Join us for an inspiring evening as we reflect on the collective power of Women in Philanthropy. Together, we’ll celebrate the remarkable progress made to uplift women, girls, and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania—and look ahead to the exciting initiatives on the horizon for 2026.
Enjoy meaningful connection, inspiring stories, and a shared sense of purpose as we recognize the dedication of our members and honor the recipients of theMargaretta Belin Chamberlin Award and the Roseann Smith Alperin Award—two honors that celebrate outstanding women whose leadership strengthens our community.
Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration
Miércoles, Noviembre 5, 2025
5-7 PM
Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club
612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510
The event is complimentary for WIP supporters and up to two guests. General public can attend for $25. Dinner and refreshments provided. Please RSVP for ALL guests by Miércoles, Octubre 29th.
Meet Our 2026 Award Recipients
Each year during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration, we proudly present two prestigious honors: the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award and the Roseann Smith Alperin Award.
Both awards are made possible through charitable funds established at the Scranton Area Community Foundation to memorialize loved ones and to recognize outstanding leadership, service, and excellence among women in our community.
This year, we are thrilled to honor Lisa Durkin and Melba Fialko—two remarkable women whose vision and dedication continue to strengthen Northeastern Pennsylvania.
MEET Lisa Durkin
Lisa Durkin is the President and Chief Executive Officer of United Neighborhood Centers. Ms. Durkin began her career at UNC in 1998 after receiving her Bachelor of Social Work from Mansfield University. She served the agency as a Housing Counselor, Community Services Director and Chief Operating Officer before assuming the role of CEO in 2019. She has been instrumental to the growth and expansion of UNC which now operates five programmatic departments within an $11,000,000 budget and provides services to more than 10,000 children, families, immigrants, young adults and seniors each year.
Ms. Durkin additionally serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of United Neighborhood Community Development Corporation and HBS Management Company. In this capacity, she oversees the development and management of 401 units of housing situated in Lackawanna, Luzerne and Carbon counties. She has completed executive education programs at the University of Michigan and Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and continues to serve the broader community through participation on various advisory boards and committees
The Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award is presented annually to a woman whose vision, dedication, and courage have enhanced the quality of life and expanded the opportunities for the people within her community and whose creative interests, energies, and service to others have contributed substantially to the betterment of her community.
MEET Melba Fialko
Melba Fialko was raised in North Scranton in a family where service to others was a deeply held value. From an early age, she learned the importance of giving her time and dedication to her community.
A graduate of North Scranton Junior High and Scranton Central High School, Melba went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education from East Stroudsburg University. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Marywood University. Her commitment to children and education became a 38-year career as an elementary educator in the Abington Heights School District.
Melba’s faith has been a central part of her volunteer service at First Presbyterian Church of Clarks Summit. She has been involved in Christian education, youth groups, and Bible school, helping generations of young people develop a strong sense of faith, community, and service. She has also served the congregation in a number of leadership roles, including as an Elder and Deacon, and through the Mission and Justice Committee and Christian Education Committee.
Melba’s dedication to service has also taken her far beyond her own community. Following Hurricane Katrina, Melba volunteered in recovery efforts alongside a First Presbyterian youth group. She also helped with community restoration from Tropical Storm Lee in the Susquehanna region and Hurricane Sandy on Brigantine Island through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Melba also participated in the 60-mile Susan G. Komen Walk twice to raise funds for breast cancer research and support, a cause that holds deep personal significance to her.
Melba has carried that spirit of service into her own community, giving her time and energy to organizations that make a difference in the lives of others. She has volunteered with the Bethel AME Homeless Shelter, St. Francis Kitchen, and the NEPA Youth Shelter. As one of the NEPA Youth shelter’s founding volunteers, Melba has helped prepare meals and snacks while providing encouragement, compassion, and general support to high school students. Her dedication reflects her lifelong commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where young people can feel valued and cared for.
Of all Melba’s accomplishments, she is most proud of her son, Jared Fialko, and daughter-in-law, Dr. Lana Minshew, who reside in Morrisville, North Carolina. Outside of her volunteering, Melba enjoys staying active at the gym, especially yoga and personal training, and spending time in her flower garden. Through her unwavering faith and lifelong commitment to serving others, Melba continues to lead a blessed and fulfilled life.
The Roseann Smith Alperin Award is presented annually to an outstanding woman who exhibits the capacity to lead, motivate, and inspire others and the community she serves.
Annual Celebration Sponsorship & Tribute Opportunities
Support the mission of Women in Philanthropy—empowering women, girls, and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Tribute Message – $25
Share a message celebrating 2026 honorees Lisa Durkin and Melba Fialko in the event program.
Business Logo Sponsor – $100
Showcase your organization’s support with your logo or ad featured in the program and recognized during the event.
Please note: 100% of all proceeds from sponsorships and tribute listings directly support the mission of Women in Philanthropy—to empower and transform the lives of women, girls, and their families through the collective philanthropy of engaged supporters.
To reserve your tribute or sponsorship, contact Jacob Torba at jacob@safdn.org or 570-347-6203.