Administration

Bendapudi, Chadwell: Improving Centre County with Penn State United Way campaign

A message from Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi and Penn State United Way Campaign Chair Faye A. Chadwell

The Nittany Lion mascot was among members of the local community rappelling down the side of Beaver Stadium as part of the Centre County United Way's "Over the Edge" event on Oct. 8. Participants who raised at least $1,500 for Centre County United Way had the opportunity to rappel 110 feet off the south side of the stadium. The popular fundraising effort helps to provide resources and services to over 53,000 county residents. Credit: Curtis Chan / Penn State. Creative Commons

Each year, through the Penn State United Way Campaign, residents of Centre County come together to support the work of nonprofits whose focus is to change lives within our community. This longstanding commitment — which has been a cornerstone of how our University lives out our public service mission for more than 40 years — provides more than 40% of the annual funds raised for Centre County United Way. 

Funds raised through this annual campaign help to fight housing and food insecurity, provide access to mental health resources and health care, and change the lives of our neighbors and friends. Through your support, we are able to connect Centre County residents with the support they need to find stability, happiness, and opportunities to grow. 

Support for the Penn State United Way Campaign can provide long-lasting impacts for so many people in our area. One in three Centre County residents access these services through Centre County United Way each year. United Way’s 24 partner agencies work to give these residents life-saving support in times of crisis and turmoil. Those efforts are only possible through your support during this annual campaign. 

Whether you participate in “Over the Edge” at Beaver Stadium, volunteer your time, or offer either one-time or continuous financial contributions, your efforts are essential in shaping the supportive and compassionate community we are building in Centre County. Through your contribution, you help Centre County residents receive the education they need to achieve their dreams, assist in providing healthcare to residents without insurance, help families to stay housed and fed, and so much more. 

Your support during this campaign showcases the kindness and dedication of Centre County residents to create a closer, stronger, and more resilient community: a true reflection of Penn State’s enduring mission to serve and empower our communities.  

Please visit UnitedWay.psu.edu to learn more about how you can donate or volunteer and continue the important work being done in our community. 

Sincerely,  

Neeli Bendapudi, Penn State President  

Faye A. Chadwell, Chair of the 2024-25 Penn State United Way Campaign, Dean, Penn State University Libraries

Last Updated November 20, 2024