Local Nonprofits Encouraged to Apply for Duquesne Light Company’s Microgrant Program

PITTSBURGH — Duquesne Light Company (DLC) today announced the reopening of its annual Community Impact Grants (CIG) program, which recognizes and awards diverse, grassroot community organizations in Allegheny and Beaver counties with microgrants of up to $10,000 to support efforts in environmental justice, education and social equity. Interested organizations can apply online starting today, July 8, through Aug. 5, 2024.
DLC launched the CIG program in April 2021 to support small nonprofit organizations making lasting positive impacts in the community. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $600,000 to nearly 100 local organizations, about 85% of which are diverse led. In 2023, DLC funded 38 unique projects focusing on food access; reforestation and green spaces; science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) education; access to technology; refugee assistance; and more.
“As an essential service provider, one of DLC’s core values that guides us each and every day is community. We continually invest in initiatives that enhance the quality of life for those we serve,” said Angela Feldbauer, DLC’s manager of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and corporate giving. “This program has enabled DLC to deepen our relationships with diverse, grassroot nonprofits across our service territory, and we’re honored to stand alongside those organizations once again and continue serving as a trusted partner in the Pittsburgh region.”
Success Story
Grow Pittsburgh was one of the first recipients to receive a microgrant from DLC in 2021 to amplify a community garden in Pittsburgh’s Manchester neighborhood. The funding also aided the organization to grow and make a larger impact supporting the Manchester community.
“Grow Pittsburgh is grateful to Duquesne Light Company for the Community Impact Grant in 2021 that helped establish the Manchester Food for the Soul Community Farm,” said Ryan Walsh, Grow Pittsburgh’s director of development and communications. “This garden has become a treasured source of healthy free food for the neighborhood, and we greatly appreciate DLC’s financial support as well as volunteer support to make this happen.”
 
How to Apply
This year’s CIG program will once again fund efforts in environmental justice, education and social equity, specifically:
  • Community gardens; park upgrades and restorations; and climate resilience.
  • K-12 education in the areas of STEAM; access or increased access to technology and equipment for educational programming or capacity building.
  • Housing, racial equality, refugee assistance and access to food for historically disenfranchised communities.
To be considered for a microgrant, organizations must:
  • Be a 501(c)3 nonprofit or state equivalent, or an organization receiving fiscal sponsorship from a registered 501(c)3 or state equivalent.
  • Meet DLC’s Charitable Giving program guidelines listed in the program’s FAQs.
  • Serve residents in Allegheny and/or Beaver counties.
  • Have an annual operating budget equal to or less than $500,000 and/or a specific targeted project. Organizations with larger budgets that are not applying on behalf of a smaller nonprofit or community group will not be considered for a microgrant.
Funding should not be used for capital campaigns or overhead expenses including rent, employee salaries, insurance or utility support.
All applications will be reviewed by a committee of DLC employees, with final decisions being communicated to applicants within six weeks of the submission deadline. Organizations that receive a microgrant will be listed on DLC’s website and promoted on social media.
To learn more about the program and application process, visit DuquesneLight.com/CIG.
More details about DLC’s broader community programs can be found in the company’s 2023 ESG report.

Blood and platelet donors critically needed in July

This July, the American Red Cross continues to stress that blood and platelet donors are critically needed right now to support lifesaving transfusions this summer. Donors of all blood types are in demand, especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets.

 

Every donation counts in the mission to keep blood products stocked for patients, including those facing life-threatening situations. More than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room cases, highlighting the importance of generous blood and platelet donors. Be a force for good. Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.  

 

The Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of TWISTERS to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who come to give blood or platelets July 1-31 will get a Fandango Movie Ticket* by email. Plus, those who come to give by July 14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind TWISTERS and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last. BONUS: Those who come to give blood in July will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn®. See RedCrossBlood.org/Twisters for full details. 

 

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

Beaver County Chamber’s Monday Memo: 07/08/24

You plan your summer travels, so plan your summer networking!

