By Christine Price
Columnist
Amidst all the stress, anxiety, craziness and bad news, my goal is to spotlight and share the good news in our community.
When you think of organizations that quietly make a difference every day, United Way of Lake County (UWLC) is certainly one of them.
Now that work is receiving regional recognition.
United Way of Lake County and its president and CEO Dione DeMitro, have been honored as a Progressive Organization by the 2026 Smart Women Awards for Northeast Ohio.
The recognition was presented during Smart Business’ annual Smart Women Breakfast and Awards on July 8 at Cleveland’s Severance Music Center.
The Smart Women Awards celebrate outstanding women leaders and organizations whose vision, leadership and commitment help strengthen both the economy and the communities of northeast Ohio.
This year’s program recognized women who are breaking barriers, inspiring others and creating meaningful change.
United Way earned the Progressive Organization honor for its commitment to improving the lives of women and children throughout Lake County.
A major part of that effort is Women United, the organization’s dynamic affinity group that brings together local women who give, advocate and volunteer to help girls and women of every age reach their full potential.
Through their generosity and hands-on involvement, these volunteers continue to make a lasting impact across our community.
“Receiving this award is a powerful testament to the collective passion of our staff, volunteers and the incredible women of Women United,” said DeMitro. “We are deeply committed to creating opportunities for women and children in our community. This recognition fuels our determination to keep pushing forward, innovating and lifting others up as we work together to build a stronger, more resilient Lake County.”
The award is just the latest recognition for DeMitro, who was recently named Leadership Lake County’s 2026 Leader of the Year.
Under her leadership, United Way invested more than $1.543 million throughout Lake County during the fiscal year ending June 30, helping support the county’s most vulnerable residents through programs and partnerships that strengthen the community.
Congratulations to Dione DeMitro, the staff, volunteers and Women United on this well-deserved honor.
It’s always encouraging to see a Lake County organization recognized for making such a positive difference close to home.
For more information about United Way of Lake County or Women United, visit uwlc.org.
When you see good news, and you will, please send it to cpriceconcord@aol.com. Include your name, phone number, city of residence and email address.
