United Way Launches 2026 Campaign on Chautauqua Lake

For the first time, the United Way of Chautauqua County's annual campaign kicked off with a "celebration at sea." United Way officials, staff and volunteers rode out to the middle of Chautauqua Lake on the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry on Wednesday to begin the effort, which has a goal of $1.7 million. One of the campaign's co-chairs is Danielle Patti of Jamestown. She explained the significance of using the historic ferry as this year's kickoff site...

Danielle Patti: fitting place for kickoff

The other co-chair, David Maternowski of Dunkirk, says he first learned about the United Way 40 years ago. But now he has a greater understanding of what the agency does and its importance to the community...

David Maternowski: jumping back in again

The campaign runs through the end of the year and will entail volunteer committees overseeing the fundraising effort. UWCHQ Executive Director Amy Rohler says the money raised will support 46 programs at 38 partner agencies.

Photo by the United Way of Chautauqua County