United Way Announces New President

Angela Bassani Steps into Role as President & CEO of United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne and Pike

The United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne and Pike is proud to announce that Angela Bassani, Ed.D., CPA, has been appointed as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. A longtime advocate for the community and a dedicated leader, Bassani steps into the role following the distinguished tenure of Gary Drapek, who is retiring after 22 years of service.

With this appointment, Bassani becomes the fifth President in the organization’s more than 100-year history—and the first woman to hold the position.

Bassani brings a wealth of experience to United Way, having been deeply involved in financial management, community impact programs, and higher education. She has worked with United Way for over a decade, most notably leading the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, where she has helped thousands of individuals access critical financial resources. Her leadership in this role has demonstrated her deep commitment to economic stability and empowerment for individuals and families throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.

“I am incredibly honored to step into this role and continue the legacy that Gary Drapek has built,” said Bassani. “Gary has been a mentor and role model to me for years, and I have seen firsthand the incredible work United Way does to uplift our community. I am eager to work alongside our staff, volunteers, donors, and nonprofit partners to ensure that we continue to make a meaningful impact for those who need it most.”

In addition to her nonprofit experience, Bassani holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management from Drexel University, a MBA and Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Scranton, and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Her expertise in financial oversight, grant management, and organizational strategy will be instrumental in leading United Way forward in an ever-changing nonprofit landscape.

A long-time resident of the region, Bassani’s roots run deep in the communities United Way serves. Growing up on the border of Wayne and Pike Counties and making Lackawanna County her home since college, she has always been passionate about giving back to the people and organizations that shaped her. She has also served as an Assistant Teaching Professor of Accounting at Penn State Scranton, where she mentored students and integrated service-learning opportunities into education. Bassani has been involved with the United Way since she was a junior in college and officially assumed the role of President & CEO following Drapek’s retirement last month, ensuring a smooth transition in leadership.  As she embarks on this new chapter, she remains committed to honoring the strong foundation built by her predecessor while also bringing fresh perspectives and strategic vision to United Way’s initiatives.

United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Collaborates on Ground-Breaking Case Study

A newly published case study examining the critical issue of older adult isolation in Lackawanna County has been featured in the esteemed Frontiers in Public Health journal.  The article titled “A community methodological protocol of a multisector collective impact collaboration to address older adult isolation in a rural county in the U.S.,” conducted by The Age Friendly Lackawanna Collaborative which includes the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike, sheds light on the profound impact of social isolation among older adults and highlights actionable solutions to address this growing public health concern. 

Case Study Co-Written By:

  • Dr.  Lenard Kaye, D.S.W, Ph.D., GSAF, Professor, University of Maine, Director at University of Maine Center on Aging
  • Michael Castellano, Special Projects Manager, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike
  • Lindsey Skripka, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels of Northeastern Pennsylvania
  • Christine Marcos, Senior Program Officer, Moses Taylor Foundation

The study explores the challenges faced by older adults who experience limited social interaction, reduced mobility, and a lack of access to essential community resources. Findings indicate that social isolation not only affects emotional well-being but is also linked to significant health risks, including increased rates of depression, cognitive decline, and chronic illness.

“I am so proud to be a member of the Age Friendly Lackawanna collaborative and work with amazing community partners to address the needs of older adults in our community. This publication is just the first step of many we have planned to advocate for and enact the changes we hope to see for the residents of Lackawanna County” said Lindsey Skripka, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels of Northeastern Pennsylvania

Key Findings of the Case Study:

  • A significant percentage of older adults in Lackawanna County report experiencing social isolation and loneliness.
  • Lack of transportation, financial barriers, and limited digital literacy contribute to isolation.
  • Community-based interventions, including volunteer-driven outreach programs and social connectivity initiatives, have shown positive effects in reducing loneliness.

The publication of this study underscores the importance of ongoing community collaboration and policy changes to ensure that older adults receive the support they need to remain engaged and connected. United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike is actively working to implement solutions, including expanding senior outreach programs, strengthening partnerships with local organizations, and advocating for increased funding for social services.

“By publishing these findings in Frontiers in Public Health, we hope to bring greater awareness and encourage local initiatives to foster stronger social connections for our senior population.” added Michael Castellano, Special Projects Manager, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike.

The full study is available in Frontiers in Public Health and can be accessed online at Frontiers in Public Health.