United Way Day of Caring Drives Community Change

At the heart of community change are the thousands of dedicated volunteers who bring the United Way mission to life across Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Counties. These individuals give selflessly of their time and talents to create lasting solutions and improve the quality of life for everyone who calls our region home.

The cornerstone of these efforts is the annual Day of Caring—a powerful demonstration of community spirit and collaboration. Each year, hundreds of volunteers are mobilized across the tri-county area to work directly with the United Way and its network of partner agencies. From painting classrooms to planting gardens and revitalizing community spaces, volunteers roll up their sleeves to make a visible and lasting impact.

In addition to the Day of Caring, the Youth Day of Caring engages students in grades 7–12 in service projects that foster leadership, teamwork, and civic engagement. After a successful run in past years, the Youth Day of Caring is set to return in Spring 2025, providing another meaningful opportunity for young people to give back to their community.

Those interested in volunteering with the United Way are encouraged to reach out and get involved. Opportunities are available year-round, and every helping hand contributes to a stronger, more connected Northeastern Pennsylvania.

For more information or to sign up as a volunteer visit https://uwlc.net/volunteer/

Stone House Investment Management: Free Retirement Planning Seminar

Join Advisors Mike and Ryan from Stone House Investment Management for an educational evening designed to give you clarity, confidence, and actionable strategies. Plus, enjoy a gourmet dinner, on us!

What You’ll Discover:

How to Build a Tax-Efficient Retirement Income Plan

Learn proven strategies to reduce unnecessary taxes so you can keep more of what you’ve saved.

The Most Common Mistakes Retirees Wish They’d Avoided

Understand pitfalls that can derail a secure retirement—and how you can avoid them.

How Today’s Economic Trends Could Impact Your Nest Egg

Get insights into how market volatility, rising taxes, and inflation can affect your income.

The Answer to the Big Question: Can Your Retirement Last?

Walk away knowing the steps you can take now to help ensure your money lasts as long as you do.

Reserve Your Seat Today!

Questions? Call us at (570) 507-8946 or email info@stonehousemail.com

The Wright Center, National Immunization Awareness Month

Arrival of school year an opportune time for vaccines

While the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic may have passed, the public health lessons it taught remain critically relevant – particularly the essential role vaccines play in disease prevention and population health.

Each August, National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) highlights the importance of staying current with recommended vaccinations across the lifespan. At The Wright Center for Community Health, we advocate for proactive conversations between patients and health care providers about necessary immunizations to protect against preventable diseases.

Vaccination not only reduces individual risk of illness but also contributes to herd immunity, thereby safeguarding vulnerable populations such as infants, immunocompromised individuals, and older individuals. In addition to COVID-19 and annual influenza vaccines, other immunizations remain crucial for preventing serious conditions, including measles, hepatitis A and B, meningococcal disease, and shingles.

With the academic year approaching, now is the optimal time for parents and guardians to confirm that children are compliant with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention immunization schedule. Pediatric vaccines provide protection against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), pertussis (Tdap), hepatitis A and B, meningococcal infections, and human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers.

Vaccination is also important during pregnancy. Expectant mothers are advised to receive the influenza and Tdap vaccines, both of which confer passive immunity to the newborn, reducing the risk of influenza and pertussis in the first months of life.

Adult immunization recommendations vary by age, underlying health conditions, occupational exposure, and travel history. Common adult vaccines include those for influenza, pneumococcal disease, shingles, and pertussis. Primary care providers are best positioned to guide patients in making evidence-based immunization decisions.

To improve access to these essential services, The Wight Center deploys a 34-foot mobile medical and dental unit, Driving Better Health, which delivers vaccinations and other preventive care directly to schools, neighborhoods, and social service agencies throughout our region – particularly in medically underserved communities.

In addition to immunization services, The Wright Center offers a comprehensive range of pediatric and family medicine services, including:

  • Well-child visits and physicals for school, sports, and camp participation
  • Newborn care and same-day sick appointments for acute illness
  • Developmental and sensory screenings (hearing, vision, height, and weight)
  • Asthma diagnosis and management
  • Behavioral health screenings for conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression
  • Evidence-based counseling on growth, nutrition, injury prevention, and general wellness

Looking ahead, seasonal influenza vaccines will soon be available at our 13 community health centers across Northeast Pennsylvania. Visit TheWrightCenter.org to locate the most accessible site for you and your family.

Vaccines remain one of the most significant advancements in modern medicine. They are safe, extensively studied, and highly effective at preventing morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. During National Immunization Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to review their vaccination status and consult with their health care provider to ensure full immunization coverage for themselves and their loved ones.

Prachi Agarwal, M.D., is a board-certified pediatrician and physician faculty for the Family Medicine Residency Pediatrics Program at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education. To make an appointment with Dr. Agarwal at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, call 570.941.0630 or go to TheWrightCenter.org.

