Changemaker Edition | Winter 2024

WINTER 2024

Celebrating Individuals Who Make Things Happen In Our Community

THE

EDITION

I N

THE

T H I S

ISSU E

04 DOWNTOWN YORK MAP,

GETTING HERE & PARKING Where to go and where to park

07 PAST CHANGEMAKERS &

CURRENT SUPPORTERS A Look Back at Previous Changemakers and 2024 Supporters, Comcast and Hollywood Casino York

EDITION

09 THE 2024 CHANGEMAKERS Celebrating Individuals Who Make Things Happen In Our Community

10

INDIA BANKS The Problem Solver

This jointly published issue of the York County Economic Alliance & Downtown Inc is to celebrate the talent and drive of individuals making things happen in our community. In addition to this publication, those featured were recognized at a Changemaker Celebration, presented by Comcast and Hollywood Casino York, held at Investment Real Estate LLC in December.

12

KIMBERLY DOWLING The Motivator

14

KAYODE MALOMO The Creative

18

LORETTA CLAIBORNE The Legacy

ON THE COVER:

20

SAKIMA VONGPHAKDY The Entrepreneur

23

MARIA J. JÁCOME OTTATI The Advocate

27

RICHARD CRAIGHEAD The Builder

ABOUT THIS ISSUE:

The 2024 Changemakers; Back Row, L to R: Kimberly Dowling, India Banks, Richard Craighead, and Sakima Vongphakdy; Front Row, L to R: Kayode Malomo, Loretta Claiborne, and Maria J. Jácome Ottati. The Changemakers were photographed at The Yorktowne Hotel by Jason Langheine (JasonLangheine.com).

30 EVENTS

Downtown Map With its imaginative arts community, stunning architecture and restaurants that push the limits of flavor, DOWNTOWN YORK is the creative core of York County. It’s where the word revolutionary isn’t just a nod to the city’s past, but an indicator of its future. We invite you to visit today and soak in rich history, charming boutiques and a growing craft beer scene. You’ll find that Downtown York is HISTORICALLY EDGY, inside and out. This map will get you started!

N W

CO D

E

ORU

S CR

EEK

PeoplesBank Park

S

NORTH ST DUKE ST

GEORGE ST

BEAVER ST

PERSHING AVE

GAS AVE 1

PHILADELPHIA ST

WeCo

Central Market House

Appell Center for the Performing Arts

(WEST of CODORUS)

CLARK AVE

MARKET DISTRICT

MARKET ST The Yorktowne Hotel

Penn Market

MASON AVE KING ST

TRAI

K

RAIL

CREE RUS

TA G E HERI

CO D O

COLLEGE AVE

PINE ST

QUEEN ST

KEY:

PRINCESS ST

L

NEWBERRY ST

PENN ST

ROYAL SQUARE

W Philadelphia St

Bike Parking

Bar

Shopping

Garage 1 Parking 25 W Philadelphia St

Dining

Park

Police

Garage 2 Parking 41 E Market St

Museum

Courthouse

Parking

Garage 3 Parking 15 W King St

Market St King St

On-Street Parking Meters @DowntownYorkPa 04 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • Downtown Map

Getting Here DOWNTOWN YORK is easily accessible from all points north, south, east and west. Main arteries you want to look for? George Street and Queen Street from the north and south; Market Street and Philadelphia Street from the east and west.

FROM LANCASTER:

FROM GETTYSBURG:

• Take Route 30 West to North George Street • Turn left onto North George Street • Follow straight FROM HARRISBURG AND ALL POINTS NORTH:

• Take Route 30 East to North George Street • Turn right onto North George Street • Follow straight FROM SOUTH/BALTIMORE:

• Take I-83 South to Route 30 West, Exit 22 (North George Street) • Stay in the middle lane and turn right at the light onto North George Street • Follow straight

• Take I-83 North to South George Street Exit • Follow Business I-83/South George Street

Parking Parking is plentiful in York City, with 350 on-street meters and 1,260 garage spaces in three garages conveniently located within walking distance to downtown attractions.

