United Way of Greater Lehigh Valley recently appointed Bethlehem Area School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Joseph Roy, as chairman.

His newest role will involve the creation of new opportunities to better the health, safety and education of everyone in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon counties.

“At United Way, we are intimately involved in addressing poverty, hunger, access to health care and safe, affordable housing. In my role as superintendent, I see the direct impact of these social issues on our young people,” Roy said.

“We want students to grow up with equitable opportunities. United Way creates those opportunities and makes them accessible to a larger range of students.”

United Way strives to raise funds and invest in the type of programs that will help them accomplish its goals.

According to UWGLV, its mission is to provide the leadership, convene the partnerships, and develop the resources and solutions that improve our community. We remain committed to these goals and sincerely appreciate the continued support of partners, program providers and donors throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Other goals of the organization include, increasing the number of third-graders reading on grade level, decrease the number of food insecure residents and increase the number of seniors whose basic needs are met at home. Roy’s experience with leading the sixth-largest school district in Pennsylvania has prepared him to take on his newest role as chair.