Scranton Area Community Foundation To Host Community Celebration The Scranton Area Community Foundation will host its 2025 Annual Community Celebration, “Celebrating Community: A Year of Impact, Partnership, and Possibility,” on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Foundation’s new home in the historic Century Club of Scranton, located at 612 Jefferson Avenue. The Foundation’s signature year-end event brings together donors, fundholders, partners, nonprofit leaders, and community members to celebrate the generosity that strengthens Northeastern Pennsylvania. The evening will highlight key milestones from the past year, recognize meaningful partnerships, and share stories of impact made possible through charitable giving. “This celebration is an opportunity to honor the people and organizations who make our region stronger every day,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “The progress we’ve made in 2025—from transformative grants to strategic community initiatives—is a direct reflection of our partners’ generosity and commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.” Guests will enjoy live music, hors d’oeuvres, and meaningful conversation during an opening networking hour beginning at 5:00 p.m. Dinner stations and refreshments will be available. A brief program will follow at 6:00 p.m., featuring stories of collaboration, progress, and the possibilities ahead for 2026. The event also offers attendees the opportunity to: Hear inspiring stories of impact made possible by donor generosity Connect with fellow supporters, partners, and community leaders Celebrate shared accomplishments from 2025 Look ahead to new opportunities for partnership in the coming year The Annual Community Celebration is free to attend, though registration is required. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Guests are kindly asked to RSVP by Sunday, November 30, at www.safdn.org. Event Details Scranton Area Community Foundation 2025 Annual Community Celebration “Celebrating Community: A Year of Impact, Partnership, and Possibility” Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. – Networking, dinner stations, and refreshments 6:00 p.m. – Program Location: Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club (612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton)
SACF Honors Michele Bannon and Dr. Tania Stoker The Scranton Area Community Foundation honored two outstanding community leaders, Michele Bannon and Dr. Tania Stoker, at the 2025 Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration, held on Wednesday, November 5, at the Foundation’s new home in the historic Century Club of Scranton. Bannon received the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, and Stoker received the Roseann Smith Alperin Award, two prestigious honors in the region recognizing women whose leadership, service, and vision have made a lasting impact throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “Dr. Stoker and Ms. Bannon are shining examples of what it means to lead with purpose,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through their compassion, generosity, and tireless service, they continue to strengthen our community and inspire others to do the same.” Both awards were established at the Scranton Area Community Foundation by generous donors to memorialize and honor women whose values and impact continue to inspire generations. The Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, established in 1992 by the family of Margaretta Belin Chamberlin, honors a woman whose vision, dedication, and courage have enhanced the quality of life and expanded opportunities for others within her community. The Roseann Smith Alperin Award, established by the Junior League of Scranton, recognizes an outstanding female volunteer who exemplifies the heart and spirit of Roseann Smith Alperin—someone who leads, motivates, and inspires others through her volunteer service and commitment to community. Michele Bannon, recipient of the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, was celebrated for her joyful and devoted civic engagement in Carbondale and beyond. Her decades of service include leadership roles with NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, and the Carbondale Historical Society, where she has been active since 1994. She also volunteers with St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, the Greater Carbondale YMCA, and the Maplewood Cemetery Trust. Her civic leadership extends to the Lackawanna County Land Bank Advisory Board, the Wayne Memorial Community Board, and the U-Comp Board of Directors through the Pennsylvania Municipal League. Within her parish at St. Rose of Lima Church, she serves on the Finance Committee, Pastoral Council, and as a lector and fundraising chair—roles she approaches with faith and enthusiasm. Bannon’s contributions have previously earned her the 2013 Roseann Smith Alperin Award and the 2019 Pioneer Hero Award. Dr. Tania Stoker, recipient of the Roseann Smith Alperin Award, has dedicated over 27 years to advancing equity, access, and opportunity through public education. Currently Assistant Superintendent for the Northern Lehigh School District, she has served as a teacher, coach, principal, and district leader dedicated to uplifting students and families. A dedicated volunteer, Dr. Stoker has been an active member of the Junior League of Scranton since 2017, serving as board member, treasurer, and committee chair. She also lends her leadership to St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, Ronald McDonald House of Scranton, Family to Family, Friends of the Poor, and the Adopt a Single Mom Project. Her service extends to advisory boards for the Workforce Board Lehigh Valley – Business Education Partnership and Lehigh University’s Zoellner Arts Center. Her leadership has been recognized with the Mary Harriman Award (2020), Margaret L. Richards Award (2024), and the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators’ Wanda McDaniel Award (2025). Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi congratulates Michele Bannon, recipient of the 2025 Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi congratulates Dr. Tania Stoker, recipient of the 2025 Roseann Smith Alperin Award, during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Each year, Women in Philanthropy (WIP), an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, celebrates the power of collective giving and honors women whose leadership and service strengthen communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania. The 2025 celebration marked a milestone year, taking place for the first time at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton, where supporters, partners, and community members gathered to celebrate over a decade of impact and growing regional momentum. The evening featured stories of empowerment, progress, and generosity that showcased how women’s collective philanthropy continues to change lives across the region. Guests enjoyed an inspiring program highlighting the initiative’s achievements, including its ongoing support of financial education programs, microgrants for women-owned businesses, and collaborative efforts to address barriers such as childcare and transportation—all aimed at improving economic mobility and quality of life for women, girls, and families in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Through events like this annual celebration, Women in Philanthropy continues to bring together a diverse network of leaders, donors, and changemakers united by a shared vision: to invest in lasting, equitable progress across the region.