Parking just got a whole lot easier with the ParkMobile App! No more scrambling to find loose change, returning to your car to feed the meter, or difficulty finding a spot. Download it to your mobile device before your next trip to Downtown York for an easy, contactless payment option.

GARAGE LOCATIONS • Market Street Garage (41 E. Market St.) • Philadelphia Street Garage (25 W. Philadelphia St.) • King Street Garage (15 W. King St.) • Central Market Parking Deck (W. Philadelphia & N. Beaver St.) PARKING METERS Metered, on-street parking is available. Enforcement hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am - 5 pm (Free on Sundays and holidays observed by the City of York), and Saturday from 9am - 3pm for parking meters located in the "Retail Zone." Meters are marked with the hours of operation and enforcement.

SMART METERS Park with one easy swipe: SmartMeters in the City of York. Over 200 SmartMeters in the Retail Zone/Core of downtown York allow for payment with both credit cards and coins.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please direct all parking questions, concerns and comments to: YORK CITY PARKING BUREAU: 717.815.0517

05 • WINTER 2024 • Getting Here & Parking

C R E D IT S

144 Roosevelt Ave. Suite 100 York, PA 17401 717.848.4000 YCEApa.org @YCEAPA info@downtownyorkpa.com DowntownYorkPa.com @DowntownYorkPa ADVERTISING: Casey Nixon: cnixon@yceapa.org

VIEW A DIGITAL VERSION ONLINE:

The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Copyright © 2024 York County Economic Alliance and Downtown Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission.

06 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • Credits

Issuu.com/DowntownYorkPA

Issuu.com/YoCoConnect

The York County Economic Alliance and Downtown Inc are thrilled to announce the fourth year of Changemakers, a program that highlights individuals who positively impact York County and beyond through their efforts in entrepreneurship, the arts, education, healthcare, and other industries.

Each of their stories is as unique and creative as the tapestry of our York community. This publication is a celebration of YOU: talented, driven, and passionate individuals who lead their respective fields to transform York County every day.

To view previous Changemaker publications, visit issuu.com/ YoCoConnect The 2021 Changemakers (Not pictured): Deborah Hioutis, Patricia Jackson, Lisa Kennedy, Dolka Lugo, Mark Rhodes, Wayne Sweeney and LaQuinn Thompson.

The 2022 Changemakers (ABOVE from L to R): Joshua Santiago, Brittany Dorm, Dr. Lajuan Mountain, Dr. Joseph Mountain, Ned Duke, Chayanee Propst, Darlene Leonard, and Henry Boulding II. The 2023 Changemakers (LEFT from L to R): Wayne Martin, Samantha Dorm, Claudia Salazar, Ashana Taylor, Jazmin B. Simpson, Edouardo Thibault, and Jeff Beard.

07 • WINTER 2024 • The Changemakers

CHANGEMAKERS SUPPORTERS There are many in York County who are supporters of individuals making change for the betterment of our community; however, there are two who have been leading the recognition of the 2024 Changemakers: Comcast and Hollywood Casino York.

COMCAST CORPORATION is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms they provide, to the content and experiences they create, their businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. They deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. comcastcorporation.com HOLLYWOOD CASINO YORK offers a fresh, fun and convenient gaming and entertainment experience for York County and surrounding communities. The casino offers the newest and most innovative slot titles, diverse table games, expansive sports viewing and wagering with The Sportsbook, casual dining, and state-of-the art contactless gaming. hollywoodyorkcasino.com

We talked with Kevin Broadhurst, Vice President of Governmental and Regulatory Affairs, Comcast Keystone and Drew Bartoldson, Director of Marketing, Hollywood Casino, to learn more about why Changemakers mean so much to their organizations.

Q: Why is recognizing Changemakers in our community important to your mission/work?

