SCRANTON — Saint Joseph’s Center is extending heartfelt thanks to the community for the overwhelming generosity and enthusiasm shown during this year’s 28th Go Joe Bike Ride, WNEP Telethon, and 64th Annual Summer Festival.
In a letter to the editor, Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM, along with Auxiliary Co-Presidents Suzanne McGrath and Mauri Olivetti, said the support from across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania was “overwhelming” and vital to the mission of the organization, which has been serving the region’s most vulnerable since 1888.
Each summer, WNEP-TV meteorologist Joe Snedeker embarks on his multi-day Go Joe Bike Ride to raise awareness and funds for Saint Joseph’s Center. Along the way, Snedeker and the WNEP team are greeted by cheering crowds and generous donors. This year’s route once again brought him through communities in Schuylkill County, where residents cheered him on and made contributions to the cause. “The residents and clients who rely on our services are affirmed by the dedication of Joe and WNEP to ensure they have the best life possible,” the letter read.
For nearly five decades, WNEP-TV has also produced the annual Telethon, sharing stories that highlight the impact of Saint Joseph’s Center’s work. This year’s event once again showcased the compassion and commitment of staff and volunteers, while inspiring viewers to contribute.
The celebration concluded with the Summer Festival, held July 25–27 on the campus of Marywood University. Hundreds attended to enjoy food, games, and community camaraderie. Organizers praised the Marywood staff for managing parking and campus safety, and thanked the Festival Committee, Auxiliary members, and volunteers for their hard work in making the event a success.
Founded in 1888 by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saint Joseph’s Center provides a wide range of services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The organization credits its longevity and impact to the dedication of neighbors, benefactors, and volunteers who have supported its mission for more than 137 years.
“Over these 137 years, the concern for the most vulnerable among us has enabled so many to reach for their God-given potential,” the letter stated. “We are grateful for the blessings entrusted to us.”
Full Letter to the Editor:
Dear Editor,On behalf of those who directly benefit, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who generously and enthusiastically supported the 28th Go Joe Bike Ride, WNEP Telethon, and Summer Festival. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for all who contribute and volunteer to ensure the success of each event.
Throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania, Joe Snedeker, WNEP-TV meteorologist, and the entire WNEP team were warmly welcomed by crowds ready to cheer him on for his annual bike ride as well as support the mission of Saint Joseph’s Center. The residents and clients who rely on our services are affirmed by the dedication of Joe and WNEP to ensure they have the best life possible. As Joe often says, “It is a great day to be alive and the rest is up to you.” Friends from Northeastern and Central PA made sure every day will be a great day for those assisted by the services of Saint Joseph’s Center.
For nearly 50 years, WNEP-TV has produced our annual Telethon, which shows how your generous support impacts individual lives. With love and concern for each individual and their family, these stories remind us of what is possible when dedicated people come together for a common cause. The Telethon also allows us to highlight the compassion and commitment of the Saint Joseph’s Center staff.
On the last weekend of July, the 64th Annual Summer Festival was held on the beautiful campus of Marywood University. We are especially grateful to their staff who managed parking and campus safety so well. Under the direction of the Saint Joseph’s Center Auxiliary, Festival Committee, and staff, hundreds came to enjoy delicious food, purchase treasures, play games, and spend time with family, friends, and neighbors. We appreciate all who volunteered and attended the Summer Festival. It continues to be the area’s best backyard picnic.
Since the foundation of Saint Joseph’s Center in 1888, neighbors, volunteers, benefactors, staff, and Sisters of IHM have created a community of loving support for residents, clients, and their families. Over these 137 years, the concern for the most vulnerable among us has enabled so many to reach for their God-given potential. We are grateful for the blessings entrusted to us.
Sincerely,
Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM
Suzanne McGrath and Mauri Olivetti
Auxiliary Co-Presidents