Matthew Nonnemacher knew that every penny counts. He conducted a penny drive for the United Way in his area and collected nearly 2 million pennies (more than $18,000) during a two-month period.

It started when his fourth-grade classroom teacher asked the students to draw a picture of a single wish they’d like to grant. Matthew drew a picture of himself giving money to the poor. After the assignment, Matthew wrote a letter to the editor of a local newspaper asking readers for suggestions as to how he could help those less fortunate. He received several responses, one suggesting that he collect dimes. Matthew liked the idea but thought a penny drive would be more fun. He wanted to raise one million pennies – $10,000.

With the help of his family, friends, and the United Way of Greater Hazleton, Matthew launched “A Million Ways to Care” Penny Drive. Nearly 800 collection jars were placed throughout his city along with a “wishing well” at a local shopping mall. Letters were sent to local businesses and civic groups. A total of 1,819,691 pennies, or $18,196.91, was collected. “I knew my project would help a lot of poor people have food, clothes and a place to stay,” he explained. “I learned you can do anything you set your mind to.”

After frequently being asked how other families could conduct a similar drive in their community, Matt’s parents developed a “How To” manual, and a local Internet company established a helpful website.

Toward the end of the school year, while Matthew was a sixth-grader of St. Joseph Memorial School, he became one of three state honorees to receive The Prudential Spirit of Community Inspiration Award.
(Hazleton, Pennsylvania: 1998)
Story Courtesy of Prudential Spirit of Community Awards 2000