this legislative session, shared a farewell speech in the House chamber late last week. See his remarks here. On behalf of the Chamber, thank you, Representative Millard, for your service to the community.
Lockwood and Wakeman to Moderate Panels at Statewide Economic Development Conference
Congratulations to Jennifer Wakeman of DRIVE, who was selected to moderate “Rural Economic Development: Key Issues and Strategies”, and to Betsy Lockwood of SEDA-COG, who will moderate “Unpacking the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act”, discussing opportunities for Pennsylvania’s communities. Both will address the Fall Conference of the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association on October 25.
Kawneer Welcomes New President
Laurent Salah, Arconic BCS President
Congratulations to Laurent Salah, newly named President of Arconic Building & Construction Systems (BCS), the global manufacturer of building facade products that includes the Kawneer business. Read more.
Welcome New Member – Troop 47 Trading Company
An artisan boutique specializing in hand-poured, clean-burning candles, specialty gifts, and everyday essentials, Troop 47 Trading Company is named in honor of the Scouting and leadership legacy of owner Annie McCarty's dad, Jim. Products with the Troop 47 Trading Co. brand are handmade with the highest quality ingredients by Annie herself, and the store also features products sourced hyper-locally from crafters, artisans and makers. Welcome to the Chamber, Annie!
To learn more about Troop 47 Trading Company, visit their website, https://troop47.co.
Member News – September 21, 2022
The 167th Bloomsburg Fair Kicks Off Friday! 
Chamber members will be out in force at the Fair. This week, the Chamber will be checking in with member businesses and sharing on social media about their offerings. Will we see you there? Here's the full schedule!
Introducing the Susquehanna Valley United Way
Check out the formal announcement for the now five-county organization.
Shout Out to Marr Development!
We love it when members work together! As the Stuart Tank Memorial Association geared up for the Fair, they enlisted the help of Marr Development to help them with transportation of their venerable tank. You can visit the tank display at the entrance to the Fair's Education Building.
#StopTrackTragedies during Rail Safety Week
North Shore Railroad and Operation Lifesaver are honoring Rail Safety Week. Help prevent tragedy, and stay off the tracks. Take the Rail Safety Pledge today.
Congratulations to Camp Victory's own Jamie Huntley!
For dedicated humanitarian services, the Lions Club International Foundation awarded Jamie the Melvin Jones Fellow Award during the Camp Victory Open House/Appreciation Day. On behalf of the Chamber, we say, “Well-earned!”
Steve Stumbris to Moderate Next Season of WVIA’s Keystone Edition Business
Congratulations to Steve, the Bucknell Small Business Development Center’s Executive Director, who will host the monthly, thirty-minute panel discussion with entrepreneurs, executives and creators in its third season. Read more.
Operation Morrison Fund Established to Promote Foundation’s Sustainability
The Community Giving Foundation announced the creation of a new designated fund, established by outgoing President and CEO Holly Morrison and her family. The Operation Morrison Fund will provide an annual grant to the Foundation for its operating budget in support of the Foundation’s mission and work in the Central Susquehanna region. Read more.
Congratulations to Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble on 45 Years!
BTE kicked off its 45th season with community banners and “The Thin Place”. Thanks to the Town of Bloomsburg street crew, the street banners look great!
Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. Gives Back
Thanks to employees at Barry Isett & Associaties, more than 280 boxes of food were packed up for the Central PA. Food Bank. Thanks for your service!
Year-Round Energy Tips
UGI wants to help you get ready for winter weather - here's some ways to prepare your home and business now. Read more.
The Bloomsburg Public Library Strategic Planning Survey
The library needs your help completing a strategic planning survey.
Chess Club Gathers Thursday...Knight
You might be working the day shift, but they’ll be working "Knights” at the Thomas Beaver Free Library on September 22nd. All levels and ages welcome.
Bloomsburg Unveils River Trail Plan
The Bloomsburg River Trail will connect Bloomsburg via dedicated pedestrian and bike paths, which will improve residents' access and usability of town assets. See the plan.
