Women over age 50 are the fastest-growing share of employed people in the United States. Citing those statistics, Pennsylvania Women Work is taking steps to encourage the trend.
To support PWW’s efforts, the Champions in Action program of financial group Citizens, along with Trib Total Media, has delivered a $50,000 grant to support the Next Chapter Careers initiative of the workforce development organization.
Mark Rendulic, Pittsburgh market president for Citizens, presented PWW executive director Kristin Ioannou with the check Thursday.
“It’s an important piece of work you do,” he said at the ceremony, held at PWW’s office in Bloomfield. “It’s something that we believe is really important.”
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Founded more than 30 years ago, PWW serves state residents — and not exclusively women — with a number of programs to help them find employment. Their services range from career coaching to mentorship programs to more intensive workshops and more.
Ioannou said that the organization has helped more than 75,000 people in its history.
In remarks at the event, she said that PWW “focuses on supporting women as they travel through the journey of looking for a new job, whether they have recently become unemployed, maybe they pause in their career or maybe they were unexpectedly downsized.”
Mark Rendulic, Citizens Pittsburgh market president, and Kristin Ioannou, executive director of Pennsylvania Women Work, display a $50,000 check during the Champions in Action grant event on Thursday, Jan. 22. (Massoud Hossaini | TribLive)
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From recent high school graduates to executives with decades of experience, PWW has seen the width and breadth of the workforce.
“What makes us different is that we have a one-on-one, individualized approach,” she said.
Ioannou told the story of a woman she called Mary, whom she had met at a recent event. Mary is an executive who had worked more than 30 years with the same company, loved her job and intended to retire there — until her entire division was outsourced and she was downsized.
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“To say she was devastated is an understatement,” Ioannou said. “When women like Mary come to our organization, what they find is a community of people who really support them through the process.”
Shanyn Winnowski is manager of participant learning at PWW, where she provides career coaching to incoming clients.
“Our participants reach out through our website and sign up for a coaching call. So each day I speak to different participants,” she said. “I just let them start talking, tell me anything they feel I need to know.”
After hearing the new clients’ stories, she provides recommendations for different paths and services that the organization can offer. “Every meeting is different. Every interaction is different.”
She’s spoken to women who received college degrees, dropped out of the workforce to start families and then had to re-enter years later by choice or necessity; women who have been in careers for a long time and are forced to change paths for any number of reasons; and women who are looking at the prospect of job hunting for the first time at the age of 50 or over.
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Older women are a large percentage of the population Winnowski sees, and “I have a soft spot for them because I see so much success in what they’ve already done.”
In addition to the $50,000 grant, the Champions in Action honorees receive volunteer support from Citizens. The Champions in Action program has existed for 24 years and has granted more than $12 million to organizations with annual budgets of under $5 million.
“We are proud to join Citizens in honoring PA Women Work’s commitment to empowering women,” said Jennifer Bertetto, president and CEO of Trib Total Media. “With programs like Next Chapter Careers, PA Women Work is helping to ensure more women have the tools, confidence, and connections to take the next step toward long-term self-sufficiency and thrive in today’s workforce.”
“Today, in particular, workforce development is a major initiative for us,” said Rendulic, the Citizens executive. “The connectivity to the health of the economy, which is important to us, and the health of the community is a kind of natural connection.”
Pennsylvania Women Work’s website is pawomenwork.org.
With energy affordability and reliability dominating headlines, state lawmakers peppered Pennsylvania Environmental Protection Secretary Jessica Shirley about the administration’s strategy to speed the addition of new power sources to the electric grid. Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee asked Thursday about the administration’s plans to ensure Pennsylvanians’ lights stay on as the commonwealth courts tech […]
Some Pennsylvania towns make it easy to feel included within a day of arriving. In Lititz, summer concerts at Lititz Springs Park turn into informal reunions, with families setting up lawn chairs side by side and local shop owners joining once they lock their doors for the evening. In Boiling Springs, the path around Children’s Lake doubles as a daily check-in point where walkers greet each other by name before drifting into the cafés along Front Street. And in Ligonier, the Diamond and its bandstand pull residents downtown for markets and community events that rely on volunteers rather than outside organizers. The same pattern carries through the rest of the towns on our list.
Lititz
Lititz, Pennsylvania: Exterior view of the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, via George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com
Lititz is in Lancaster County, about 6 miles north of the city of Lancaster. Founded in 1756, the town was named after a castle in Bohemia and initially served as a Moravian congregation settlement. Lititz is home to the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, established in 1861 as the first commercial pretzel bakery in the United States.
