MELANEY HEGYES

1. Are you from Pittsburgh? Have you ever lived anywhere else?

I have always lived Southwest of Pittsburgh, but have visited and worked in Pittsburgh throughout my life.

2. Why did you choose to make Southwest PA your home?

I chose to make Southwest PA my home to be close to family and friends. I have always lived in the region. My husband and I enjoy living in the quiet of the Laurel highlands. However, we still have the option to attend sporting events and enjoy the restaurants in the city.

3. How did you choose the career you’re in today?

I received a bachelor’s degree in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. A professor encouraged me to consider graduate school and an assistantship in the Adult Education and Communications Technology program. This led to my work as an Educational Technologist. I enjoyed my career and stayed in the field for about six years. While on maternity leave, I saw an ad for the director of a community program, called Faith in Action, which supports older adults. I previously enjoyed teaching adults and this was a way I could contribute positively to my community. For 12 years I worked to grow the Faith in Action program alongside United Way. The program is now called Open Your Heart to a Senior in Westmoreland County. Most recently, I am the Managing Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Greensburg.

4. What do you love most about your job?

I have been fortunate to have a career that allows me to give back to others. I enjoy using my knowledge and skills to support programs that help others succeed. I believe in the dignity of the human person. We all have value. We are all equal. We should all respect one another. And, we all have a responsibility to support the communities that we live in so that we have a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable place to live. As director of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Greensburg, I support services for all age groups. I love my job because I know people have been helped because of our work.

5. Why do you volunteer with United Way?

There are so many ways to get involved with United Way, that anyone can fit it into their life. You can jump on board at any time! Challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. Adding a measure of good helps us achieve harmony and balance. Start small and continue to add more as you go and grow.

6. What is your favorite United Way memory?

I have participated in many United Way Day of Caring events. I have always enjoyed the appreciation and excitement from the seniors that we have helped. We have cleaned, painted, and provided general maintenance to their homes and yards. Older adults spend much of their time at their homes and the upkeep requires a lot of work. Being able to complete the work and see them enjoy a finished project has always been a great memory for me.