Volunteer Stories

We believe in the power of volunteerism to transform our community. United Way Volunteers come from all walks of life. They roll up their sleeves and go where their time and talent is needed most. Be on the front lines and see what a difference your support makes. Below are just a few of our volunteer’s stories.

We believe in the power of volunteerism to transform our community. United Way Volunteers come from all walks of life. They roll up their sleeves and go where their time and talent is needed most. Be on the front lines and see what a difference your support makes. Below are just a few of our volunteer’s stories.

You Can't Help but Get Engaged

“One of the best ways to have a positive impact in the community is to give to United Way. It doesn’t take a lot to make a difference. And it stays in our community. That’s the biggest thing.”

Don't Just Sit There

“I’ve retired twice and I didn’t like it,” says Barb Veasy, a vibrant, attractive businesswoman who, at 82, has seven paying part-time jobs and seven steady volunteer commitments. It’s not unusual…

If You're Not Participating, You're Missing Out

“For many years, I didn’t understand the concept behind the Tocqueville Society. If I had known earlier, I’d have gotten involved sooner.” You never know when a good suggestion will change…

Volunteering: "It's Just a Part of Life"

Brent helps people all day long in his job as a Community Relations Coordinator with the City of Pittsburgh Council District 7 team, but when he heard about the Snow Angels program he liked the idea of…

Making an Impact

“I’m a guide for my mentee, not a parent, teacher or enforcer. It’s a unique relationship that many of these students don’t have anywhere else. And neither do I.”

A Mother's Care

“21 and Able helps the community understand that we all benefit if young people with disabilities have the chance to make the most of their lives.”

Bigger Gifts = Bigger Impact

“I give to the Impact Fund because I want my dollars to go wherever they’re needed most in the community.” During the many years that Dr. Daniel Edelstone led the Physicians Campaign at the University…

Women Have to Decide What's Important

Ellen Freeman was a young single mother when she emigrated from the former Soviet Union in 1993 and settled in Pittsburgh with help from local resettlement services. “I come from a culture that supports…