Welcome to the inaugural issue of The Via Voice, the voice of our community. Via's mission is to provide opportunities for people with disabilities so they may be independent, productive and enjoy full lives within the community.  Through The Via Voice, we will share news and stories, discuss important issues, and keep you informed of Via happenings. 

Via Stories

Each issue of The Via Voice highlights a story from one of Via's three service lines to give a voice to the individuals we serve.  Via's Service lines are Children's Services, Employment and Community Connections.  This issue highlights Via's Children's Services.

Two-year old Gracie and her older brother's arguing seemed to be just a part of family life.  However, Gracie had extreme difficulties communicating and was frustrated in her interactions with those who love her most.

After evaluation by the Via's Early Intervention program, it was discovered that Gracie's speech development was slower than that of most children her age.  This discovery helped the family understand that Gracie's behavior - which often included biting and pushing - were a result of her frustration of not being able to communicate her feelings using speech.

Via began working with Gracie and her family on a weekly basis.  The change has been dramatic since Via started working with her.  Gracie's speech has improved and she has learned how to tell her family what she needs and wants without frustration.

Learn more about Via's Children's Services

Via Events

The Via Voice informs you of upcoming Via Events in the Lehigh Valley.  To learn more about participating or partnering in a Via event, visit us online Via Events.

Via Lehigh River Relay Marathon

More than 820 runners participated in the inaugural Via Lehigh River Relay Marathon Sunday, September 9, 2007.  Participants hit the streets running to help raise money for Via of the Lehigh Valley's programs for children and adults with disabilities.

The runners themselves tell the story about Via's Mission. We believe all people should have the opportunity to participate in our community. And with a range of finishing times, from our first relay team finishing in 2 hours and 28 minutes, to our last marathoner coming in at 8 hours and 40 minutes, our commitment is to provide opportunities for all people, regardless of ability, whether they are in running or in life.  Via and the Lehigh Valley was there to cheer on the first runner, cheer on the last and everyone in between.

Save the Date for Next Year:

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Registration will open in early 2008

Via All-Star Basketball Classic

Save the date for 33rd Annual Via All-Star Classic:

Via All-Star Banquet, Thursday, March 27, 2008 @ Freedom High School

Via Super Saturday, All-Star Basketball Classic, Saturday, March 29, 2008 @ Freedom High School

Last Year's Speaker: Jason McElwain

Via Golf Classic

Via's 5th annual Golf Classic raised money for Via's children's services.  Karen Whitehill, Via Board of Directors chair and senior vice president of KNBT bank, the event's main sponsor, said, "Via's Children's services focuses on early intervention and helping children with disabilities that are identified early.  Children can be better prepared to integrate with peers in school and have a better chance of success."

2008 Date TBA

Via Partner News

The Via Voice highlights unique partnerships between Via and Lehigh Valley Companies.  To learn more about partner opportunities, visit us online Via Partner's Program.

To schedule your Corporate Clothing Drive, email Via@ViaNet.org or call 484-893-5389.