Submitted photo Volunteers at a previous year’s annual Day of Caring enjoy breakfast at Kishacoquillas Park in Lewistown.

LEWISTOWN — The United Way of Mifflin-Juniata has officially kicked off its 2026 Annual Campaign with a “heartfelt call to action,” aiming to raise $450,000 to support vital human services across Mifflin and Juniata counties.

According to United Way of Mifflin-Junita Executive Director Colette Hartzler, this has been the monetary goal for several years, and last year that goal was almost reached with nearly $429,428 raised.

The campaign launch was “anchored by the community’s powerful demonstration of selfless service,” the annual Day of Caring.

On Sept. 17, volunteers tackled painting projects, built and repaired facilities, and revitalized landscapes at local sites, including community human services agencies, parks, ball fields, townships and playgrounds.

“The Day of Caring is more than just a volunteer event; it’s a living testament to the compassion that binds our communities,” said Colette Hartzler. “A goal of $450,000 may sound ambitious, but I know Mifflin and Juniata residents are caring individuals who are quick to lend a helping hand to their community.”

Money raised through the annual campaign comes through various outlets. A “letter blast” is sent out to various individuals, businesses, and groups requesting a gift. Additionally, the United Way asks businesses to run a workplace campaign where employees can opt to do either a one-time gift or a payroll deduction from their check.

Throughout the year there will also be several events held to climb towards the goal including the Night at the Races event held Jan. 31 at the Kish Innovation Center in Reedsville, the annual golf tournament in May at the Lewistown Country Club, as well as We also try to add an Ugly Sweater day in December.

This year money will once again be raised for the Mifflin Juniata Energy bank through our Walk for Warmth. Historically it was one Walk at Kish Park in Lewistown; but last year a walk in Juniata County was organized and will be done again.

The Mifflin County Walk will be at Kish Park and the Juniata County Walk will be held at the River Church grounds on their walking path. Both Walks will take place Feb. 7.

“The goal for all of these events is the same goal as our mission for United Way here in Mifflin and Juniata County and that is to mobilize our communities to action so all can thrive,” shared Hartzler.

The United Way supports programs in 16 areas. These programs are nonprofit agencies that are reaching kids after school, giving the opportunity for a child who may not be able to attend a whole week of summer camp to do that, or assist and make sure that if someone experiences a fire the Red Cross is there to help. It also helps with living expenses such as gas cards and rent if a person is going through cancer, if someone needs an eye exam and glasses, a place to have that service for a small co-pay, even one on one parenting class for new parents who are expecting.

“This is the work of our agencies and our mission is to make sure they have what they need to do it,” explained Hartzler. “We do not fund whole agencies, just a particular program they have proposed through a grant process to us. It is something that they need to do or want to do and simply do not have the funding alone to do it, this is where the United Way comes in.”

Hartzler said that as they look at the events from previous years they are “imagining ways to bring new aspects to them,” she also expressed that UWMJ is “grateful” to live in a generous area, saying “when there are ligament needs Mifflin and Juniata Counties are there.”

Every dollar raised through the United Way of Mifflin-Juniata stays right here, ensuring that critical programs — from basic needs assistance and youth mentorship to healthcare access and senior services — can continue to uplift and strengthen our neighbors.