The United Way of Carbon County is merging with the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

United Way of Carbon County sought out the Lehigh Valley United Way to discuss potential collaboration or affiliation opportunities.Eighteen months later both sides agreed the merge was in the best interest in Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties to share resources and expand coverage.United Way Worldwide encourages mergers among smaller United Ways to allow for efficiency in operations and to serve more people."United Way took an important step to increase resources in our county for the people who need it most, and we are very glad this merger is now approved with both organizations," said Greg Bott, board chairman of the United Way of Carbon County.The merger was unanimously approved by the Carbon County board of directors and volunteer leadership staff.The Lehigh Valley United Way also approved the merger and is planning an intensive study of the area by the end of the year.The name of the merged organizations will exist as United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley."We're looking forward to being in the Lehigh County area and expanding coverage and services for people," said Lenore Mohr, senior director of marketing and communications at the Lehigh Valley United Way.Approximately 4,000 Carbon County residents commute daily to the Lehigh Valley to work at some of the area's largest companies. Some of those commuters, through their companies, have expressed a desire to see the community impact model implemented in Carbon County.If a disaster strikes in one of the counties, the merger as a larger United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will have the flexibility to shift funds if necessary.Any increased contributions in the Carbon County area will provide the opportunity to spread costs over a larger base, thereby increasing available funds to invest in Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. United Way of Carbon County is strictly a volunteer-led organization with limited fundraising efforts. This merger will allow increased funds to pay for services where they are needed most.A fellowship breakfast to discuss the merger will be held at 9 a.m. Thursday at the Mahoning Ambulance Association at 902 Mill Road in Lehighton. The community is invited.