NeighborWorks NEPA to Hold Carbondale Block Party

NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania is excited to hold our second annual Carbondale Block Party! This event is FREE to the public and will be held this Saturday, July 26! Rain date is July 27. It will be held at the YMCA Park at 82 N Main St, Carbondale, PA, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This family-friendly event aims to bring together residents of all ages to highlight the city’s unique features and foster community engagement. The event will include a cookout, family games and prizes, kids’ activities and more!

NeighborWorks is also currently looking for volunteers to help with running carnival games, food and other activities for the Carbondale Block Party. For more information, please contact Emily Arcaro, Community Development Specialist at 570-558-2490 or earcaro@nwnepa.org.

NEPIRC, Get Tickets: Annual Manufacturing Summit & Expo

Summertime has its perks, but it’s good to plan for autumn so you won’t miss out. Northeastern Pennsylvania’s picturesque foliage is one draw for visitors to the region in October, but a popular attraction for many is the state’s largest and most impactful summit and networking event: Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) Best Practices Summit & Expo hosted by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC).

 NEPIRC is excited to announce the theme of this year’s Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo, Smart Manufacturing Starts Here: Your Path to AI, Robotics & Automation. Tickets, which start at $75, are available to attend this annual event that raises awareness of the region’s robust manufacturing, available career opportunities and the advanced technologies that drive industry on Friday, Oct. 3, at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 NEPIRC President/CEO Drew Mackie said, “At a time when innovation drives competitiveness, this conference is a must attend for manufacturers looking to take the first step into Industry 5.0. It’s not just about what’s next—it’s about what’s possible right now. Join us and discover how your business can be a part of the future of American manufacturing.”

 This year’s MFG Day keynote speaker Jake Hall, known as the “Manufacturing Millennial,” is on a mission to educate younger people by meeting them where they are—on social media.  Hall will address the future of manufacturing, effective social media use for manufacturers and much more. Hall will also lead a breakout session entitled, “The Power of Social Media: What You Should Do.”

Hall’s desire to influence the future workforce aligns closely with the goals of NEPIRC’s innovative Manufacturing Ambassador Dream Team initiative that increases high school and college student awareness of outstanding careers available within Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing field.

 Who should attend MFG Day?

Mackie says that this event is ideal for manufacturing executives and decision makers; non-manufacturers who provide a service or product that benefits the manufacturing industry; economic development organizations; high school and college students; colleges/universities; manufacturing advocates and enthusiasts; government officials; technology, robotics and AI companies; northeastern Pennsylvania champions; and anyone who would like to learn more about the manufacturing industry or is considering a manufacturing career.

 If you want to learn from industry experts and connect with people who are making a difference in the manufacturing industry, then this is a must-attend event! This year’s MFG DAY will focus heavily on manufacturing technology, AI and automation. Visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to purchase tickets.

 MFG DAY sponsorship opportunities are available but going quickly! If interested, visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to learn more and complete and submit the confirmation form required to lock in sponsorship. Additionally, NEPIRC is proud to announce that InnoTek Computer Consulting of Bloomsburg is this year’s Presenting Sponsor.

 For more information or to purchase tickets, email Randy Yash at Randy@NEPIRC.com or visit NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Day webpage at www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com.

Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, Tickets On Sale for ThanksLiving

While summer temperatures may still be soaring, fall is just around the corner—and so is one of the most anticipated events in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Indraloka’s ThanksLiving Celebration. Tickets are now on sale for this beloved, one-of-a-kind gathering, and space is limited.

ThanksLiving isn’t just a harvest celebration—it’s Indraloka’s signature fundraising event and an unforgettable day filled with joy, compassion, and community. Taking place on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, ThanksLiving invites guests to experience the sanctuary in all its autumn splendor, alongside rescued farmed animals, live music, delicious plant-based fare, and festive seasonal fun.

“This event has become a tradition for so many,” said Founder and Executive Director, Dr. Indra Lahiri. “It’s a chance to celebrate life, connect with rescued farm animals in a meaningful way, and support a sanctuary where healing and hope are at the heart of everything we do.”

ThanksLiving sells out every year, and tickets are already moving fast. This year, several new add-on options allow guests to personalize their experience:

Early Access to the Raffle Tent – For just $10, get first pick at incredible raffle items before the crowds arrive. Get your tickets in early and enjoy the rest of the event.

Behind-the-Scenes Barn Tour – For $20, enjoy an intimate tour of select barns and meet the animals up close—something rarely offered at public events of this size.

VIP Experience – Add both for only $25 and enjoy the full ThanksLiving experience.

Proceeds from ThanksLiving support Indraloka’s year-round efforts to rescue and care for nearly 200 farmed animals, offer educational programs, and provide healing experiences for people of all ages.

