In this edition of Inspiring Neighbor, we’re spotlighting Crystal Williams, development officer at New Bethany. Known for her commitment to fostering community and inspiring generosity across the Lehigh Valley, Crystal is dedicated to lifting up neighbors in need. Here is our Q&A with her:
Q: What drives your passion, and what is one current project at New Bethany that you're most excited about?
CRYSTAL: What drives me is witnessing transformation, not only in the lives of the neighbors we serve at New Bethany, but also in the lives of our supporters and champions. Denzel Washington once said, 'You'll never see a U-Haul behind a hearse.' Knowing that I have the opportunity to inspire and foster decisions rooted in philanthropy, generosity and lasting impact makes this work worthwhile.
One project I’m especially excited about right now is Luminaria. What makes Luminaria so meaningful to me is how it brings together different holiday traditions in one celebration of our shared humanity.
From Christmas and Hanukkah to the winter solstice and Kwanzaa, each tradition shares a connection to the symbolism of light and the lighting of candles. Luminaria embodies brotherly love, solidarity and remembrance of our neighbors experiencing hardship, reminding us that the holiday season is about more than receiving gifts. It’s about experiencing the true gift of giving, creating hope and ensuring people from all walks of life feel seen, valued and included in the season's joy.
Q: What makes you most proud to be part of the Lehigh Valley, and why is "showing up" for this region so meaningful to you personally?
CRYSTAL: Community! I believe one of the Lehigh Valley's greatest strengths is its ability to build, nurture and sustain communities. What excites me most is the opportunity to take that strength even further by creating communities that work for and embrace all people, regardless of their backgrounds, identities or walks of life. To me, showing up means being intentional about belonging, bridging differences and helping to ensure everyone has an opportunity to be seen, valued and supported.
Q: Is there a favorite quote or personal motto you live by?
CRYSTAL: My personal motto is to "live life with open hands versus a clenched fist." This is my personal expression, inspired by 1 John 4:18, "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear," and Henri J. M. Nouwen's book, "With Open Hands." I even plan on getting a tattoo with the expression!
Q: What advice would you give to fellow neighbors looking to get involved and give back to our community?
CRYSTAL: Find an initiative or cause that triggers something within you while simultaneously igniting your passion! Something that challenges your perspective, moves you beyond your comfort zone and inspires you to be part of a solution. You don't have to have all the answers or resources to make a difference; sometimes, the most meaningful impact begins with simply showing up. Connect, get involved and just do it!
Know an Inspiring Neighbor? Email meganf@wlvt.org and tell us who you’d like to see featured.