Western Lehigh Community Grant

The Western Lehigh Community Grant Information

Empowering Our Community: WLCC’s Community Grants

The Western Lehigh Chamber of Commerce (WLCC), a regional branch of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce (GLVCC), is honored to continue the legacy of two dedicated board members, Sophie Gerhard and Edwin Adamczak. In their memory, we are offering Community Grants to support non-profit organizations making a difference in South Whitehall Township, Upper Macungie Township, and the Wescosville area.

These grants are designed to uplift organizations committed to enhancing the lives of local residents and driving positive change in our community. Eligible non-profits must demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to the betterment of the WLCC area. Applications will be evaluated based on the project’s purpose, use of funds, and overall impact. Organizations must also provide proof of non-profit status and a list of board members.

For any inquiries or to request a physical copy of the Community Grant application, please contact John Hemak, Grant Committee Chair, at [email protected] or 610-709-5666.

Eligible applicants for the Western Lehigh Chamber of Commerce (WLCC) Community Grants must meet the following criteria:

Be a non-profit organization with proof of non-profit status.
Operate within and directly benefit the communities of South Whitehall Township, Upper Macungie Township, and the Wescosville area.
Have a mission focused on improving the lives of local residents and enhancing the community.
Provide a clear description of how the grant funds will be used for a specific project or initiative.

Click here for the 2026 Community Grant Application!

Sophie Gerhard

Edwin V. Adamczak

A realtor, artist, seamstress and equestrian. Originally from Rhode Island elected the first woman State Representative and named Mrs. Rhode Island. Sophie was licensed as a Pennsylvania Realtor in 1978. During her 30-year career, she worked for the prominent companies of Brookhaven Realty as a manager and Patt White Realtors focusing on the Luxury Home Market. Sophie-Mar Country Estates in Allentown was developed by Sophie.

Her association with the Chamber began with the Wescosville Businessmen’s Association, a precursor to the Western Lehigh Chamber of Commerce.

Ed Adamczak, a Korean War Veteran, had a 41-year career with Western Electric/AT&T/Lucent Technologies, retiring in 2000 as Community Relations Manager for the Allentown and Breinigsville facilities. He served as president of several local organizations, including the Lehigh Valley Hospital Board of Associates and the Boys Club of Allentown.

Ed was also a key figure in the founding of the Western Lehigh Businessmen’s Association, which later became the Western Lehigh Chamber of Commerce. Ed later passed away in 2009 and is honored through the annual Community Grants in his and Sophie's memory.

2025 Community Grant Recipients

Girls on the Run

GOTR empowers girls in 3rd–8th grade to build confidence, develop healthy habits, and strengthen social-emotional skills through a research-based curriculum that combines physical activity with life lessons.

Funds from the WLCC grant will help bring Girls on the Run (GOTR) to students at Wescosville, Cetronia, Orefield, and Springhouse schools. We also plan to expand to Fogelsville and/or Veterans Memorial Elementary. This support ensures that every girl who wants to participate can—regardless of her family’s income.

Greenawalds Fire Department

Greenawalds Fire / Rescue is a 100% Volunteer Fire Department located in South Whitehall Township, Lehigh County, PA. Comprised of about 75 active members, Greenawalds (Station 11) is one of three stations in South Whitehall Township. In addition to general fire suppression responsibilities, we are also responsible for all rescue operations within the confines of the 17.1 square mile township. We operate out of a single station which houses 2 Engines, a Certified Advanced Heavy Rescue Truck, Tanker, and a Squad.

This grant was used to adopted families and children in need, partnering with local schools, churches, and community members to identify those who could use some extra holiday magic. These families receive wrapped gifts, holiday meals, and gift cards—all made possible through generous donations and the kindness of our fire department members.

Center for Humanistic Change

Center for Humanistic Change provides prevention education, student mentoring, and life skills training for residents of the Lehigh Valley. These grant funds were used to help CHC deliver about 3 days of simulation programs in the Parkland High School. CHC works in collaboration with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), who provides 4 simulators, to provide area schools and their high school students with the driving under the influence (DUI) simulation experience and an impaired driving course and a distracted driving (cellphones) course. Students use the “impaired” goggles to walk a straight line and participate in games that require coordination, and provide the opportunity to discuss how drugs (including marijuana) and alcohol affect cognition and coordination. We also provide an information table with pamphlets about consequences of driving impaired, binge drinking, what to do if a friend drinks too much, etc. where staff are available to answer questions.

2024 Community Grant Recipients

Good Will Fire Company

Good Will Fire Company #1 of Trexlertown has been proudly serving Upper Macungie Township since 1916. Staffed entirely by volunteers, the company maintains the highest standards in providing essential services to the community. Visitors are encouraged to explore the site to learn more about the fire company's history, services, and volunteer opportunities, many of which do not involve running into a burning building. The fire company is dedicated to serving the residents of Upper Macungie Township and is always open to answering questions about their services, events, or fire safety.

Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center

The Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center is dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families across the region. They offer a range of services including educational resources, social programs, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the quality of life for those with Down syndrome. The center is committed to promoting inclusion, providing valuable connections to local resources, and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. Visit the center to learn more about their programs, events, and how you can get involved in supporting this amazing community.

Jewish Family Services of the Lehigh Valley

Jewish Family Services of the Lehigh Valley has been a pillar of support for individuals and families in the community, working to ensure that no one experiences hunger, isolation, or emotional distress. Since its inception, the organization has been committed to providing a wide range of services aimed at improving the well-being of residents in the Lehigh Valley. Their team, composed of compassionate professionals and volunteers, is dedicated to helping individuals find the support they need in times of crisis. Visitors are encouraged to explore their website to learn more about their programs, volunteer opportunities, and how Jewish Family Services continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.