At our first ever STARS of the Valley Awards ceremony, in addition to our five award recipients, we will also be recognizing three local non-profits that are celebrating a significant milestone anniversary in 2025: the Family Service Association of NEPA, celebrating 130 years; S.A.F.E., Inc., celebrating 30 years, and the SHINE After School Program of Luzerne County at Wilkes University, celebrating 10 years. 

Family Service Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania (FSA) is a non-profit, non-sectarian organization that provides diverse services to children, individuals, seniors, and families, empowering them to achieve their full potential through building healthier relationships and stronger communities. Established in 1895 by a group of involved and concerned members of the community, FSA has been built on the dynamic association of a volunteer governing board, a professional staff, and a consumer community.

S.A.F.E., Inc was started 1995, first as the gathering of a small group of families affected by autism to provide support and resources to one another and to the community. Today, the organization has grown exponentially and has expanded to offer a variety of support and services to families and individuals living with an autism diagnosis in NEPA, including knowledge, resources, advocacy, family events, extracurricular activities, and more.

Founded in 2015, the SHINE After School Program of Luzerne County at Wilkes University is a STEAM project-based after school program for students in 1st through 8th grades attending one of the eight participating elementary and middle schools. Students enrolled in the program are offered homework assistance, a hot meal, and participate in a STEAM based project. The program strives to assist students to improve their academic skills, increase attendance, decrease negative behaviors through providing enriching activities in academics, art, music, recreation, and more.

Make sure to join us to celebrate with them and all our award recipients on Friday, July 11^th at our first ever STARS of the Valley Awards at the Westmoreland Club’s Grand Hall!

Tickets are on sale now at: https://business.wyomingvalleychamber.org/chambercalendar/Details/stars-of-the-valley-awards-1319507?sourceTypeId=Website