To mark 100 years of service to the Bradford Community, the United Way of the Bradford Area (UWBA) will transform its annual Red Feather Awards into this year’s Red Feather Gala.

The gala is set for 6 p.m. May 30 in Mukaiyama University Room at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford and will feature music by Jim Ronan.

Three outstanding individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to community service and support of the UWBA’s mission will be recognized. This year’s honorees are Jeff Boser and Family, with the Red Feather Award; Brian Fernandes Halloran of Halloran Philanthropies, with the Excellence in Representation Award; and Kathy Obermeyer of ERA Real Estate with the Small Business Award.

Boser and his family have been devoted community advocates and longtime United Way supporters, UWBA representatives said in a press release.

A lifelong Bradford resident, ‘Boser has dedicated his life to serving his community through both his professional work and volunteer efforts.’

One of four children, Boser grew up working in his family’s business, the South Bradford Fruit Market. He said it instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work and helping others.

‘For the past 44 years, Jeff has worked in the excavating business, serving local families, businesses and organizations,’ the release stated.

He joined Columbia Gas Co. in 2011 and works there still. Beyond his professional contributions, Boser has supported numerous organizations in addition to UWBA, including Kids and Cancer, the Historic Downtown Business Association and Fraternal Order of Eagles 2434, for which he served on the board of directors. He has also lent his support to The Pink Pumpkin Project and several other local initiatives.

Boser noted that one of his family’s most cherished traditions has been the United Way’s annual pig roast to kick off its campaign, where they have cooked and served corn for attendees. UWBA noted the custom has worked to foster a sense of community and generosity.

Boser said he is ‘deeply honored to receive this award, acknowledging the values instilled in him by his parents and the importance of giving back.’ Reflecting on his service, Boser said, ‘Bradford has given me so much over the years, and I’m just grateful for the chance to give back. It’s not about recognition — it’s about helping each other and making sure our town thrives for generations to come.’

Halloran Philanthropies will be recognized for its ongoing commitment to community advocacy and UWBA support.

‘Brian has dedicated his career to leveraging philanthropy as a powerful tool for community transformation. With a lifelong passion for art and social impact, Brian has spent decades developing programs that uplift individuals and strengthen communities,’

Gala… page A-8 officials said. Halloran said his journey began at age 18, when he volunteered for a year in Africa, teaching and painting murals. That formative experience exposed him to the complexities of poverty and inspired his lifelong commitment to community- driven solutions.

As executive director of Halloran Philanthropies, he has focused on identifying and supporting grassroots leaders, ensuring that funding reaches those doing the most meaningful work on the ground.

Halloran believes that true philanthropy should be responsive, community- centered and adaptable to changing needs. He said he sees himself not as a benefactor, but as a steward ensuring that resources flow to those who need them most.

He credits his late father, Harry R. Halloran Jr., for inspiring his commitment to service and hopes to continue honoring his legacy through thoughtful philanthropy.

“Philanthropy isn’t about writing checks — it’s about relationships, trust and investing in people,” Halloran said. “United Way of Bradford has been a pillar of this community for a century, and I’m honored to play a small role in supporting its mission.”

Obermeyer’s community contributions and steadfast support of UWBA initiatives will be recognized with the Small Business Award.

“A lifelong resident of Bradford, Kathy Obermeyer has dedicated her 30-year career as a Pennsylvania-licensed Realtor to serving her community with integrity, passion and dedication.

As a leader in real estate, she has played a vital role in helping families and businesses establish roots in the area, contributing to the town’s economic growth and stability,” the release states.

Beyond her professional achievements, Obermeyer’s civic mindedness has led her to spearhead numerous local initiatives such as sponsoring Bradford’s Old-Fashioned Christmas horse and carriage rides, and expanded the event to include Bradford’s First Night, further enriching the community’s holiday celebrations.

Obermeyer has been a tireless advocate for law enforcement, organizing the Back the Blue 5K and contributing to 911 Toy Express, Police Night Out, the William Hanley Sr. Lodge 67 Fraternal Order of Police, and the Lt. Jeffrey Shade Memorial Tournament. Her dedication to law enforcement support earned her an honorary membership in the Fraternal Order of Police.

She has been a member of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Services Inc. Board of Directors since 2017 and also supports youth programs, sports and educational initiatives, believing that investing in children is investing in the future of Bradford.

Obermeyer said, “This community means everything to me. I’ve built my career here, raised my family here, and I want to continue making Bradford a great place to live. It’s an honor to be recognized, but the real reward is seeing the difference we can make together.”

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the Red Feather Gala are now available. For more information, contact UWBA at (814) 368-6181 or email sarah.lonzi@uwbanews. org. RSVPs are due by May 23.