SACF’s Laura Ducceschi Selected for National Leadership Cohort The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that its President and CEO, Laura Ducceschi, has been selected to participate in the 2025–26 cohort of the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs, a national program convened by CFLeads, the country’s premier network of community foundations. The Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs is designed to strengthen the strategic leadership of community foundation executives nationwide. Participants engage in intensive peer learning, reflection, and collaboration to advance bold, equity-centered, and community-driven approaches to philanthropy. “It is an honor to be selected to join this distinguished cohort of leaders,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This program will provide invaluable opportunities to learn from peers nationwide, strengthen our leadership strategies, and deepen how we work with and for our community. I look forward to bringing these insights back to Northeastern Pennsylvania as we continue to advance equity, build connections, and drive lasting impact.” Through the program, Laura will join CEOs from community foundations across the United States to explore emerging challenges, share innovative practices, and strengthen the collective impact of philanthropy in local communities. “Laura’s selection for this national leadership program reflects both her dedication and the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s ongoing commitment to bold, impactful leadership,” said Ellen Burkey, Chair of the Scranton Area Community Foundation Board of Governors. “We are proud to see Laura representing our region and bringing back strategies that will continue to benefit the communities we serve.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation has a 76-year history of serving Northeastern Pennsylvania through philanthropy, community leadership, and collaboration. Laura’s participation in CFLeads’ Executive Leadership Institute represents the Foundation’s continued investment in advancing equity, strengthening civic participation, and building resilient communities across the region. Click here to find more information about the Executive Leadership Institute for CEOs.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Fights Local Hunger With Fundraiser The Scranton Area Community Foundation, in partnership with the City of Scranton and the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, is proud to announce the return of The Heart of Scranton: A Virtual Fundraiser to Help Our Neighbors, taking place now through November 30, 2025. The Heart of Scranton campaign brings together generous donors, caring neighbors, and trusted local nonprofits to address a growing and urgent need: food insecurity. As the cost of living continues to rise and families face the impact of the ongoing federal government shutdown and the potential lapse of food assistance benefits, thousands of residents in Lackawanna County are struggling to put food on the table. According to Feeding America, nearly 33,000 county residents, including many children, are considered food insecure. Donors may choose to support any of the participating organizations individually, or they may make a single gift to the Foundation’s general Heart of Scranton Fund, with all proceeds evenly distributed among the participating organizations. “At the Scranton Area Community Foundation, we see every day how generosity strengthens and sustains our community,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through the Heart of Scranton Virtual Fundraiser, we’re turning that generosity into real results—fueling local organizations on the front lines of hunger to ensure our neighbors have access to food and essential resources. This partnership with the City of Scranton and the United Way reflects what we do best: bringing people and resources together to build a stronger, more resilient community.” One hundred percent of all donations (minus standard credit card processing fees) will go directly to support these organizations, which are doing mission-critical work to combat hunger in the Scranton area. This year’s effort builds on the success of the original Heart of Scranton campaign in 2020, which raised over $180,000 in under 48 hours to provide emergency food assistance during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also continues the Foundation’s ongoing partnership with the City of Scranton to address hunger, including a joint $10,000 investment in 2024 to establish the Lackawanna Food Policy Council Fund, strengthening coordination among local food-access agencies. “Earlier this year, our Hunger Task Force raised the alarm about food security issues in Scranton getting increasingly worse. When times are tough, we know Scranton residents band together to help their neighbors, showing the true heart of this community,” Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti said. “The need for this fundraiser right now isn’t just a reminder of food insecurity during the winter or the holidays. It will also support those around us who may be affected by the pending lapse in food assistance benefits caused by the federal government shutdown.” Click here to find more information.