Foundation President and CEO Tamela Luce delivered the following statement to attendees at the 2025 Grant Kickoff Forum on April 9.
To our Community Members,
We see you. We see your worry, worry about the unknown that seeps beyond your workday.
We see the hate and the division that’s permeated our society.
We see the intimidation of our black, brown, immigrant, refugee, and LGBTQ neighbors. The derision of those living in poverty, and those experiencing homelessness. We see the folks living on the edge who may be fine now but may not be tomorrow.
We see the threats of funding cuts and uncertainty with how that will impact the crucial services you provide.
We see you.
We see the mental toll this is taking on you and your colleagues, your boards, your volunteers, and those you serve.
We see you.
And we want you to know that we stand with you.
We stand in our vigilance to make sure that Phoenixville remains one of the healthiest places in Pennsylvania.
We stand firm in our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, because none of us thrives unless ALL of us thrive.
We stand in our resolve to practice trust-based philanthropy, building and strengthening our relationships with you so that we can work together to solve problems and make the greater Phoenixville region more resilient.
We stand in our conviction to being available when you need us. To hear your feedback, to answer your questions, to make connections, and to listen.
We stand in our dedication to providing support – through grants, convenings, capacity building opportunities, technical assistance, and fellowship – so you can continue to provide vital social services.
This community survived COVID. This community rebuilt Mont Clare and Port Providence after Hurricane Ida. This community is tough and compassionate, and we know how to take care of one another.
The future may look uncertain, and the weeks and months ahead may be hard. But we will get through this the same way we always have: by coming together, supporting one another, and lifting up this amazing community. We need you. This community needs you. We must remember to take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others. We are Phoenixville, and like the legendary bird we were named after, we will rise.
