Southwest CDC created the Southwest Pride Day Parade and Festival in 1998. District Attorney Lynn Abraham, Mayor Edward Rendell, Councilwomen Anna Verna and Jannie Blackwell and State Representative James Roebuck walk along Southwest CDC Board Members Oscar Harris, Carl Forcillo and Margaret Williams at the first parade, now an annual event.
Board and Leadership
Leadership
Donna M. Henry
Executive Director
Donna M. Henry has been the executive director since 1994. Under her leadership, the organization has quadrupled in programs and the budget has increased seven-fold. Donna has worked in the field of housing, community and economic development since 1987. Donna has a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture and a Master of Science degree in Community Economic Development.
Contact information: 215-729-7441 or Email
Lorraine Thomas
Operations Manager
Lorraine Thomas has been the operation manager since 2011 and brings nearly 30 years experience of being a community leader in Southwest who has been dubbed the “Mayor of Southwest”. She has been responsible for many community partnerships over the years. Lorraine is responsible for the daily operations and ensures that staff has the resources and information they need to help the community.Contact information: 215-729-3948 or Email
Board
Malcolm J. Yates
Chair
Allavertta Kirkand
Member
Daniel Bryan
Assistant Treasurer
Gregory Benjamin
Member
Rita Carr
Secretary
Lew Friedrich
Treasurer
Paulette Royster
Vice Chair
Malina Williams
Member
Lisa White
Member
Aisha Glenn
Member
Adriane Parks
Member