4th of July Parade in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Editorial credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com.
Lititz Springs Park, a historic community hub since 1756, hosts various yearly events, notably the well-known Lititz Fourth of July Celebration. For dining, the Appalachian Brewing Company provides locally brewed beers and a distinctive menu showcasing regional dishes. The Wilbur Chocolate Factory, a landmark since the late 1800s, includes a museum and shop where visitors can explore chocolate-making processes and buy unique confections.
Boiling Springs
A historical building in Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania.
Boiling Springs, in Cumberland County, owes its name to the natural artesian springs that maintain a constant temperature and were crucial to early ironworks in the area. Established in the 18th century, it is also part of the Appalachian Trail community, underscoring its long-standing connection to nature and history. The town’s historic district includes the Iron Furnace, dating to 1760 and a testament to Boiling Springs’ early industrial role.
The town features a variety of attractions for visitors and residents. Allenberry Resort and Playhouse, a historic venue since the mid-20th century, provides entertainment, dining, and lodging options. The Boiling Springs Tavern, founded in 1832, offers classic American cuisine in a historic environment. For outdoor enjoyment, Children’s Lake is perfect for fishing and relaxing walks, and the Appalachian Trail runs through the center of the community, offering great hiking opportunities.
Jim Thorpe
Landmark buildings in the historic town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Image credit Dan Hanscom via Shutterstock
Jim Thorpe sits in the Lehigh Gorge in eastern Pennsylvania, and was originally known as Mauch Chunk and played a pivotal role in the coal and railroad industries. Renamed in 1954 to honor the legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, the town retains a Victorian era charm, with much of its architecture preserved and celebrated. This heritage is evident in attractions such as the Asa Packer Mansion, built in 1861 by a philanthropist and railroad magnate, which now serves as a museum.
The historic downtown Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Editorial credit: Alizada Studios / Shutterstock.com.
Visitors to Jim Thorpe can choose from various recreation and dining options. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway provides a scenic ride through the mountains, perfect for enjoying the area’s natural beauty. Dining choices include Moya, famous for its upscale American dishes, and Stone Row Pub & Eatery, offering a relaxed atmosphere with local ingredients. Outdoor lovers can enjoy boating and hiking at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, making the town an attractive destination.
Ligonier
The Heritage United Methodist Church in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Image credit woodsnorthphoto via Shuterstock.
Ligonier was established in the 1760s and features a rich colonial history highlighted by Fort Ligonier, a British fortification from the French and Indian War. The town square, known as the Diamond, is circled by original structures and a bandstand from the 19th century, reinforcing its historical ambiance.
The rural countryside town of Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Image credit Gage Goulding via Shutterstock
Fort Ligonier functions as both a museum showcasing 18th-century artifacts and a venue for reenactments and educational activities. The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art enriches visitors with American art exhibitions. Dining options in Ligonier include the historic Ligonier Tavern, known for its local cuisine, and The Wicked Googly, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and live music. For outdoor leisure, Ligonier Beach offers a distinctive swimming experience with a historic pool from 1925.
Wellsboro
The downtown streets of Wellsboro are still illuminated with authentic gas street lamps. Image credit George Sheldon via Shutterstock
Wellsboro, located in Tioga County, was established in 1806 and acts as the gateway to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, also known as Pine Creek Gorge. The town exudes nostalgic charm with its gas-lit streets and historic Victorian buildings, offering a window into its storied history. A prime example of this history is the Penn Wells Hotel, which has been serving visitors since the early 1900s.
For those wanting to explore Wellsboro, the restored 1920s movie theater, The Arcadia Theatre, regularly features films and performances, serving as a cultural center for locals and visitors. The Native Bagel offers a relaxed dining atmosphere with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor lovers can enjoy Leonard Harrison State Park, which offers stunning views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, along with trails and picnic spots. Furthermore, the annual Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival attracts crowds with its parade, arts and crafts, and local food stalls, honoring the area’s cultural traditions.
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Foxburg
Foxburg, Pennsylvania as seen from the old Foxburg Bridge
Foxburg, situated along the Allegheny River in Clarion County, was founded in 1870. It is famous for being home to the oldest golf course still in operation in the United States, the Foxburg Country Club, established in 1887. This historical feature adds to its charming and distinctive character, blending small-town American charm with a deep golf tradition.