KEVIN: Changemakers drive innovations that lead to a brighter future for others. This passion aligns with Comcast’s mission to advance a future of unlimited possibilities through Project UP. Project UP is Comcast’s comprehensive $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity and the continuation of the company’s long history of giving back to communities where it provides service and where its employees live and work. Recently, through Talent for Tomorrow: Digital Equity Challenge – a joint initiative of Comcast’s Project UP and the U.S. Conference of Mayors – the City of York received a $75,000 Digital Equity Grant for programming that promotes workforce development and digital literacy.

DREW: It provides an opportunity to align our business with a deeper purpose, allowing us to engage with our communities. We strive to strengthen these ties to the York County communities through empowering team members, creating charitable partnerships, and inspiring others to make a lasting impact.

Q: How do you define "Changemaker”?

KEVIN: Changemakers are those who proactively find opportunities for improvement, implement a plan, and rally supporters along the way to achieve excellence.

DREW: A changemaker is someone who actively seeks to create positive change in their community. It is individuals and organizations who show the drive to address social issues, inspire others, and bring innovative solutions to life. It embodies qualities like empathy, resilience, and the willingness to take risks for the greater good. As an organization, we leverage our team members’ passions to empower others and advocate positive changes that impact our communities. Ultimately, it’s about being part of a collective effort to shape a better future.

Q: What is one thing you want readers to remember about your role in supporting the Changemakers?

KEVIN: From the homes and businesses we serve to our employees who live and work here, we’re proud to be part of the York community and to support programs like this one. We are focused on expanding our network in Pennsylvania, allowing more residents and businesses to engage in the digital economy.

In fact, Comcast is partnering with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to connect more residents in 13 counties in Pennsylvania, including York County. This expansion will bring gigabit-plus speeds to homes and businesses that were previously unserved or underserved with high-speed Internet.

DREW: At Hollywood Casino York, we understand that true success is measured by the legacy we leave behind. That’s why we actively seek innovative solutions to pressing social issues, whether through environmentally conscious practices, supporting local initiatives, or empowering our team and customers to make a difference. As a changemaker, we are committed to fostering a culture of empathy and collaboration.

We believe in the power of collective action, and we encourage everyone—employees, customers, and partners—to join us in this journey. Together, we can inspire others and create a brighter, more equitable future.

Celebrating Individuals Who Make Things Happen In Our Community Join the York County Economic Alliance and Downtown Inc in Honoring: (Back Row, L to R)

KAYODE MALOMO The Creative Transforming lives and conveying a feeling of hope through artistic expressions MARIA J. JÁCOME OTTATI The Advocate Providing support to improve the lives of individuals in York and its future leaders LORETTA CLAIBORNE The Legacy Being an inspiration of determination and resilience for generations all over the world SAKIMA VONGPHAKDY The Entrepreneur Impacting locals through a commitment of positive changes and quality workmanship (Front Row, L to R)

INDIA BANKS The Problem Solver Utilizing skills and hard work to reach solutions that have a positive impact on the community KIMBERLY DOWLING The Motivator Fostering an uplifting and determined community beyond the world of health and fitness RICHARD CRAIGHEAD The Builder Dedicated to empowering members of the community to lead positive lives

09 • WINTER 2024 • The 2024 Changemakers

PRESENTED BY

INDIA BANKS THE PROBLEM S O LV E R

BY HANNAH BEARD | MARKETING & MERCHANT ENGAGEMENT MANAGER, DOWNTOWN INC

“There’s so much opportunity here. The doors do open; we just have to want to walk through them.Whatever talent or dream you have, York needs you to stay and help us grow.” ~ India Banks

10 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • India Banks: The Problem Solver

Behind every well-lit street, functioning traffic light, accessible parking garage, and cleared lot after a snowstorm in York City, a woman ensures it all runs like clockwork. Meet India Banks, the City of York’s Department of Public Works Interim Director.

With a career spanning four decades serving the City of York, India has quietly dedicated herself to solving problems that keep the city moving. Humble by nature, she prefers to work behind the scenes, but her impact is undeniable.

