Lisa Minich to Receive 2014 Red Feather Award

The United Way of the Bradford Area will honor Lisa Minich with the Red Feather volunteer award at a luncheon on Thursday, May 1, officials announced today.

“Lisa is the perfect example of ‘once they’re in, they’re in for life,’ said Executive Director Mandi Wilton Davis. “She began her volunteer efforts as a member of the campaign cabinet back in the mid-1980’s, and when family and work obligations required her to step back from her campaign involvement, she remained a constant advocate. She re-joined the campaign cabinet in 2011 as co-chair of the Leadership Division, which this year saw a 17% increase in contributions,” said Davis.

The Red Feather award was implemented to honor outstanding individuals and/or businesses who have made an impact on United Way, and the local community as a whole, through their day-to-day selfless attitude and commitment to exemplify the organization’s mission of enhancing the quality of life in the greater Bradford area.

Minich, a Bradford native, started her career with KOA Speer Electronics in 1989 as a Programmer/Analyst and has held positions of I.S. Manager and General Manager. In 2012 Lisa was named Vice President of Operations and Logistics, a position that exemplifies her strong work ethic and leadership skills.

What initially drew her to the local United Way is what continues to drive her efforts today; giving back. “Growing up one of eight children, I learned early on the value of hard work and sacrifice. My parents never let our financial struggles overshadow the importance of helping others,” said Minich. “My dad, who recently passed away at the age of 93, was the most selfless person I knew. He was and continues to be the driving force behind my desire to make a difference in the Bradford community.”

Minich also serves on the board of the YMCA and is Chair of the Y’s Annual Campaign, and is also Team Captain of KOA’s Relay for Life team and a member of the 2014 Leadership McKean class.

Steve Williams, President of the Board, said this honor is well-deserved.

“Lisa has been - and will continue to be - a tremendous advocate and contributor to the successes of the local United Way, and we, as a Board, are appreciative of her commitments.”

“I’m blessed to be at a point in my life where I have the time, energy and resources to give back to the Bradford community at a leadership level,” said Minich. “Bradford is a town with many needs, but also a town with big hearts. I’m proud to live in a community where so many come together to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Minich resides in Bradford, and has two adult sons, Brian (Megan) and Dan.

The Red Feather luncheon will be held in the Mukaiyama University Room at the University of Pittsburgh Bradford, beginning at 12:00 pm. The cost is $25 per person, and reservations may be made through April 21st by calling Mandi Wilton Davis at 368-6181 or emailing mandi.davis@uwbanews.org.

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