In 2009, we began by raising funds to support local food pantries in Leyden Township. After our 2nd Annual Pre-Holiday Celebration & Food Drive, former Leyden H.S. teacher, Dominic Manola reached out to us asking if we would organize a fundraiser for Lucia Ramirez. At the time, Lucia was a senior at East Leyden H.S. fighting a serious medical condition (today she continues the fight). After meeting with Lucia, we agreed to help. Our 3rd Annual Pre-Holiday Celebration & Food Drive in 2011 was also a benefit for Lucia Ramirez. She was so overcome by the generosity shown to her by the community that she felt called to give back. It was Lucia’s desire to create a Scholarship Program. Two (2) $500.00 Lucia Ramirez Community Involvement Scholarships were awarded to Leyden H.S. students at the end of the school year and the Unity in Community Foundation was born.