Since 1919, The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley have continued to improve the quality of life for thousands.

Through the heart of its donors, volunteers, and board members, their life-changing work has earned them the reputation of being a top non-profit in the area. 

Hundreds of volunteers and donors gathered at The Lake Club Thursday to celebrate the local chapter's victories in the past year, including its record-breaking fundraising number of $3,751,520 in 2024.

"This is our largest annual meeting with over 500 people attending," said President Bob Hannon. "What's great is these are our core donors. These are the people who donate, volunteer, and spread the word for United Way."

Some of the most successful initiatives include the Saturday of Caring. On the third Saturday of every month, volunteers drive meals to nearly 500 families throughout the area.

"Watching so many people come together and making that work like clockwork, it's amazing," said Josh Toot, 2025 Campaign Co-Chair.

"The United Way has done extension work for the Realty Building explosion," Josh Toot added. "No one was prepared for it and you have no script to go off of, but our volunteers excelled so much in helping people."

The United Way Care Closets have also grown to 20 locations. "That's food, clothing, and hygiene products in the schools for kids who need that little extra boost," Hannon explained. "We've gotten great feedback from teachers so we know that the care closets are working."

One program gaining much success: backpacks filled with school supplies that put a smile on hundreds of children's faces each year.

"After 15 years, we nearly doubled last year," said Toni Solarz, Dedicated Service Award Recipient. "This is about working together and pulling the right people together to make a difference for the kids." Solarz works alongside her team of volunteers who turn these ideas into a reality including Jena Habrick, Steve Cocca, Sam Houston, and Jennifer McCurdy.

"We see the United Way work together with the children and the schools and children get on the school bus with a backpack that they've never had in the past," Solarz explained. "It makes a difference and you know that you're doing something for the kids."

Each year the United Way selects campaign co-chairs that go the extra mile to find donors, host fundraisers, and grow the non-profit's mission. Josh and Jami Toot are taking the reigns for 2025.

"We're blessed to be a part of the Mahoning Valley and be a part of the United Way," Jami Toot said. "We're blessed to see all of the help that everyone's willing to give and how everyone just wants to chip in and be a part of it. Tonight was just a perfect example."

On May 7, the non-profit is hosting 'Women's Wednesday,' a hygiene drive to stock its 20 Care Closets.

To donate to The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, visit their website.