India's journey with the Department of Public Works began in 1984, fresh out of William Penn High School. What started as a temporary job to help with car payments has blossomed into a 40-year commitment to the city she loves. “Good things come out of William Penn. I want people to know that,” she says with pride. Her roles within the department evolved—from receptionist in the Recreation and Parks Department to Interim Director—but her dedication to service has never wavered.

“I wanted to work in the city I lived in. I’m a Bearcat, and here I was, working for York City,” India reflects. “Now, how can I help my city and be an integral part of what’s happening in York?”

Her role today encompasses much more than people might realize. The Department of Public Works is responsible for everything from trash collection and building maintenance to managing parks and ensuring the city’s infrastructure stays in top shape.

“People often assume these things just happen,” India explains, “but it’s Public Works that keeps it all going.

Even the fun side—like the roller-skating rink, ice arena, and Grimes Gym—all come through this office.”

A lifelong York resident, India is deeply connected to the community. She lives in the historic Newton Square neighborhood, where she enjoys walking her favorite parks, like Kiwanis Lake and Farquhar Park. “York has a vibe that’s unmatched,” she says. “It’s a small community with big goals. We’re innovative, welcoming, and not afraid to give things a try.”

In her free time, India stays active within her church community, helping with events and marketing. A true behind-the-scenes leader, she doesn’t seek recognition.

“I make others shine,” she says simply.

Looking to the future, India is excited to see York continue to thrive. “There’s so much opportunity here. The doors do open; we just have to want to walk through them.”

Her advice to young residents is to figure out how they can be part of the change. “Whatever talent or dream you have, York needs you to stay and help us grow.”

With India Banks leading the way, the city is in capable hands—quietly but powerfully shaping York’s future one solution at a time.

11 • WINTER 2024 • The Changemakers

PRESENTED BY

KIMBERLY DOWLING T H E M O T I VAT O R

BY CASEY NIXON | DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Inspirational. Motivational. Uplifting. Encouraging. These are a few of the words used by women in our community to describe Kimberly Dowling, owner of FitByKim. After being furloughed from her job during the pandemic, Kim viewed her situation as an opportunity to turn her health and fitness journey into a career that could help others. During this time of much-needed safe socialization, Kim took to local parks to bring women together through exercise, creating FitByKim. Having built a network of women supporting women, Kim continued to train clients even after going back to work, juggling her passion and her responsibilities.

“This journey has taught me that hard work is the key to achieving anything meaningful.

I live by the mantra, “Nothing works unless you do!”

“Through every obstacle, I’ve found fulfillment in consistently showing up for myself and my goals, and most importantly, my clients,” Kim says.

12 • WINTER 2024 • The Changemakers

~ Kimberly Dowling

In 2021, Kim earned certifications to further expand on the services she can provide her clientele in the areas of personal training and nutritional coaching. However, one of the most impactful things Kim has been able to accomplish through FitByKim is providing women in our community with affordable and accessible healthy lifestyle choices, focusing on not only physical health but also mental well-being.

Having been born and raised in York, PA, Kim enjoys giving back to her community through her work with Bell Socialization Services, Crispus Attucks, and local churches. Considering herself a relationship builder, Kim is also big on collaboration between community members, organizing joint fitness classes with other local trainers. “I understand everyone isn’t going to be a good fit to train with me, so keeping connections with other trainers helps everyone,” Kim says.

The outpouring of support from her clients, mentors, and friends within and outside of the fitness industry highlights the widespread impact Kim has on the York community. Kim’s passion for helping others, bringing people together, and supporting her community have all contributed to being named a 2024 Changemaker.

“To me, a changemaker is someone who can easily adapt to new things coming and changes being made. A changemaker is showing up for the people who show up for you,” Kim says.

Kim is currently offering group training at Roll “R” Way, a nod to another community partnership she’s forged with Frank Quintin. You can join Kim for “Spicy Saturdays,” a HIIT bodyweight class, or during the week for heavy weight training, core training, full body, and targeted training.