Date: Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Location: Rochester Boat Ramp

FEES:

Member: $85

Non-Member: $100

Set sail with your local and state officials when you join us for an evening aboard the Gateway Clipper right here in Beaver County. This is a great opportunity to network with legislators and fellow Chamber members as we cruise and dine on the Ohio River.

Sponsorship Opportunities

*If you are interested in any sponsorships, please contact Molly Suehr at msuehr@bcchamber.com or call 724.906.4286.

Register Today: July 17th Legislative Cruise

Ribbon Cutting on July 10th

Join us on July 10th for the Ribbon Cutting of Ginger Gardens, as they celebrate a year and a half in business and the launch of their Ginger Gardens Bouquet Subscriptions!

There is a FREE bouquet bar for attendees at this event!

Application Deadline July 31st + More Details Here
View Full Event Calendar
View all event photos
Submit your member news to msuehr@bcchamber.com
CCBC Community Day

Join CCBC for their 2024 Community Day on Saturday, July 20th from 10 am – 2 pm.

Learn more here.

2024 Bouquet Subscription with Ginger Gardens

Pick up a fresh Ginger Gardens flower bouquet every other week! Sign up for the summer subscription or 2024 (rest of the year) subscription.

Learn more here.

BCCHA’s 28th Annual Golf Outing on August 17th

You are invited to assist Beaver County Cancer & Heart Association in sponsoring the 28th Annual Golf

Outing on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at The Beaver Valley Golf Club, Patterson Township. This outing serves as a means of raising money and awareness to benefit the Beaver County Cancer & Heart Association.

Learn more here.

BEAVER RIVER BRIDGE UPDATE

Fay, S&B USA Construction is proud to work in the Beaver community on the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s largest ($270M) contract to build two new 1,600 ft. long, 3-lane each, bridges replacing the current Beaver River Bridge and reconfiguring the I-76/SR-18 interchange. Upon westbound bridge completion, westbound traffic will be switched while the eastbound bridge is finished. Once the eastbound structure is completed and eastbound traffic switched, the original structure will be demolished. 210 employees will work full-time at peak.

Visit our website for more information!

Seminar: 9 Steps To Having Amazing Teen Skin

As children transition into their teenage years, they experience physical changes, including the onset of puberty. Establishing a healthy skin care routine early provides benefits of maintaining clear, vibrant skin while instilling a love of lifelong habits of self-care.

 

At Kaye Natural Beauty, our licensed esthetician has some practical tips and advice to help teenagers navigate this important aspect of their personal care.

 

Link to Get Tickets: KayeNaturalBeauty.com

Scroll to Events

 

This seminar is for Pre-Teens and Teens.

Are you looking to get involved with the

Beaver County Chamber?

Consider joining our Events Committee!

This committee is responsible for working directly with Chamber staff to determine and plan programming and events for the year as well as reviewing the effectiveness of current events and programming. Committee members should help to further the Chamber’s strategies

by providing business community insights and ideas to staff to collaborate on strategies and events. In addition to this committee, subcommittees are established for each signature event – such as the

Annual Gala and Golf Outing to assist the staff directly in executing these larger events and include more members in the process.

Interested in connecting and learning more? Contact Molly Suehr.

Now Hiring! Want to see a list of job postings from members? Don’t forget to add your own posting to the job postings portal on our website.
Jobs Portal
In need of a product or service?
Head to our full membership directory available on
our website, where you will find a trusted partner to
do business with today.
Membership Directory
Beaver County Chamber of Commerce
724.775.3944
525 3rd Street, 2nd Floor
Beaver, PA 15009
Linkedin  Facebook  Instagram  Youtube
Beaver County Chamber of Commerce | 525 Third Street 2nd Floor | Beaver, PA 15009-2132 US

Olga Fitzgerald (September 25, 1934 – July 2, 2024)