The Foxburg Wine Cellars offers tastings of locally produced wines, complemented by a scenic setting. For dining, the Allegheny Grille provides riverfront views alongside a menu featuring regional cuisine, emphasizing the town’s picturesque location. Culture enthusiasts can explore the American Golf Hall of Fame, located within the Foxburg Country Club, which houses a collection of golf memorabilia and artifacts. For outdoor activities, the nearby Allegheny River Trail offers miles of biking and walking paths, making Foxburg a destination with diverse appeal.
Honesdale
Colorful buildings on Main Street in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Editorial credit: Nina Alizada / Shutterstock.com.
Honesdale serves as the county seat for Wayne County and was founded in 1826. It has historical significance as the terminus of the Delaware and Hudson Canal, pivotal in the transport of coal to major markets in the northeast. Notably, Honesdale is credited with being the site of the first commercial steam locomotive run on rails in the United States, the Stourbridge Lion, adding a rich layer to its industrial heritage.
The Wayne County Historical Society presents exhibits on canal and railroad history, shedding light on the town’s growth. For dining, visitors can choose the upscale Hotel Wayne, known for its fine dining and bistro bar, or the more relaxed Trackside Grill, offering views of the historic railroad. Outdoor lovers can visit Honesdale Park, which has walking paths and recreational facilities, serving as a popular venue for community events and gatherings.
Milford
Downtown Milford, Pennsylvania. Image credit: DenSmith via Flickr.com.
Milford is situated at the crossroads of the Delaware River and the Pocono Mountains’ foothills. Established in 1796, it rapidly gained popularity as a resort in the 19th century, thanks to its scenic landscape and fresh mountain air. The town is also renowned for the Milford Historic District, which features a range of well-preserved buildings that reflect its prosperous history.
The Columns Museum houses the famous Lincoln Flag, believed to be stained with Abraham Lincoln’s blood from the night of his assassination, providing a profound historical experience. For dining, Bar Louis at the Hotel Fauchère offers a contemporary menu in a stylish setting, while the Waterwheel Café provides a rustic atmosphere with live music and local cuisine. Additionally, Grey Towers National Historic Site, the former home of Gifford Pinchot, founder of the U.S. Forest Service, offers guided tours and scenic grounds.
Mount Joy
Twisted Bine Beer Co. is a small-scale microbrewery of craft beer with an onsite tasting room and farm to table restaurant that is located in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, via Raymond C. Eichelberger / Shutterstock.com
Mount Joy was founded in 1759 and has a name derived from an old Irish ship, the “Mountjoy,” which played a pivotal role in breaking a siege during the Irish Confederate Wars. This town, nestled among the rich, rolling farmlands of the county, has historically been a hub for agriculture and today melds historic charm with modern vibrancy, evident in its revitalized downtown area.
Bube’s Brewery, an intact historic 19th-century brewery and museum, offers unique dining experiences in its catacombs and regularly hosts murder mystery dinners. The Country Table Restaurant is known for its comfort food and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the town’s friendly spirit. For outdoor activities, Little Chiques Park provides scenic walking paths and picnic areas, perfect for family outings. Additionally, the annual “Mount Joy Winterfest” brings the community together with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, showcasing the town’s lively community spirit.
Lewisburg
The Campus in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Editorial credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com
Lewisburg is a vibrant town established in 1785. It is home to Bucknell University, established in 1846, which adds a youthful energy and cultural richness to the town. Lewisburg’s downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a tree-lined main street that enhances its historic charm.
A kiosk along Main Street in downtown Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Editorial credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com
In terms of activities and dining, Lewisburg offers a variety of choices that cater to both residents and visitors. The Campus Theatre, one of the few remaining single-screen art deco movie theaters in the country, offers a unique cinematic experience. For dining, Elizabeth’s American Bistro provides a fine dining experience using local ingredients, while the Bull Run Tap House offers a more casual atmosphere with a comprehensive selection of craft beers. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hufnagle Park offers a green retreat in the heart of the town, complete with walking paths and garden areas, making it a popular gathering place for community events and casual recreation.
As we journey through Pennsylvania’s coziest corners, we discover that these small towns do more than just charm visitors with their picturesque settings and historical backdrops. They invite us into a world where community spirit thrives and every street and alley tells a story. These towns, from Lititz’s pretzel-perfumed air to Lewisburg’s university vibes, showcase the true heart of Pennsylvania through their unyielding warmth and hospitality. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or a peek into America’s storied past, these towns offer a refuge where friendliness is the native language.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed after a massive U.S. and Israeli military operation Saturday, President Trump said. Meanwhile, the reactions to the strikes against Iran were mostly split along partisan lines among Pennsylvania’s elected officials.