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Encourages ‘Leave 5%’ to Support Future As the season of gratitude and giving begins, the Scranton Area Community Foundation is renewing its call for residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania to consider a lasting act of generosity: pledging to leave just 5% of their estate to strengthen their local community for generations to come. The Scranton Area Community Foundation is one of more than 40 community foundations across the Commonwealth participating in the PA Giving Pledge, a statewide initiative of the Pennsylvania Community Foundation Association (PACFA) designed to inspire Pennsylvanians to give back where they live, create sustainable funding for local nonprofits, and address community needs. “The PA Giving Pledge is a powerful reminder that every one of us can leave a lasting legacy,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “By committing even a small percentage of what we leave behind, we can create permanent, local resources that make life better for our neighbors—today and for generations to come.” According to data from the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, more than $418 billion is expected to transfer between generations across the Commonwealth by 2030. If just 5% of that wealth were dedicated to charitable causes through the PA Giving Pledge, it could generate $21 billion in permanent community endowments to support critical needs—such as education, healthcare, workforce development, and the environment—across Pennsylvania. Locally, that potential impact is equally remarkable. “Here in Lackawanna County, a 5% legacy commitment from residents could generate more than $12.6 million every year to support nonprofits and causes that make our region stronger,” Ducceschi noted. “It’s a simple but transformative way to give back to the place you call home.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation and its statewide partners also engage professional advisors, business leaders, and philanthropists to spread awareness of the opportunity and help clients plan charitable gifts that reflect their values and vision for the future. “We’re honored to have the Scranton Area Community Foundation as a leading voice in this effort,” said Michael L. Batchelor, President of the Pennsylvania Community Foundation Association. “Together, we have the opportunity to leave a shared legacy that will benefit Pennsylvanians forever.” Residents can learn more, calculate their potential impact, and take the PA Giving Pledge by visiting PAGivingPledge.org.
Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Brittany Pagnotti Recognized The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that Brittany Pagnotti, Director of Donor Relations & Communications, has earned the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation from The American College of Financial Services and has also been recertified as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) by CFRE International. The CAP® designation provides advanced training in philanthropic planning, charitable gift techniques, and legacy strategies, preparing professionals to help donors align their charitable goals with estate and financial planning objectives. By earning this designation, Pagnotti joins a distinguished group of professionals worldwide who are uniquely equipped to help individuals and families create meaningful and lasting impact through philanthropy. The CFRE credential is the only globally recognized, accredited certification for fundraising professionals and reflects a high standard of ethics, knowledge, and leadership in fundraising. Pagnotti has held the CFRE certification since 2020 and continues to demonstrate her dedication to advancing ethical, effective philanthropy in Northeastern Pennsylvania. “These accomplishments reflect Brittany’s ongoing commitment to excellence and to the Foundation’s mission of responsibly stewarding resources and inspiring transformative philanthropy to build a stronger, more vibrant community,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Her expertise enhances our ability to serve donors, advisors, and community partners in achieving meaningful charitable impact.” Brittany Pagnotti, MBA, CAP®, CFRE, has been with the Scranton Area Community Foundation since 2018 and currently serves as the Director of Donor Relations & Communications. In this role, she leads philanthropic communications, donor stewardship, and strategic initiatives that inspire charitable giving across Northeastern Pennsylvania. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit communications and development. Her leadership supports the Foundation’s mission to responsibly steward resources and build a stronger, more vibrant community through philanthropy.
Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Laura Ducceschi Selected for National CEO Program The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that its President and CEO, Laura Ducceschi, has been selected to participate in the 2025–26 cohort of the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs, a national program convened by CFLeads, the country’s premier network of community foundations. The Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs is designed to strengthen the strategic leadership of community foundation executives nationwide. Participants engage in intensive peer learning, reflection, and collaboration to advance bold, equity-centered, and community-driven approaches to philanthropy. “It is an honor to be selected to join this distinguished cohort of leaders,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This program will provide invaluable opportunities to learn from peers nationwide, strengthen our leadership strategies, and deepen how we work with and for our community. I look forward to bringing these insights back to Northeastern Pennsylvania as we continue to advance equity, build connections, and drive lasting impact.” Through the program, Laura will join CEOs from community foundations across the United States to explore emerging challenges, share innovative practices, and strengthen the collective impact of philanthropy in local communities. “Laura’s selection for this national leadership program reflects both her dedication and the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s ongoing commitment to bold, impactful leadership,” said Ellen Burkey, Chair of the Scranton Area Community Foundation Board of Governors. “We are proud to see Laura representing our region and bringing back strategies that will continue to benefit the communities we serve.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation has a 76-year history of serving Northeastern Pennsylvania through philanthropy, community leadership, and collaboration. Laura’s participation in CFLeads’ Executive Leadership Institute represents the Foundation’s continued investment in advancing equity, strengthening civic participation, and building resilient communities across the region. Click here to find more information about the Executive Leadership Institute for CEOs.
Scranton Area Community Foundation to Host NEPA Learning Conference The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce the return of the NEPA Learning Conference, a three-day professional development event designed to strengthen nonprofit organizations and their leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. The conference will take place September 17–19, 2025, at Fiorelli’s in Peckville. First held in 2019, the NEPA Learning Conference returns in 2025 for its fifth gathering. Over the years, it has become a signature event for the region’s nonprofit community, bringing together staff, board members, and volunteers for a dynamic learning experience centered on leadership, collaboration, and impact. The conference features a robust lineup of national thought leaders and local changemakers offering workshops, keynote presentations, and interactive sessions tailored to the needs of the nonprofit sector. Drawing more than 200 nonprofit professionals each year, the NEPA Learning Conference has become a highly anticipated opportunity for regional leaders to convene, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives. Attendees represent a wide range of mission areas—from human services and education to arts and environmental organizations—all united by a shared commitment to strengthening their communities. This year’s keynote speakers offer a powerful mix of inspiration, expertise, and practical tools, each chosen to address the real-world challenges and opportunities facing today’s nonprofit leaders: Dr. Tiffany “Dr.T” Manuel, founder and CEO of TheCaseMade, is a national expert on systems change and narrative strategy. She’ll share how nonprofits can shift mindsets and build support through powerful, equity-centered storytelling. Dr. Katie P. Desiderio Frino and Dr. Michael G. Frino, bestselling authors of The Beekeeper and The Stargazer, will explore how teams can unlock potential through trust, emotional intelligence, and values- driven culture to spark transformative growth. Michael Swenson, a leadership coach and seasoned FranklinCovey facilitator, will offer insights on leading with clarity and purpose, drawing on his experience as a nonprofit executive, educator, and U.S. Army veteran. A highlight of this year’s event is the return of the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards, a peer-nominated program recognizing outstanding organizations, individuals, and collaborative projects that reflect the conference’s core themes of collaboration, innovation, advocacy, and inclusion. Three award categories—Nonprofit of the Year, Collaborative Project of the Year, and the Rising Star Award—honor exceptional leadership and impact across the region. Winners receive unrestricted grants and professional development opportunities, with finalists selected and celebrated by their peers at the conference. “This conference was created to meet a need we heard again and again from nonprofit leaders— affordable, high-quality professional development grounded in the realities of our local communities,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Our goal is to help nonprofit professionals gain the tools, strategies, and connections they need to lead with confidence and make an even greater impact.” This year’s conference will explore key themes including: Building trust and team culture Communicating with clarity and credibility Advancing equity and inclusion Strengthening fundraising and board engagement Embracing innovation and technology in the nonprofit space Attendees will have opportunities to connect with peers, share ideas, and leave with practical takeaways to apply immediately within their organizations. Special bundle pricing is available to encourage participation from entire teams, and scholarships are offered to ensure access for organizations of all sizes. The NEPA Learning Conference is an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation through its Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence. It reflects the Foundation’s deep commitment to investing in the strength, sustainability, and success of the region’s nonprofit sector. “Strong nonprofits build strong communities,” said Ellen Burkey, Board Chair of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This conference is one of the many ways we’re working to uplift the incredible work being done by organizations throughout our region.” Registration is now open at nepalearningconference.com. Early bird pricing is available through July 31, 2025.