On July 2, 2024, Olga (Jasek) Fitzgerald peacefully went home to be with the Lord. She was 89 years old.
Olga was born September 25, 1934, in West Aliquippa and is the daughter of the late Ciprian and Sophie (Olack) Jasek. In addition to her parents, she was welcomed by her beloved husband, Ralph E. Fitzgerald, a son, Eddie Ralph Fitzgerald, a daughter, Marlene Fitzgerald Stenger, three sisters: Mary Katus, Betty Hopkins and Helen Pruzinsky and her son-in-law Edward Peters.
Olga is a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, Saints Frances Cabrini Church, Center Twp.
She retired from Central Valley School District having worked in the cafeteria and the Latch Key program at the school.
Olga cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She beamed with pride when she attended various activities for sports, band or any function her grandchildren participated in. She enjoyed taking them camping and has left each of them with many special memories to cherish.
Olga is survived by her devoted daughter and son: Barbara Peters, Dave Fitzgerald and his wife Carol, who Olga loved like a daughter.
Her grandchildren who showered her with much joy: Bobbie Jo, David, Michelle, Jennifer, Carrie, Matthew, Brian, Ashlee, Kellie Jo and numerous great grandchildren who were also showered by Olga’s love. In addition to her children and grandchildren Olga leaves behind a sister, Sophie Laurito and a brother and sister-in-law: John (Shirley) Jasek and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Friday, July 5, 2024, from 9:30 am until time of blessing service at 10:00 am in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Until we meet again, In Olga’s words…..”Okey Dokey, Be Careful”

Tina Marie Kamicker (February 27, 1973 – July 2, 2024)

Tina Kamicker, 51, of New Brighton died Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Born February 27, 1973, in Akron, Oh, a daughter of Charlotte (Wagner) Fleming and the late Roger Burchell.  She loved being an aunt, loved her in-laws like siblings, and she had a passion for Rock Music.

She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Gregory Kamicker

Tina is survived by her wife, Faith Kamicker; three daughters, Destiny (Joel) Stoner, Alisha Whelan, Brittany Whelan (James Kamicker); an aunt, Linda Bauer.  Also surviving her is her favorite uncle Mark Wagner (Jun).

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the New Brighton Croatian Club, starting at Noon.

Nancy C. Gibbs. (February 05, 1931 – July 04, 2024)

Nancy C. (Netherland) Gibbs, 93, of Beaver, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Heritage Valley – Beaver.

Born on February 5, 1931, in Beaver, she was the daughter of the late George and Margaret (Boyd) Netherland.

Nancy had been a Pre-School Assistant at First Presbyterian Church in Beaver for many years.  She was a devout Catholic and was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish.  In her free time, Nancy was known to be immersed in a good book, taking her dog for walks around town, and volunteering at the Beaver Library.  She was also a talented artist, sharing her work with those she loved.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy L. Gibbs; and her siblings, George Netherland, William Netherland, and Christy Netherland.

She is survived by her daughters, Christie Denillo, Stacie Gibbs, Pamela (Greg) Richmond, and Carie (Steve Nemec) Booher; 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, July 9th from 6-8PM at the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third St., Beaver.

Prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Wednesday at 9:30AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM at Sts. Peter & Paul Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, 200 Third Street, Beaver, with Fr. Howard Campbell as celebrant.

Interment will be in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies with her beloved husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver Area Memorial Library, 100 College Ave., Beaver, PA 15009.

Michael T. Cunningham (Died July 4, 2024)

Michael T. “Cunzy” Cunningham, 66, a lifelong resident of Monaca passed away on the 4th of July, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and spirited camaraderie that touched all who knew him. Mike’s education began having attended St. John the Baptist Elementary School and graduating from Monaca High School with the class of 1975. He continued his education at Penn State University where he earned an Associate degree.

Mike’s professional life was marked by a successful career as a sales representative for various financial institutions. His personal interests included the joy of playing duck pins at St. John’s lanes and the competitive spirit of golfing on the PNA League. However, it was his unwavering dedication to his family, particularly to his girls and their endeavors, that truly defined the essence of his character.

Mike’s life was enriched by a loving family. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Nancy Snedden Cunningham, who stood by his side as a partner and confidante through every chapter of their lives together. Their love blossomed into a beautiful family with the birth of their daughter Alysia, who, along with her daughters Alexis and Riley, brought immeasurable joy and pride to Mike. He was a cherished member of a larger family network that included his brothers-in-law Tony (Deb) Petersen, Robert Snedden, and Richard (Jane) Snedden, and sister-in-law Debbie (Randy) Ruff. He also leaves numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of friends who were like an extended family to him.