Kim is a great supporter of local businesses, so when she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at LMLA spa, grabbing a bite to eat at El Serrano or Penn Market, doing yoga at Hype Studio or Fire Life Yoga, and enjoying community parks like Rocky Ridge and John Rudy.

“This journey has taught me that hard work is the key to achieving anything meaningful. I live by the mantra, “Nothing works unless you do!”

PRESENTED BY

KAYODE MALOMO T H E C R E AT I V E

BY BRONLEY MARTIN | URBAN REVITALIZATION MANAGER, DOWNTOWN INC

The purposes for creating a piece of art are as varied as the art itself and can be difficult to describe, even for the artist creating it. This, however, has never been a problem for local artist Kayode Malomo. “Joy, and bringing joy to others, has always been at the center of my art,” Kayode says.

With a career spanning decades, his work, which masterfully blends themes of light, shadow, and vibrant color, has garnered recognition both locally and internationally. Kayode's artistic journey has been marked by a commitment to celebrating hope, beauty, and the transformative power of education.

Kayode's journey into the art world began in his early years, inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of his upbringing in Nigeria and a natural affinity for visual expression. His first name, Kayode, is a variation on a Yoruba word meaning “He Who Brings Joy,” foreshadowing his artistic vision. His formal education at Temple University is actually in business and accounting, and he has worked in this field alongside his career as an artist. Always seeking to integrate art into his life, the firm where he worked created space throughout their offices to

display Kayode’s art, enhancing connection and conversation with accounting clients. Over the years, he has also participated in numerous exhibitions, including significant showcases at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Prince George's African American Museum and Cultural Center, and the African American Museum of Art in Philadelphia.

Kayode's art is distinguished by its versatility and vibrancy.

His portfolio includes a wide range of mediums, such as acrylic, oil, airbrushing, collage, and mixed media. His pieces often feature bright, intricate patterns that convey messages of happiness and optimism. This distinctive style has not only captured the attention of local art enthusiasts but has also led to high-profile commissions, including works for the President of Nigeria, the Governor of Pennsylvania, and other dignitaries. His art, which is displayed in galleries and private collections across the US, Europe, Africa, and Asia, is a testament to his ability to transcend cultural boundaries and communicate universal themes through his visual storytelling.

15 • WINTER 2024 • The Changemakers

For Kayode, art is more than just a vocation; it is a calling driven by a deep-seated passion to inspire and educate. “I believe in the power of art to evoke positive change and build bridges between diverse communities,” says Kayode. This belief is reflected in his active involvement with various local organizations in York, such as Creative York and Martin Library, where he has collaborated on community-based projects that aim to bring art closer to the people.

After starting a family, Kayode and his wife decided to look for a place to settle down that was convenient for both of their careers and offered more open space for their family. With his business work taking him to Baltimore at the time and his wife working in Harrisburg, York was the natural location to put down roots. Far from being a compromise, they found York incredibly welcoming, and Kayode found numerous outlets for both his art and his commitment to education and community.

He immediately made his talent evident in his numerous local exhibits and projects, which continue to enrich the cultural landscape of York. Kayode attributes part of his success to the mentorship and support he has received from various individuals and organizations throughout his career. He acknowledges the invaluable guidance from established artists and the encouragement from local institutions like Creative York and Ophelia’s Making Agency, which have helped him navigate the complexities of the art world in a new community.

Receiving a Changemaker Award is an immense honor for Kayode. “This award allows me to continue to be a servant leader and utilize my art to positively affect people, transform lives, and create impact for everyone I meet, one person at a time.”

PRESENTED BY

LORETTA CLAIBORNE THE LEGACY

BY MARLENA SCHUGT | BLOOM PROGRAM MANAGER

Many people are familiar with the story of Loretta Claiborne as an athlete superstar, but if you ask Loretta what it’s like being such an icon, she’ll insist she’s “just a Yorker.” Despite Loretta’s incredible accomplishments, including the completion of 26 marathons, winning dozens of Special Olympics medals, holding the current record for women in her age group for the 5000-meter run, and being presented an ESPY Award by Denzel Washington, she remains immensely humble. These accomplishments are even more incredible as Loretta was unable to walk or talk until the age of 4.

