Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Women’s Networking committee has recently awarded their fifth annual Women’s Empowerment Grants. This grant is intended for women beginning their higher education, returning to college for an advanced degree or taking additional courses to improve their workplace skills.

“This year we received nine applications”. explains Leann Fallabel, Chamber VP of Marketing and Woman’s Networking Committee Coordinator. “After carefully reviewing and scoring each, the volunteer committee narrowed it down to seven women. Each of the eight women were personally interviewed by the committee and, following the interviews they were able to decide who would receive the grants for 2012” continues Ms. Fallabel.

The Women’s Networking Committee raises money for this grant throughout the year at their events including, evening networking mixers, an annual Ladies Night Out event, a holiday decorating contest and social and luncheon programs.

In addition to raising funds at these events, for the fourth year in a row, PPL has made a generous donation of $800. Also again, this year, the Hazleton YMCA/YWCA Kirkpatrick Foundation has generously contributed $500 toward the Women’s Empowerment Grant Fund.

For 2012 the committee has been able to distribute four $1000 grants. The recipients of this year’s Women’s Empowerment Grants are: Francelys Fabian, currently attending Penn State Hazleton; Camelia Francisc, currently attending King’s College; Renee J. Baran, currently attending Argosy University Online and Allison Rudewick, currently attending Luzerne County Community College.

The woman will be recognized at the Chamber’s upcoming Annual Business & Community Awards Luncheon, which is being held on Thursday, October 25ht, at Top of the 80’s Restaurant in Drums.

For more information on the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Woman’s Networking Committee’s events and initiatives visit or to celebrate with the grant recipients at the upcoming awards luncheon, contact the Chamber at 455-1509, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.hazletonchamber.org.