As we remember the lives of those who preceded him in death. His mother Vivian Stauffer, brother Lewis Headley, grandmother Veronica Stauffer, mother-in-law Alice Snedden Casciato, brother-in-law Bill Snedden, niece Sherry T. Petersen, Uncle Dan and Aunt Norma Stauffer, Uncle Andy and Aunt Helen Stauffer and Aunt Alice and Uncle Andrew Bacha,  all played significant roles in his life.

His absence will be felt at the duck pins lanes, on the golf course, and most deeply within the hearts of his family, who will continue to live out the values he instilled in them.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, July 9th from 2 -4pm and 6 -8pm with a service to follow at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. Interment will take place at St  John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery

The family wishes to thank Michael and Kelli Headley, Tom and Ronnie Eck and Dave Powers for the dedicated and compassionate care they provided  Mike during his declining health..

To share online condolences, view Mike’s video tribute, add photos and get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Jean Yute (December 1, 1940 – July 3, 2024)

Patricia Jean Yute, 83, of Brighton Twp., passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Born December 1, 1940 in New Brighton, she was a daughter of the late John and Marjorie Morrow Armour. Patricia, Graduate of New Brighton H.S, Beaver Valley Hospital, and Slippery Rock University, retired following a long career as a registered nurse (BSN), and was a faithful member of Vanport Presbyterian Church, Vanport Twp. She will be remembered most as a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother.

Patricia will be greatly missed by her husband of 61 years, Homer F. Yute, Brighton Twp.; son, Douglas H. (Cindy) Yute, Wisconsin; brother, John (a.k.a Tom) W. (Delores) Armour, South Carolina; grandchildren, Justin, Heather, and Katelyn; and great-grandson, Nathan.

In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her sister, Judith Armour Moore.

Friends will be received Monday July 8, 2024 in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009 from 2pm until the time of service at 4pm. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Mary Matsukas Whan (February 16, 1932 ~ July 5, 2024)

Mary Matsukas Whan, 92, passed away on July 5, 2024 in Winter Park, FL. She was born to the late John and Archontula (Fasilis) Panutsos in Ambridge, Pennsylvania. Before relocating to Florida in 2017, Mary was a resident of Chippewa Twp in Beaver Falls, PA.

She was very active in the Greek Orthodox Church and was also a member of many organizations including the Beaver County Business and Career Women’s Club, Eastern Star, the Philotas’s Society, as well as a member of the church choir, and past president, serving two terms, for the Ladies Auxiliary at church

She married Dr. Nicholas Matsukas. Her first child, Tula, was born prematurely, and Mary worked diligently with Tula’s special needs while raising 2 other children. She was a committed mother, grandmother, and wife who gave strength to her children and grandchildren through tireless encouragement.  She was creative, resourceful and resilient.

Mary created “Mary’s Fashions”, a women’s clothing shop, out of her basement and eventually moved the business to a storefront. In this business, she helped many local women find suitable clothing to meet their needs.

She later married Dr. Glenn Whan. They enjoyed traveling to exotic and fun places until, as she phrased it, her best friend passed away in 2003.

 

She is preceded in death by her parents, a sister (Kay), brother (Gus), husbands (Nicholas Matsukas and Glenn Whan) and her daughter, Tula Marie. She is survived by her daughter, Jeanine (John) Ballinger of Winter Springs, Florida, son, Steve (Tina) Matsukas of Oakton, Virginia, step-daughter, Cindy (John) Simons and stepson, David Whan of Hendersonville, NC , along with grandchildren Shawn Majzlik, Isobel and Nicholas Matsukas, Aidan, Avery, Cameron and Reagan Simons.

Friends are welcome to attend a visitation that will be held from 6-8 pm Friday, July 12, 2024 at Hill and Kunselman Funeral Home, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 10 am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge, PA.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions go to Merakey AVS: Development Department, Merakey Allegheny Valley School, 1996 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108

or Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge PA 15003-1418

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Matsukas Whan, please visit our floral store.