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Volunteers enhance Lacawac Sanctuary as part of the United Way Day of Caring

Haley O'Brien
/
WVIA News
Volunteers spruce up buildings on the property of Lacawac Sanctuary that were built in 1903.

The United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne and Pike recognizes the Nancy Jackson Memorial Day of Caring on August 31st. The annual tradition organizes groups of volunteers to work at local nonprofits for the day. Founded in 1994 by volunteer Nancy Jackson, was named for her after she passed in 2017.

Lacawac Sanctuary in Lake Ariel has several renovation projects underway, and employees from Mitsubishi Chemical in Scranton were there this year to help. They were sprucing up buildings on the property that were built in 1903.

Craig Lukatch is the president of Lacawac Sanctuary.

“So it’s a great concept because these businesses that are participating in the Day of Caring, those employees are giving to The United Way, and then that money goes back into the nonprofits like Lacawac, and we provide the direct services to the public," Lukatch said. "In our case, K to 12 students, providing them with scholarships to participate in our programs. ”

Programs at Lacawac promote getting outside and environmental education.

Haley O'Brien
/
WVIA News
Employees from Mitsubishi Chemical in Scranton volunteered their time at Lacawac Sancturary for the United Way Day of Caring.

Haley loves storytelling through all mediums. She has experience working as a TV, radio and digital journalist. As newscast host during All Things Considered, she brings the news of the day to listeners on weekday afternoons. Sometimes she takes WVIA News on the road to broadcast live from locations like the Pennsylvania Farm Show and Wilkes-Barre’s Fine Arts Fiesta. When reporting, Haley seeks out arts and culture stories and fascinating, talented people to interview about their journeys and perspectives. Check out her gardening segment, PLANT PEOPLE, in which she shares gardening stories, inspiration and tips. Have a story idea for Haley? Send her an email at haleyobrien@wvia.org