It’s a fundraising number the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley has never seen in its 105-year existence. Eric Carlson, president of “Joe” Dickey Electric, and his wife, Bethany, served as 2023 campaign co-chairs and helped bring in more than $3.7 million for the organization.
The Carlsons have been involved with United Way for years. Eric has been active with the campaign committee and as a board member. Bethany works with United Way’s education programming – Success By 6, Success After 6 and Care Closets at area schools.
“We truly are blessed to live in the Mahoning Valley. We are so proud of this valley for helping to raise this money for such an incredible organization,” Eric said.
Coming soon: Volunteer resource center
Eric also leads the committee for the new volunteer resource center currently being built on Market Street in Boardman. United Way secured a $1.5 million federal grant for the 12,000-square-foot building, which is set to open this summer. It will be used for storage and allow more space for volunteers to engage in programs.
The Carlsons say they’re honored to have been the 2023 United Way co-chairs, and the money raised shows that the Mahoning Valley is invested in supporting the most vulnerable.
“We want to say ‘thank you’ to all the donors, our campaign committee, event chairs, the United Way board and amazing staff. And a special thanks to my friends and peers in the building trades industry who very generously answered the call and gave to the campaign,” Eric said.
“Joe” Dickey Electric is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.