PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Urban Affairs Coalition (UAC) will celebrate more than a half-century of driving change in the Philadelphia region at its 53rd Anniversary Breakfast and Networking Event on Friday, November 18, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
This annual event convenes decision-makers from across the city, connecting business, government, and nonprofits in support of UAC’s mission of improving the quality of life for Philadelphians by addressing the biggest problems facing urban communities, especially among our most vulnerable populations.
The Coalition’s more than 160+ program partners and community-based initiatives are on the frontlines in Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, working collectively on systemic issues ranging from housing to healthcare, youth opportunity, and economic development, as well as violence and poverty prevention and addiction treatment.
“For more than half a century, partnership has been at the core of who we are and our commitment to ensuring that organizations both large and small get the support they need to increase equality and success in our communities,” said Sharmain Matlock-Turner, CEO of UAC. “We are Doers and Dreamers, united by the belief that our continued impact is magnified through our collective efforts, more than any one individual or organization can do alone.”
Nearly 1,000 guests are expected to attend this year’s breakfast (in person for the first time since the pandemic). The theme – Empowering Doers and Dreamers – honors those who are advancing UAC’s vision of driving real change through their shared commitment to positively transforming Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. UAC is thrilled to announce the following recipients of its 2022 “Doer,” Living Legacy, Community Leadership, and Founders’ Awards:
“Doer” Award, representing the spirit of the Coalition and personifying UAC’s “home of Doers and Dreamers,” is presented to a leader who’s making things happen and creating opportunity for all.
· Recipient: Ryan N. Boyer, business manager, Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council
Living Legacy Award is presented to a local community leader whose exceptional contributions to the quality of life in the Greater Philadelphia region is making Philadelphia’s communities a better place to live, work and play.
· Recipient: Susan Jacobson, president, Jacobson Strategic Communications
Community Leadership Award is presented in recognition of visionary leadership and commitment to foster the Coalition’s mission of improving life chances for youth and young adults, building wealth in urban communities, and strengthening the nonprofit sector.
· Recipient: Kelly Woodland, managing director - Leadership Equity, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.
Founders’ Award recognizes UAC partners for their distinguished, long-term service to the Coalition and its communities, rooted in the principals of its founders.
· Recipient: UGI Corporation/Roger Perreault, president
Serving as Mistress of Ceremonies for UAC’s 53rd Anniversary Breakfast will be Niki Hawkins, Vice President of Community Engagement for Philadelphia’s 6abc. Distinguished speakers include Congressman Dwight Evans (in whose honor the Living Legacy Award was created) and Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. Musical entertainment will be provided by local jazz singer Romona (who also serves as Director of Corporate and Community Impact at PECO Energy).
UAC thanks all of its sponsors and year-round supporters for their contributions. This year, our sponsors contributed more than half a million dollars to UAC’s 53rd Anniversary Breakfast. A special thanks goes to Merck & Co. Inc, J.P. Morgan Chase, Independence Blue Cross, Lima Consulting Group, Comcast NBCUniversal, PECO, AmeriHealth Caritas and the Philadelphia Eagles for their generous support.
Join the Coalition on Friday, November 18, beginning at 7:45 a.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center Grand Ballroom (1101 Arch Street) to honor all the Doers and Dreamers who are making a difference, and network with business professionals and entrepreneurs. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available here.
About the Urban Affairs Coalition
The Urban Affairs Coalition unites government, business, neighborhoods, and individual initiatives to improve the quality of life in the region, build wealth in urban communities, and solve emerging issues. Please visit uac.org for more information about the ongoing work of the Coalition.
