By Darla Livermore, Senior Vice President, Director of Human Resource Management, NexTier Bank; Butler Region Local Operating Board member and WLC member, United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania

I’m a lifelong resident of Butler County and I have pride in my hometown. I love the close-knit nature of our community and how we all take care of each other. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the impact women have in our society and how, so often, women are leading the way.

In my 20 years with NexTier Bank, I’ve been blessed to give back through our annual United Way campaign. But more than checking that box and making my donation, as a member of the Butler Region Local Operating Board and Women’s Leadership Council, I’ve had the unique opportunity to see the work in action. I’ve served as our NexTier campaign chair, gone on agency visits, helped plan events and volunteered alongside my coworkers. And let me tell you, the work I’ve witnessed is impressive!

How lucky are we to have an organization like United Way that is so attuned to our changing needs and knows how to create real, lasting change? It goes without saying that the last two years have been difficult for everyone, but I’ve been moved to know that my support, along with the support of my NexTier family and so many others, is truly helping the people who need it most.

Putting the last two years aside (I’m sure we all wish we could really do that!), United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council recently celebrated 20 years of incredible work in our region. From uplifting struggling mothers to fortifying our region’s safety net and protecting the most vulnerable among us, this dynamic group will stop at nothing to improve the lives of people in our communities.

In true WLC fashion, we like our celebrations to have a purpose. This year’s WLC March Mixer & Shopping Crawl is no exception. On March 31, 2022, WLC members and interested community members are invited to gather at the NexTier Bank in Zelienople for a kick-off before hitting Main Street to shop at a curated list of fantastic women-owned businesses. If that’s not enough to get you to join us, here are three reasons to register today:

1. There is no better way to connect with dynamic, like-minded women.
   
   United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s WLC is the third-largest in the nation. Let that sink in for a moment. With more than 2,200 caring members, you are sure to connect with someone who can help you along your journey, offer advice or simply enjoy the evening together. WLC members understand the pressures we all face as women in today’s society and it’s so refreshing to spend time together working towards a common goal.
   
   
   
2. You’ll be supporting women-owned businesses.
   
   This event is shopping – for good! During the WLC March Mixer & Shopping Crawl, attendees will have the opportunity to shop at Zelienople’s finest women-owned businesses. From Boutique 16063 to Eva Bryn Shoetique, The NUE Look At Home, Maddalon Jewelers, The Perfect Piece Home Furnishings, ShuBrew: Handcrafted Ales & Food/General Shu’s and so many more, there will be a store for everyone!
   
   
3. This is an opportunity to learn about United Way’s work and help women in our region. 

   Every time I attend a United Way event, I learn something new. If you’re interested in making a difference or want to learn about the benefits of WLC membership, this is the event for you. Low pressure, all fun! However, the Mixer & Shopping Crawl also gives you the powerful opportunity to help people experiencing domestic violence. All attendees are encouraged to bring a personal care item that will be donated to shelters in Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette and Westmoreland counties. Check out the list of items we’ll be accepting here.

So, the date is set and the event is a win/win. Will I see you on March 31? Invite a friend and register today.