Who is EDWARD M. GIANFORTE?
Dr. Edward M. Gianforte, who passed away on January 24, 2013, at the age of 85 in Allentown, was a distinguished figure in the fields of medical microbiology, radiology, and cancer research. Born in New Haven, CT, to Joseph and Grace Gianforte, he embarked on an impressive academic journey, obtaining graduate degrees from the University of Connecticut, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on medical microbiology and pathogenesis. His research contributions extended to Yale, where he conducted pioneering work in cancer research. As a member of the New York Academy of Sciences, he chaired an International Conference on pulmonary diseases and authored numerous scientific papers. Dr. Gianforte was also a past member of the American Society of Microbiologists and held board certification in Radiology, specializing in medicine and radiology. He further served as an Environmental Physician, Chairman of the Infectious Control Committee, and Clinical Radiologist at the Allentown Veterans Clinic, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to science and healthcare.
What is THE EDWARD M. GIANFORTE LEADERSHIP GIVING SOCIETY?
Dr. Edward M. Gianforte, a medical microbiologist and radiologist, was the single largest individual donor in the Conference’s 70-year history. Upon his death in 2013, Dr. Gianforte – who previously had no association with the Conference – made a $700,000 bequest, which has sustained the Conference kitchen for more than a decade. As we approach the conclusion of this extraordinary gift, there is no more appropriate way to pay homage to his memory and perpetuate the meaningful work he initiated than by urging others to emulate his generous spirit and contribute as he did.
The Gianforte Leadership Giving Society will recognize those individuals, families, and organizations who serve as role models of generosity by leading the way with an annual gift to the Conference of $1,000 or more. Contributions will be directed to the Gianforte Fund, where the funds will be allocated to the Conference's programs most in need at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
All donor-advised fund requests will be respected and fulfilled.*
Have questions? Contact Christopher Moran at: cmoran@lehighchurches.org.
Mailing Instructions
Please return the form below, if making the pledge in installments. If making an outright gift write a check with these details included. All checks should be payable to the: “Lehigh Conference of Churches,” writing “Gianforte Leadership Society” in the memo.
Please mail checks to:
The Lehigh Conference of Churches
Attn: Christopher Moran
457 W. Allen St, Allentown, PA 18102
Online Instructions
If you choose to make an outright gift or fulfill your pledge online, please follow these steps:
- Go to lehighchurches.org.
- Click on the "Donate" option at the top of the page.
- Choose "One-time donation or recurring gift"
- Under the "Please direct my support" section, select "The Edward M. Gianforte Leadership Giving "
- Please select between the “one-time” and “ongoing” tab. If you select “ongoing” please choose your preferred contribution frequency and customize the giving date.
- Select your desired donation amount.
- Complete the donation process.
Why become a MEMBER?
For over six and a half decades, the Lehigh Conference of Churches has been committed to tending to the needs of those experiencing hunger, homelessness, and disabilities. Through our steadfast efforts in delivering aid, fostering support, and creating opportunities, our organization has enabled the most disadvantaged individuals in our community to embark on paths toward greater self-sufficiency and personal autonomy. None of this vital work would be possible without the generous contributions from our dedicated donors across our diverse range of programs.
Conference kitchen Meals served
Supportive services accessed
2023 Statistics
Bus passes and toiletries distributed
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David Leber
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Malcolm West
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Gary & Kelly Carney
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Kenneth Carlson
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Kimberly Metz
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Andrew & Pam Weiss
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Ed & Anne Miller
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Christine Nelson
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David Torrey
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John & Jenny Kemps
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Juan & Judith Albornoz
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Phyllis Kempf
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Marc & Joann Basist
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Anthony Muir
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Frances Heussman
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Israel Olivieri
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Tom & Janice Stephens