Tickets and full event details are available now at https://indraloka.org/event/2025-thanksliving-celebration/.

Don’t wait—reserve your spot today and bring a little autumn magic into your summer.  Early Bird prices end soon. 

The Wright Center, August ‘Walk With a Doc’

The Wright Center for Community Health invites community members of all ages to step into better health by joining its ongoing Walk with a Doc initiative. These monthly walks promote both physical well-being and community engagement in a friendly environment.

Each event is guided by local doctors and health care professionals who lead participants on a casual walk while offering valuable health tips and engaging in open, health-related discussions. It’s a chance to enjoy gentle exercise, ask questions, and meet others who share an interest in healthy living – all in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

The August Walk with a Doc in Jermyn will take place on Saturday, Aug. 2, at 9 a.m. at the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. Walkers should gather at the Delaware Street Trailhead entrance. The Scranton walk is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 9, at 9 a.m., also along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, with walkers meeting at the Olive Street entrance.

These events are free and open to the public, welcoming individuals of all fitness levels. No pre-registration is required.

Walk with a Doc is a global nonprofit organization that promotes physical activity and meaningful conversations between physicians and community members. According to the American Heart Association, just 30 minutes of walking per day can improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, support weight management, boost mental health, and reduce the risk of conditions such as obesity and osteoporosis.

For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health’s Walk with a Doc program, please contact Melissa Germano-Ryczak at germanom@TheWrightCenter.org.

Outreach to Host Annual Children’s Career Fair

Have you ever asked your child what they want to be when they grow up? Do they want to work with reptiles? Be a firefighter? A physical therapist? A barber? A librarian? A banker? – the list goes on!

At Outreach – Center for Community Resources’ annual “Children’s Career Fair – Professions for Parents, Too!” event, your child can explore these exciting career pathways while engaging with real professionals in the field.

The event will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10 am—1 pm, at Outreach’s Seventh Avenue Center in Scranton.

During this time, the grounds of Outreach will transform into a career hub for children to experience hands-on activities and get a firsthand look at potential careers. The event will feature free live entertainment, food and beverages, and a school supplies giveaway for attendees.

Free parking will be available at Redner’s Markets on 7th Avenue in Scranton. Colts Bus will provide complimentary bus transportation to and from the parking lot. 

Outreach welcomes sponsors and businesses interested in hosting a booth. If you would like more information on how to get involved, contact Lori Ryan at 570-558-7565.

Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, Community Rescue for Elderly Dog

A 14-year-old dog named Gino is recovering at the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic after being rescued from heartbreaking neglect, thanks to the swift response of multiple local organizations and the donors who made their work possible.

On Tuesday afternoon, Meals on Wheels of NEPA received a call about a dog in crisis. Gino, under the care of an elderly person in serious decline, was unable to stand. His fur was so severely matted that his ears were sealed shut and his skin raw. His nails had curled painfully, and his body was caked in urine and feces. With his muscles wasting from immobility, Gino had been silently suffering for far too long. 

Recognizing the urgency, Meals on Wheels contacted Blue Chip Animal Refuge, another trusted partner of the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic, operated in partnership with Indraloka Animal Sanctuary.

Because of recent donor-supported expansions, the clinic had late hours—and could respond immediately.

“It took hours of gentle, careful work to free Gino from nearly a pound of painful matting,” said Dr. Indra Lahiri, PhD, Founder and Executive Director at Indraloka. “But despite his suffering, he trusted us—quiet, still, allowing us to help.”

Gino was hospitalized and is now receiving fluids, medications, and nutrient-dense food. His condition remains fragile, but he is surrounded by love and expert care. And while his original guardian will no longer be able to care for him, they too are receiving support.

“This is what collaboration looks like,” said Dr. Leslie Interlandi, DVM. “A concerned neighbor. Humane Police. Meals on Wheels. Blue Chip. Our veterinary team. And the generous donors who made it possible. Together, we helped not just Gino—but the person who loved him.”

The NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic exemplifies what’s possible when human and animal welfare organizations come together with urgency and compassion. The clinic was created in response to a growing need across the region’s animal welfare community for accessible, affordable veterinary care—but it’s also a reflection of something deeper.

It was human service organizations, like Meals on Wheels of NEPA, that first recognized the inextricable link between the needs of animals and the people who love them.

“Gino’s heartbreaking story underscores the need for collaborative partnerships across sectors,” said Lindsay Skripka, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of NEPA. “The unmet needs of animals and humans is growing, and we need to work together in innovative ways to ensure everyone has access to the help they need.”

To support rescues like Gino’s or learn more about the clinic, visit https://indraloka.org/.  To learn more about Meels on Wheels, visit https://mealsonwheelsnepa.com/