The Scranton Area Community Foundation, NEPA Gives Raised Over $1.3 Million for Local Nonprofits More than 8,000 donors rally in support of 257 organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that NEPA Gives 2025 raised over $1.3 million in just 24 hours to support 257 nonprofit organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania. The sixth annual event—held from 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5 through 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6—saw more than 8,000 donors come together to uplift the critical work of nonprofits making a difference throughout the region. NEPA Gives is the largest day of giving in Northeastern Pennsylvania, coordinated by the Scranton Area Community Foundation in partnership with The Luzerne Foundation, Wayne County Community Foundation, Monroe County Community Foundation, Carbon County Community Foundation, Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, Greater Pike Community Foundation, Posture Interactive, and dozens of generous community sponsors. “NEPA Gives is a celebration of community—and a powerful reminder of the generosity that defines our region,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “We are grateful to every donor, sponsor, and nonprofit that helped make this the most successful NEPA Gives to date.” Thanks to over $250,000 in bonus funds, matching gifts, and incentive prizes, donations went even further to help participating nonprofits maximize their fundraising potential. Support came from every corner of the region, both online and in person. A festive NEPA Gives Launch Party was held on June 5 at the Foundation’s new headquarters in the Century Club of Scranton, and the celebration continued at the popular NEPA Gives Block Party on June 6, drawing hundreds of attendees to downtown Scranton for live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. Nonprofits of all sizes and missions participated, including returning participants such as Saint Joseph’s Center, Women’s Resource Center, NEPA Youth Shelter, and the Lackawanna River Conservation Association. The event’s success was made possible through the support of generous sponsors, including The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Moses Taylor Foundation, Coterra, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, Schwartz Mack Foundation, Fidelity Bank, Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation, Honesdale National Bank, Wegmans, and many others. Media partners such as WBRE/WYOU TV, FOX56, Audacy, Cumulus Media, Lamar Advertising, and Times-Shamrock Communications provided critical promotional support to raise awareness across the region.
Geisinger School of Medicine and Northeastern Health Care Foundation Celebrate at Annual Reception Geisinger School of Medicine and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation (NEPA HCF) recently held their annual reception to review the progress and impact of the NEPA Health Care Foundation Scholars Program. The program continues to play a pivotal role in supporting medical students committed to serving the healthcare needs of northeastern Pennsylvania. In October 2014, the board of the NEPA HCF approved a grant to the School of Medicine (then called The Commonwealth Medical College). The grant, payable over 11 years, established the NEPA HCF Scholars Program, funding scholarships for 20 Doctor of Medicine (MD) students. Two students were chosen from each incoming class, beginning in 2015 with the incoming members of the Class of 2019, and ending in 2024 with the Class of 2028. To date, a total of 20 scholarships to 20 students have been awarded through the NEPA HCF Scholars Program. Laura Ducceschi, administrator of NEPA HCF, and President & CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, emphasized the program’s alignment with the foundation’s mission, “Establishing this scholarship made sense, given NEPA HCF’s goal to improve the region’s health and well-being. Supporting medical students committed to practicing medicine in our community ensures a healthier future for northeastern Pennsylvania.” The reception also focused on the group’s annual report, detailing the program’s achievements. Key accomplishments include the continued support of students through substantial scholarship awards and the reinforcement of partnerships aimed at enhancing health care access in the region. “The NEPA Health Care Foundation Scholars Program is a wonderful example of how strategic philanthropy and medical education can work together to strengthen our region’s health care system,” said Julie Byerley, M.D., M.P.H., Geisinger College of Health Sciences president and dean. “By investing in our students and encouraging them to stay and practice in northeastern Pennsylvania, we’re building a healthier future — one physician at a time.” First row, L to R: Parita Ray, Laura Barna, M.D. (alumna, Class of 2019) Caitlin Doughton, Kyle Kidd, Evan Florey, Madison Ziobro, Alexis Blackburn, Abigail Glynn, Jake Parrick, M.D. (alumnus, Class of 2019), Alivia Roberts Back row, L to R: Tonyehn Verkitus, Catherine Mihalick, Sarah Wodder, Shubhra Shetty, M.D., Jason Woloski, M.D., Laura Ducceschi, Barbara Grimaud, Michael Cordaro, Joseph Burke, Patrick Connors, Julie Byerley, M.D., M.P.H., Peter Cognetti
