CANTON, OHIO (September 10, 2026) – United Way of Greater Stark County today announced the
expansion of its Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families programming into four additional schools and
launched it’s $4.25 million annual campaign during its Annual Report to the Community, presented by
Employers Health. The event brought together workplace and community partners, volunteers, elected
officials and other community leaders to reflect on the past year and look ahead.
Built around a pep-rally theme, the event celebrated the release of United Way’s latest annual report and
highlighted the organization’s priorities for the year ahead. Employers Health served as presenting
sponsor of the event, and Innis Maggiore donated the development and design of the annual report.
“This event gives us a chance to recognize what our community accomplished together and to be clear
about where we are going next,” said Angela Perisic, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Stark
County. “Expanding Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families means more families will have a trusted
connection to support right where they already are.”
STRONG NEIGHBORHOODS, STRONG FAMILIES EXPANDS
Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families is a direct-service program of United Way of Greater Stark County
that connects families with young children to practical support through their school communities. Based
on each school community’s needs, that support may include basic-needs assistance, transportation and
food resources, parenting support, family engagement opportunities and connections to other community
services.
This school year, United Way is expanding SNSF into four additional buildings: Alliance Elementary School,
Massillon West Elementary School, and Summit and Youtz elementary schools in the Canton City School
District. The expansion supports the organization’s broader strategy to lessen or prevent the effects of
Adverse Childhood Experiences during early childhood, from birth through age 8, for families living below
the federal poverty level in Stark and Carroll counties. Through SNSF, United Way aims to strengthen family
support, deepen community partnerships and create greater opportunity for children and families.
“Expanding Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families means more families will have someone they know
and trust helping them find the right support,” said Renee Leohner, United Way’s Strong Neighborhoods,
Strong Families Director. “That connection can make it easier to address challenges earlier and help
children and families build greater stability.”
The event featured Dr. Walter Iwanenko, president of Gannon University. Dr. Iwanenko works closely with
United Way of Erie County, whose community schools models shares several principles with United Way
of Greater Stark County’s Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families work.
Dr. Iwanenko spoke about the importance of cross-sector collaboration, meeting families where they are
and the shared role businesses, nonprofits, educators, government and community leaders play in
creating stronger communities.
A CALL TO STEP UP
The Annual Report to the Community also launched United Way’s annual campaign, inviting individuals,
businesses and community partners to invest in the work ahead. This year’s campaign goal is $4.25
million.
“A gift to United Way does more than support one program,” said Brent and Stefanie Fatzinger, this year’s
Annual Campaign Co-Chairs. “It helps make Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families possible while also
supporting the programs, partnerships and services United Way bring to Stark and Carroll counties. This is
an invitation for our community to step up together.”
About United Way of Greater Stark County: United Way of Greater Stark County builds community
capacity to alleviate the impact of poverty and empower families to unleash their potential. Through
school-based programming and community partnerships, United Way connects children and families with
resources that help build skills, strengthen relationships and provide immediate economic support.
Media Contact:
Carrie Clemens
Chief Advancement Officer
United Way of Greater Stark County
Phone: (330) 491-9974
Email: [email protected]