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‘We Love Pam’

Falber has 30-year impact on area youth

Pam Falber

Lifetime Warren resident Pam Valone Falber has made an impact in the lives of the community’s youth for nearly 30 years.

Happily married to Benji Falber, they have two daughters, Tracey Anderson and Christy Shatto as well as four grandchildren. Deeply passionate about working with children of all ages, Falber began a career with the IU#5 (Intermediate Unit) where she worked with preschool aged children with developmental delays. For a period of 28 years to follow, she devoted her time supporting adolescents in their academic pursuits and practical life skills. After paraprofessionals were terminated by the IU, Falber was able to maintain that role at Beaty Middle School. She spent her last few years in the Warren County Career Center and in 2000, Falber applied for the director position for the Warren Area Student Union (WASU). Able to balance both roles for a time, Falber retired from the Warren County School District, and now dedicates herself to providing a safe space for school age students (grades 5-12) at the WASU where connection and creativity thrive. Overseeing student-led activities and programs throughout the year, Falber said she has found her job to be humbling as well as fulfilling. Mutual respect and incredible friendships continue to develop at the WASU. She shared, “It truly warms my heart when students come back to volunteer or just stop by to see me at WASU.”

The Mission Statement for the WASU is a place for youth to gather, spend time constructively, grow mentally and emotionally, learn social skills, respect and responsibility, build maturity, give back to the community and have fun.

“I hold this mission statement dear because over the past 26 years, I have encountered some of the most extraordinary children imaginable. My aim has always been to be a positive role model, but what I cherish most is the unity among the students-no cliques! Staying connected and witnessing their growth has been another incredible journey for me. I miss all of them but love seeing their lives flourish with careers and families.”

Creative arts is one of her interests for the activities held at the WASU, from painting and crafting to assisting youth in their own projects such as WKTP, (WASU Kids Theater Program) and the very well known annual haunted house, completely organized and run by the youth.

A recent production of “Back to the Summer” was performed by students at WASU. The play was written by a former student of the WASU and is similar to “Back to the Future.” The adult audience enjoyed the step back into time with several 80s songs and a trip down memory lane.

Over the years, many activities have taken place including theater productions, punk concerts, birthday parties, dances and exercise classes.

Parents and their children agree that Falber’s kindness and love for the students is evident as she works very hard to make sure everyone is included.

Parent Amanda Bosko remarked, “We love Pam. She is so kind and loves all the kids. She will adjust her hours to account for the kids. That’s pretty amazing.”

Students Alix and Catalina Peterson said, “She’s worked hard to make WASU a place where kids have things to do and people to meet, and is successful. She gives us a place to be creative.”

In 2016, Falber was selected by the Zonta Club for the “Women Who Make a Difference” award.

Upon retiring, she was recognized with an award by the Warren Forest Chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees. Described as going above and beyond and having a passion for encouraging students to explore their potential and be their best, Falber continues to be a light to the children who are part of the WASU. In her freetime, Falber enjoys spending time with her grandkids, going to NYC bus trips and seeing the Eagles band at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

The student union is a place where friendships form and a feeling of belonging is apparent. Students take part in a variety of fun activities such as laser tag, corn hole, basketball, pool, board games, karaoke and more.

The Warren Area Student Union is very thankful to all the donors who contributed to the 2026 Warren Gives Campaign. Located at 330 Hickory St. in Warren, the WASU is a 501c3 non-profit charity to serve the youth of Warren County. Many people are unaware that the WASU remains open after school until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Also open during the summer months, the weekly hours vary and can be found on the WASU Facebook page.

No registration or fees are required unless a special event is planned. For more information, call (814) 723-7674 or email: wasuteencenter@hotmail.com

Starting at $4.00/week.

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