Loretta credits her school counselor for first suggesting she participate in the Special Olympics, which further ignited her passion for sports. While she has competed in running, bowling, figure skating, and tennis Olympic events, she also trains in soccer, skiing, golf, basketball, and soccer, just to name a few. Sports have always been important to Loretta, as she sees them as a vehicle to change the world. “There are three things that bring people together: food, music, and sport.”

18 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • Loretta Claiborne – The Legacy

GET TO KNOW LORETTA: SHE CAN COMMUNICATE IN 4 LANGUAGES (ENGLISH, SPANISH, GERMAN, AND ASL) BUT KNOWS GREETINGS IN MANY MORE LANGUAGES. “AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE IS THE LANGUAGE I LOVE BECAUSE I CAN USE IT ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD,” SHARES LORETTA. HER FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IS THE BREAKFAST STORE IN PENN MARKET. LORETTA HAS TRAVELED TO AN UNFATHOMABLE NUMBER OF COUNTIES AND STATES, BUT SHE REALLY HOPES TO SEE MOUNT RUSHMORE, THE GRAND CANYON, AND OTHER WONDERS OF THE UNITED STATES. SHE LOVES CHOIR MUSIC, WITH THE AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR BEING ONE OF HER FAVORITES.

In addition to her time training on the track and for a variety of sports, Loretta has consistently made time to give back to her community.

Loretta knows some people talk about leaving York, but she has always wanted to stay, keep York close to her heart, and “try to make York better, do something for the kids.”

From utilizing her hobby of knitting to make hats for premature babies in local hospitals to teaching physical health & wellness classes throughout the region, Loretta knows that giving back “…doesn’t take a lot. It might take time, but time costs more than any money.”

Loretta knows that time is important, and with her limited free time, she is intentional with how she spends it. She ensures she makes time to exercise, usually at a local YMCA class or with a run around the city. “My health is my wealth, and if I have my health, I have wealth to give.”

PRESENTED BY

SAKIMA VONGPHAKDY THE ENTREPRENEUR

BY KATIE MAHONEY I CHIEF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

SV Contracting is built around phrases like “making the world a better place” and “your dream remodel, our story” because they care about one thing – making their clients happy and doing it correctly.

“I’m proud of everything I do. We take a lot of pride in our work,” explains founder Sakima Vongphakdy. “It’s part of why people love us so much. We make our clients happy, not just content, or ok. Happy. We don’t cut corners, we do everything by the book, and then some if possible.”

With that as a guiding principle, Sakima took the leap into entrepreneurship in 2022 after almost a decade of working in the industry for others. “You’re living paycheck to paycheck, having to be at a certain place for amount certain time, and you have enough of it one day,” he explains. “A lot of people spend half their lives in the trades. I know people doing the same thing day to day, who didn’t have enough faith in themselves to take the leap to do more or to do better for themselves. That’s true for everyone, not just the trades.”

Taking the leap has paid off for Sakima, with word of mouth keeping the Dover-based company busy year-round. SV Contracting does it all – from framing and decking, to masonry, electrical and plumbing, and more, for commercial and residential customers. “Give me some money and a plot of land and I can do the rest,” says Sakima. They recently did a significant amount of the work converting the former Sheraton Hotel in New Cumberland into ReVi Harrisburg Studio Suite Apartments and also worked on renovations for Scozzaro’s Old Mill Inn in New Oxford. “You gotta find something you’re good at and enjoy, and I’m really good at this,” he shares as motivation to start his own company, along with the volume of calls he received. “Enough people started calling me and needing me. I showed up, I did good work. And the rest is history.”

Sakima’s focus on customer happiness and dedication to doing the best job possible is engrained in him. “All we can do at the end of the day is try to make the world a better place – it’s the way I look at everything,” he shares.

