Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society

The Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society [SVES] was founded in September of 2016 and made its first public appearance in October of the same year. On January 21, 2017 SVES was established as one of the 20+ Societies across the nation and just the second Ethical Society in Pennsylvania, the Ethical Society of Philadelphia being the first. Now a member of the American Ethical Union [AEU] the Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society has acquired 501(c)3 status as well as the ability to provide the necessary programs that encourage and support Ethical Living and Ethical Action in the Central Susquehanna Valley.

Additionally, in December of 2022 SVES was granted affiliation status with the American Humanist Association [AHA].

Who We Are

The Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society is a humanist, non-theistic, educational, philosophical and charitable organization. We are inspired by the ideal that the supreme aim of human life is to create a more just, equitable, diverse, sustainable, and compassionate society. We endeavor to nurture the capacity and responsibility of human beings to act in their personal relationships and in the larger community to help create a better world. Our commitment is to the worth and dignity of every individual and to treating each human being so as to bring out the best in them and in doing so bring out the best in ourselves. We join together to assist each other in developing ethical ideas and ideals, to celebrate life's joys and support each other through life's crises, and to cultivate ethical behavior in the community around us.

OUR MISSION:  

The Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society is a community of all walks of life that learns and grows together through shared values, doing good, and nurturing the human spirit.  

OUR CORE VALUES:

Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society is dedicated to promoting a just and peaceful world, one built upon the foundation of individual ethical behavior. We engage our community in a loving and empathetic way that promotes our mission and acknowledges the right of each and every human being to live a peaceful, relevant, and fulfilling life. 

Our commitment is to the worth and dignity of every individual and to treating each human being so as to bring out the best in them and in doing so bring out the best in ourselves.

Why Donate to SVES During RtR?

SVES funds raised are used exclusively, directly, and in full to support the people in our local communities. SVES is a volunteer-based organization with very little overhead (which is paid for via member dues). Therefore RtR fundraising is funneled directly to our ethical action projects, advocacy, and programs within the Susquehanna Valley region.

Our Ethical Action Projects and Advocacy

We promote widespread human flourishing, Susquehanna Valley Ethical Humanists organize projects to benefit others in our community.  We educate, advocate, and direct our action to build a culture of peace.

The Valley's ethical action efforts include civil and human rights, environmental action, hunger, and homelessness.    

Our Community Service Projects:

HOUSELESSNESS

Read More Here

 SVES Members and Friends Donate Goods and Services to Haven Ministry Homeless Shelter. LINK 

FOOD INSECURITY  

Valley Food Insecurity Team Packs Food Boxes

The Valley Ethical Society's Food Insecurity Team volunteers at the Union-Snyder County Food Hub located at the Miller Center/ Lewisburg, PA. Our volunteers pack food boxes for families living in our valley communities. 

Our Dog Days of Summer Food Drive

Our Food Insecurity Team hosts an annual summer food drive to provide essential nutrition to families and individuals facing food insecurity. 

Our Little Free Pantry 

Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society hosts a Little Free Pantry in Mifflinburg, PA. where neighbors can pick up non-perishable food. Our Valley Ethical Humanists are dedicated to addressing food insecurity in our community. See Tab "Mutual Aid"

We Host Meals

Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society hosts dinners to feed low-income individuals and families enrolled in The Getting Ahead Foundation Program. Getting Ahead is a community initiative offered at no cost to interested families who are ready to begin moving toward freedom from poverty. 

ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION 

Eliminating Waste 

Read About Our Recycling/Upcycling Project 

Trash Clean Up 

In the spring our members head out to pick-up trash. 

NEW for 2025!

Back to School Haircuts

Susquehanna Valley Ethical Society is partnering with local hairstylists to pilot a Back to School Haircut Program for Children. See Tab "Mutual Aid" 

ADVOCACY is necessary to ensure every person can thrive and flourish. 

Thank You! 

Your generous donation is taken with gratitude and responsibility to lifting up our neighbors in need--to raising our region!