First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. to Host Photography Competition
Competition categories include animals/wildlife, flowers, close-up/macro, nature/landscape, and black & white. Registration and digital photo submission due October 1. Download the competition packet here.
Cybersecurity: What the Nonprofit Executive Needs to Know
On September 29, McKonly & Asbury will discuss ways to mitigate and reduce risk specific to nonprofits susceptible to cyber-attack. Register here.
Geisinger Provides Resources About Annual Flu Shots
Check out Geisinger's flu resource page, which includes FAQ's, walk-in and drive-thru locations.
How to Eat Well on A Budget
You can eat well without breaking the bank. Here’s some ideas how from Geisinger’s registered dietitians.
Susquehanna Valley Medical Specialties to Host Flu Clinics
The scheduled flu clinics are all 8:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. The dates chosen so far are 9/23/22 and 10/4/22. Both the regular dose and (for senior patients) the high dose are available. Request an appointment through the MyChart portal or contact our Family Practice staff by calling 570-784-7300 ext. 201.
Construction Detour Continues in Bloomsburg
On September 19, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation issued the following update regarding construction projects in Bloomsburg:
Montoursville, PA – Construction on the Route 11 / 487 project in Bloomsburg, Columbia County, continues this week. The roadwork improvement project will continue near the intersection of Sixth Street / Columbia Boulevard and East Street and will continue to East Main Street.
Tuesday, September 20
On Tuesday, September 20, Phase 8 of the reconstruction project will begin on East Street between Main Street and Fourth Street. There will be NO ACCESS to Route 11 / 487 / East Street from the intersection of Route 487 (Lightstreet Road), Route 11 (Main Street) and East Second Street. Route 11 southbound from Berwick / 487 northbound traffic from Catawissa will be shifted to the Route 11 northbound / 487 southbound lane and continue through the work zone.
The East Street intersections with East Third Street, Green Avenue and East Anthony Avenue will be closed on the east side of East Street.
The Fifth Street intersection signal will be fully functional and controlling traffic with normal operations.
Long Term Detour
Route 11 northbound / 487 southbound (East Street) between Main Street and Fourth Street will be closed throughout the duration of the phase. The following detour routes have been implemented, with signs and message boards leading up to and throughout the detours:
- Route 487 southbound CAR traffic coming from Lightstreet and continuing to Route 11 North and 487 South will follow Route 11 South (Main Street) to Market Street to East Sixth Street to the Route 11 / Route 487 intersection at Columbia Boulevard.
- Route 487 southbound TRUCK traffic coming from Lightstreet and continuing to Route 487 South will follow Route 11 South (Main Street) to Market Street to Fort McClure Boulevard to Route 487.
- Route 487 southbound TRUCK traffic coming from Lightstreet and continuing to Route 11 North will follow Route 11 South (Main Street) to Market Street to Fort McClure Boulevard to Route 487 north to Route 11.
- Route 11 northbound CAR traffic coming from Danville and continuing to Route 11 North and 487 South will follow Market Street to East Sixth Street to the Route 11 / Route 487 intersection at Columbia Boulevard.
- Route 11 northbound TRUCK traffic coming from Danville direction continuing to Route 11 North will follow Market Street to Fort McClure Boulevard to Route 487 north to Route 11.
- Route 11 northbound TRUCK traffic coming from Danville and continuing to Route 487 South will follow Market Street to Fort McClure Boulevard to Route 487.
- Route 11 southbound from Lime Ridge and continuing to Route 487 northbound from Catawissa will continue those routes through the work area, with temporary traffic control devices maintaining a one-way condition.
- Tractor trailers (including Kawneer deliveries) must follow the detours explicitly, as there will be no access / exit points using local streets between Main Street and Sixth Street.