“Somebody calls you looking for help, I’ll do everything I can to help them, make it better than the way I found it. It’s the way I was raised, the way I was taught.”

When asked what it means to be called a “changemaker” he ties it back to his company motto. “Making the world a better place, being the change. If everyone is against you, don’t be like everyone else, be something different, do something different. Take the leap of faith and believe in yourself and do what you want to make yourself happy.

There are realistic guidelines and bills to pay, but it’s not impossible, the only thing stopping you is fear and common sense – just go do it.”

21 • WINTER 2024 • The Changemakers

“All we can do at the end of the day is try to make the world a better place – it’s the way I look at everything.” ~ Sakima Vongphakdy

PRESENTED BY

MARIA J. JÁCOME OTTATI T H E A D V O C AT E

BY MEGAN KREISER I ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, EVENTS

Serving her community has been the driving force behind Maria Jácome’s life and career in York County. Born in Ecuador, she moved to York with her parents and sister when she was nine years old, seeking a brighter future filled with opportunities while sacrificing their comfort and stability for the chance at a better life. These sacrifices laid the foundation for Maria's unwavering commitment to serving her community. “Giving back and serving the community has been instilled in me since a very young age, and it feels like it’s a way to honor my parents’ sacrifices they made for me,” mentions Maria.

Maria grew up in a large, close-knit family supported by strong community ties. Her church, family, and friends became her lifelines, providing a sense of belonging that made her transition to a new culture more manageable.

With her father serving as a pastor in a local church, Maria was able to form friendships with other children who attended. Although she faced challenges in communicating with her teachers, she never felt alone. The bonds she formed with her family and community nurtured her spirit and instilled in her the values of service and compassion.

Maria pursued higher education at Millersville University, where she majored in anthropology and minored in biology.

She learned early on that life rarely follows a straight path, but within those twists and turns lie opportunities for growth and learning – an understanding that would be a guiding principle in her professional life.

Upon graduating, Maria embarked on a career at Family First Health, where she quickly rose from a medical receptionist to a supervisor. Here, she honed her leadership skills, recognizing that healthcare is not just about treating patients but also about fostering community well-being.

For Maria, giving back is more than a job; it’s a calling.

She found her niche in community work, where she could truly make a difference in the lives of those around her.

Now, as the Program Manager for the Community Progress Council’s Community of Hope, a role she has held for nearly three years, Maria leads initiatives aimed at supporting families and students in the Hannah Penn neighborhood. This school-based Family Resource Center is a hub of all the different services available through the Community Progress Council for this neighborhood. Collaboration is key to this work, as she partners with local organizations to address the unique needs of families, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive. Maria has worked tirelessly to create a safe space for families, emphasizing the importance of building trust and relationships within the school community.

With approximately 60% of the students at Hannah Penn speaking Spanish, Maria prioritizes hiring staff who reflect the community they serve. This representation fosters a sense of trust and connection, breaking down barriers that often hinder families from seeking help. Maria’s commitment to inclusivity extends to other languages, as she recognizes the need for Haitian and Creole speakers to serve the diverse community better.

24 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • Maria J. Jácome Ottati – The Advocate

Beyond her immediate work, Maria’s passion for serving her community is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Her parents instilled in her the values of generosity and support, encouraging her to volunteer from a young age. This commitment continues through her involvement with the York County Hispanic Coalition and church activities, reinforcing the importance of community connections.

Looking ahead, Maria aspires to expand her program’s reach, helping even more families in the Hannah Penn area. She is also pursuing a master’s degree in data analytics, emphasizing the significance of data-driven decision- making to enhance program effectiveness.

With her eyes on the future, Maria understands the balance between setting goals and enjoying the journey, reminding herself that the path to success often holds its own lessons.

Maria's story is not just about her achievements; it’s about the impact of her work and the legacy she aims to leave behind. She honors her parents' sacrifices by striving to make a difference, embodying the values they imparted.

