United Way's Newspaper Sale Raises Funds, Community Spirit

Katie O'Brien, St. Bonaventure Interim Title IX Coordinator and United Way board member, sells Community Day newspapers at the St. Bonaventure intersection

On Thursday, June 4, dozens of dedicated volunteers took to the streets in Olean, Allegany, Portville, and Salamanca for United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties’ annual Community Day newspaper sale. 

Volunteers stood strong at intersections across the region, selling special editions of the Olean Times Herald to support local United Way-funded programs, and raising more than $4,000 to help our neighbors thrive. 

“I appreciate our wonderful volunteers so much,” said Susan McAuley, executive director. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have people who give their time and energy to support their neighbors. Community Day is a great reminder that our volunteers are the heart of this effort.”

McAuley added that the newspaper sale is also an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the many organizations and programs funded through United Way donor support.

“We're proud to help share the good news of the work being done every day by our partner agencies,” she said. “Whether it's helping families meet basic needs, supporting students, improving health outcomes, or strengthening community connections, these programs are making a real difference. Community Day gives us a chance to celebrate that impact and thank the people who make it possible.”

Community Day includes the annual tradition of awarding the Golden Cone to the top-selling intersection. This year’s Golden Cone goes to the team at the St. Bonaventure University main entrance.

The team of Rob DeFazio, Alice Miller-Nation, Katie O’Brien, and Mike Waseda raised an impressive $621.00.

Second place went to the Allegany crew – Paula and Al Bernstein, Monica Emery, Darrell Neal, and Paula Scraba. 

Thank you to everyone who participated in Community Day 2026 – whether you sold papers, bought one, or simply honked and waved as you passed. Your support helps local programs continue to serve those who need it most. 

Special thanks as well to the Olean Times Herald and their staff for helping make the day possible.