Work on this project includes removal and reconstruction of the existing roadway, replacement of curb, sidewalk, overhead street lighting, parking meters and drainage features. New traffic signals will be installed at the Fifth Street intersection. Upon completion of the Route 11 southbound / 487 northbound lane, construction will switch to the Route 11 northbound / 487 southbound lane for the same process with one-way traffic switching to the completed lane.
The final roadway wearing course will be placed upon completion of Phase 8 and cover the entire roadway of the three phases.
Motorists should be alert, slow down, expect travel delays, watch for lane changes, and drive with caution.
Work on this project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2022. HRI, Inc., is the primary contractor for the $6.8 million reconstruction project, which includes drainage improvements, roadway resurfacing, tree removal and replacement, new concrete curb and sidewalks, traffic signal upgrades, highway lighting, and other miscellaneous work. For more information including maps of the detours and construction area visit: https://www.penndot.gov/RegionalOffices/district-3/ConstructionsProjectsAndRoadwork/Pages/default.aspx or enter Bloomsburg 0011-114 into your web browser.
Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.
511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts.
Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Tioga, Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Montour and Columbia counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District3.
Information about infrastructure in District 3 including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.gov/D3Results. Find PennDOT's planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.
MEDIA CONTACT: Maggie Baker, 570-368-4202 or magbaker@pa.gov.
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Hayride Attractions & Amusement Rides Webinar
On March 5, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Ride & Measurements Standards division established a variance from the requirement that an owner of a "hayride attraction" must comply with specific provisions of the Amusement Ride Inspection Act and its attendant regulations.
The Department of Agriculture has, since 1986, had the authority to regulate hay rides as an amusement ride under the Amusement Ride Inspection Act, but since there were no standards for hay rides until 2019, they have never been regulated.
Recognizing that the standards are burdensome and seeking input from businesses and individuals whose operations these regulations might affect, PA Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding, Director of Bureau of Ride & Measurements Walt Remmert, and Deputy Secretary for Plant Industry and Consumer Protection Fred Strathmeyer, Jr. will host the Hayride Attractions & Amusement Rides Webinar on October 5, 2022 at noon via Zoom. To register, please email Kyle Kotzmoyer of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, at kfkotzmoyer@pfb.com.
Special thanks to Chamber member, Columbia County Farm Bureau, for this information!
SEDA-COG Seeking Subcontractors for Weatherization Assistance Program
Request for Proposals: Weatherization Subcontractors
FOR QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, HVAC, ASBESTOS ABATEMENT, MOLD REMOVAL, RADON MITIGATION AND ROOFERS.
Project: WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
For ongoing services in Columbia, Juniata, Lycoming, Luzerne, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, and Union counties.
This project is fully supported by grant funds that are administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), Pennsylvania Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), and SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG).
Scope of Work
SEDA-COG is seeking to establish and maintain a list of qualified contractors who can perform and install electrical, heat system repair and replacement measures, radon mitigation, mold removal, asbestos abatement and minor roofing repairs in program‐eligible homes located in Columbia, Juniata, Lycoming, Luzerne, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, and Union counties. The Agency reserves the right to accept or reject contractors for the contract year based on the number of active contractors already in its contractor pool. Professional Service contractors (electricians, plumbers, HVAC, radon mitigators, asbestos abatement contractors, mold removal contractors, and roofing contractors) will submit hourly billing rate information as part of the RFP. The duration of a contract awarded as a result of this Proposal will be for one year from November 1, 2022 through October 31, 2023.
Subcontractors that demonstrate qualifications and meet all the requirements will be considered a qualified contractor and may be eligible for a contract to provide services as required by SEDA-COG. Subcontractors SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE for third party post-installation inspections of the work completed, if applicable. Being on the contractor list and having an active contract DOES NOT guarantee any work.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CONSIDERATION:
- Subcontractors wishing to be considered for Weatherization work must submit Subcontractor Information Form and executed Agreement for Subcontractor Services for Activities.
- Subcontractors will be required to carry all applicable certifications required to perform their applicable scope of work.