PRESENTED B Y

RICHARD CRAIGHEAD THE BUILDER

BY BRENDAN SALYARDS | MANAGER, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

The builder that Richard Craighead is today, both for his profession and work within the community, goes back to his family and the experiences his parents showed him. Born in Lancaster, Richard’s family moved to York soon after his birth, and he and his family quickly became part of the fabric of the York community. His mother was a community leader, organizing clean-ups of their block on Duke and Maple where he lived, and secured grant funding to install gates to the alleyways for community members. He participated in the programming offered by Crispus Attucks and was greatly influenced by mentors there.

Richard’s father worked in the construction industry, and Richard gained experience as a kid helping his father with remodeling projects. After graduating from William Penn High School, Richard attended Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, where he studied carpentry. He previously worked for the City of York and a construction company before opening his own business in 2020, Rich and Sons Construction.

Richard is a business owner, but he also strives to make a broader impact through his community involvement and non-profit leadership. Through his involvement with the Boys Club of York (BYC), where he serves as President/Head Coach, BYC provides a formative experience for the hundreds of children who participate in its sports and recreational programming. In the coming months, they will have monthly meetings and activities to provide consistent touchpoints, even in the off-season. BYC recently renewed its nonprofit status to facilitate the goal of raising $100,000 to expand the breadth of activities and events offered.

Earlier this year, as chair of the Racial Justice Committee for the YWCA of York, he supported the organizing of the inaugural State of Black Life Summit, which explored the past, present, and future of Black life in the City of York. The Racial Justice Committee also organized a panel discussion with each of the candidates for the 95th State House District and a series of events focused on Black Maternal Health, with additional events being organized in February with a month-long weekly event for the annual Black Life in York Summit, culminating in a gala at the end of the month.

“Talking is important. It helps to change the mentality and shapes the way that you deal with things around you. Your mindset creates what you can do.” ~ Richard Craighead

Though Richard continues to support his community, he has one thing he’d like to continue to change about York: “I would help create equity of the mind, changing the subconscious thoughts that people have. Laws and regulations may not always work because of loopholes, but if everyone approached things with an equitable state of mind, it would impact the whole community.”

For those members of the community who want to support, Richard has some advice: “Show up and continue to do that. Talking is important. It helps to change the mentality and shapes the way that you deal with things around you. Your mindset creates what you can do.”

Inclusive Arts York, of which Richard is a founder, works to change mindsets and empower York’s Black community and has organized meaningful events, including the showing of films such as 13th and documentaries on Black self- confidence and expression of feelings. The organization also created short films of its own, such as I Am, a portrait of black men that sought to break down stereotypes about the lives of Black men in York. Inclusive Arts York also organized a photo series called Assemblage, which highlighted Black and brown people in their greatness while empowering them and breaking down stereotypes.

Richard Craighead is a father, a business owner, a coach, a nonprofit leader, an artist, and a Changemaker.

While these numerous titles highlight the extent of his community involvement, the title of 'father' is the most meaningful to him. He is driven by a passion to make change and improve opportunities for his two sons and the many sons and daughters throughout our community.

“Everything I do is for my kids, to improve the community for them, and to show them that they can make an impact.”

28 • YoCo Connect & Downtown York • Richard Craighead – The Builder

E V E N T S

For details, visit YCEAPA.org Tuesday, January 7 Re-Writing our Narrative as Empowered Women, a WBCO Luncheon Series Event presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resorts Terrace Room, 11:30 am – 1 pm Thursday, January 30 WBCO Summit presented by UPMC Out Door Country Club, 8 am – 12 pm

For details, visit DowntownYorkPA.com Friday, January 3 First Friday presented by WellSpan Health Downtown York, 5 – 9 pm Saturday, April 19 Go Green in the City Downtown York, 10 am – 3 pm

4.3.25 SHOWCASING YOCO: THE YCEA KEYNOTE EVENT Presented by WellSpan Health, join members of the YoCo community in celebrating individuals who have gone above and beyond in business, community, and philanthropic endeavors. Learn more at YCEApa.org.

144 Roosevelt Avenue York, PA 17401