Fred Thieman

“United Way is looking out for the vulnerable, the forgotten, those in need and those at risk. It’s a key component and partner in a philanthropic ecosystem in Western Pennsylvania that makes most other communities green with envy.”

As U.S. Attorney for Western Pennsylvania, Fred Thieman’s commitment to improving the lives of at risk youth led him to explore the worlds of education, human services, and foundations. Now President of The Buhl Foundation, Fred is in the business of finding smart investment opportunities that make the community better for everyone.

That’s why Fred and his wife, Christine, make United Way an important part of their community giving. United Way’s community impact model is unique in the funding world: United Way raises and quickly reinvests the community’s dollars in well-run programs that have true impact on some of the most serious problems facing our community. It’s a responsive, innovative model that’s critical to the region’s well being.

Fred says that United Way is much more than a good stand alone opportunity for charitable giving. United Way donors can participate in hands-on experiences of the work they make possible; Fred fondly remembers wielding a chainsaw to build a bridge with a Day of Caring team in Riverview Park. “United Way is not only a good vehicle for your dollars, it’s a good vehicle to introduce you to opportunities to give back to the community,” he says.  “It’s not just about money. It’s also about service, time and impact.”