- It is required that all prospective Subcontractors visit the following websites and read the Core Competencies for the Weatherization Assistance Program prior to requesting program participation. The document provides guidance for the Subcontractor of the expectations and standards required for participation in the Weatherization program. The website is located at https://nascsp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/wap-core-competencies.pdf.
- Also, the Standard Weatherization Specifications may be found at https://sws.nrel.gov/. Subcontractors working this program will be held to these standardrequirements. All work performed under this contract will be subject to a Quality Control Inspection by a SEDA-COG inspector and held to the standards set forth by the Standard Weatherization Specifications as stated above. Installation or repair services must pass the SEDA-COG Quality Control Inspection and if applicable, receive all third-party inspection approvals prior to the release of any payment for the services rendered by the contractor.
- Any Subcontractor who is found listed on the Federal Debarment List will not be allowed to participate.
- Subcontractors will be required to carry Commercial General Liability Insurance with SEDA-COG listed as a certificate holder and additional insured as follows: $1,000,000 each occurrence, $1,000,000 personal and advertising injury, $2,000,000 Products-Complete Operations, and $2,000,000 Aggregate Limit. Contractors shall also be listed as a PA Home Improvement Contractor licensee through the Office of the Attorney General.
- Once a Subcontractor is accepted, they are subject to all the terms and conditions of the contracts obtained by SEDA-COG. Those terms and conditions become an addendum to SEDA-COG’s contract with the Subcontractor and/or its contractor(s).
- The Subcontractor is required to submit detailed analysis, testing, photos, and documentation to SEDA-COG. Per state guidelines, SEDA-COG is required to receive detailed invoicing for any services provided.
- Inquiries should be directed to Christine Bohart, WX Assistant at 570-522-7219. Application information can be found on our website www.SEDA-COG.org, Request for Proposals / Quotes sections. They may also be picked up at our Weatherization office at 201 Furnace Road, Lewisburg, PA 17837.
All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope and delivered either by mail or in person to SEDA-COG WX, 201 Furnace Road, Lewisburg, PA 17837 by Friday, October 14th, 2022, no later than 2:00pm and shall be marked, “WX Subcontractor Work”. All submitted applications will become the exclusive property of SEDA-COG.
For more information, please contact Elaine Stauder, communications coordinator, SEDA-Council of Governments, at 570-522-7249 or estauder@seda-cog.org
SEDA-COG… Building Strong Economies & Strong Communities
Bloomsburg Municipal Authority Announces Sewer Rate Restructuring
The sewer rate schedule for customers of the Town of Bloomsburg will change effective January 1, 2023 (the first billing period that begins after this date). In an effort to develop a rate schedule that allows the Municipal Authority to meet its financial obligations to operate the local wastewater treatment plant, the Municipal Authority partnered with its engineering firm, Rettew, Inc. to conduct a comprehensive sewer rate study. The results of this study identified the need to establish a base rate for sewer service for town customers. The wastewater treatment plant and pump stations incur expenses regardless of the volume of wastewater that is treated. Operations at the wastewater treatment plant and pump stations must be maintained 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in order to meet the state and federal requirements for permitting of the treatment plant. For this reason, a minimum base service rate of $30.00 will be assessed monthly for all properties connected to the Bloomsburg sewer system. The minimum service fee will no longer include up to 2,000 gallons of consumption. Customers will pay for consumption using the following rate schedule in addition to the monthly base service rate effective January 1, 2023:
Water consumption is determined by information provided by Veolia Water PA. Veolia Water PA is the water service provider for customers with public water in the Town of Bloomsburg. Veolia Water PA is not affiliated with the Bloomsburg Municipal Authority and is a separate utility with a separate rate schedule for water service.
The new rate schedule will result in a decrease in cost for those using less than 2,000 gallons of water monthly. For example, customers who currently use zero gallons of water pay $34.00 per month. Under the new schedule, these customers will pay $30.00. Those using 1,000 gallons currently pay $34.00 and with the new schedule, those customers will pay $32.50.
For customers using over 2,000 gallons, the increase will vary based on water consumption. Most residential users of water will see rates increase by $1.00/month (those using less than 10,000 gallons of water monthly) and users in excess of 10,000 gallons monthly could experience increases of 3-22% dependent on water usage.
All properties connected to the sewer system in the Town of Bloomsburg will pay the minimum monthly service fee regardless of whether the property has water service. If there is no water consumption at the property as reported by Veolia Water PA, the property will be charged just the $30.00 minimum monthly service fee.
Contact the Municipal Authority office at 570-784-5422 with any questions.
The Chamber of Commerce is also interested in receiving information from businesses on cost increases. Details can be shared with Fred Gaffney at 570-784-2522 or fgaffney@columbiamontourchamber.com.
For more, check out Adobe's member listing, here.
Introducing the Newly Merged Five-County Susquehanna Valley United Way
The Official Merger of Greater Susquehanna Valley and Columbia-Montour United Ways.
Bloomsburg and Sunbury, PA, September 16, 2022 – The Greater Susquehanna Valley and Columbia-Montour United Ways are now Susquehanna Valley United Way. The name was released at United Way’s merger celebration and campaign kick-off on Thursday night. It was also announced that the newly merged organization will award $464,869.83 in grants to 57 local Funded Partners for 2022 and currently has $3,634,409.55 in active and pending grants.
“During our hybrid year, as a combined organization, we have already seen an increase in grant funding due to our expanded footprint,” said Adrienne Mael, President and CEO of Susquehanna Valley United Way. “Our two organizations have been collaborating and sharing programs, such as United in Recovery and the Revolving Car Loan, for over five years. This merger allows us to be more competitive in going after grant dollars that will benefit our community.”
The boards of directors for both organizations voted unanimously on June 22, 2022, to join forces. The merger, which was official as of September 1, follows a thorough and thoughtful process that begin in June of last year.
“The entire mission of the United Way is to better the lives of those we serve, and as a board of directors, we felt that by coming together we could greater serve our region,” said Liz Masich, Board President of Susquehanna Valley United Way. “As of today, we are now five-counties, working and Living United.”
Susquehanna Valley United Way serves over 260,000 residents across Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union counties. The merged United Way will continue to champion the unique identities of each community. At the same time, a consolidated organization will have a great ability to address community needs that are common across the region, such as transportation, youth mental health, and substance use disorder prevention, intervention, and community building.
“The opioid epidemic has really hit our region hard over the past 20 years and overdose deaths are on the rise,” said Olivia Oden, Stigma Reduction and Education Coordinator for United in Recovery. “This merger truly solidifies us in the five-county footprint and allows us access to more resources. We are now able to go into communities we may not have had a strong presence in and provide education and resources.”
Leaders from both Greater Susquehanna Valley and Columbia-Montour United Ways will serve on the new board and operating committees ensuring local stakeholders and community involvement from businesses, organizations, and individuals from both regions. Staff will continue to work from existing regional offices in Bloomsburg and Sunbury.
United Way’s mission remains the same - to mobilize the caring power of communities to advance the common good. Through community listening and data collection, United Way works to understand the needs of the local community. Then, brings partners and experts together to collaborate on solutions with the goal of ensuring all residents have access to the basic building blocks of a good life. As a consolidated organization, United Way will be able to increase efficiencies, reduce duplications, build on collective strengths, and is expected to mobilize human and financial resources more effectively across the region.
"The issues faced by our communities in the areas of Health, Education, and Financial Stability do not end at county lines,” Mael said. “Together, we can fundraise more effectively and access grants more competitively making us a stronger organization better equipped to address the needs of our local communities throughout the region.”
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About Susquehanna Valley United Way:
The United Way improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good. We fight for the Health, Education, and Financial stability of every person in our community and are located at 228 Arch Street, Sunbury, PA, and 36 East Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA. To learn more, please visit www.svuw.org.