Info Session

Addelin Ceballos is a dedicated Business District Manager at HACE in Philadelphia's Fairhill and St Hugh neighborhoods, where she coordinates commercial corridor economic development activities. With a Bachelor's in Business Administration and a minor in Health Services Administration from Monroe College, Addelin brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning and community impact to her role. Her professional journey includes positions as a Financial Aid Counselor and School of IT Office Coordinator at Monroe College, and experience in tax preparation, having worked as a Senior Tax Preparer & Site Manager at Ariva, Inc. and as a Tax Preparer at Colvin Tax Service. Fluent in Spanish and English, she excels in fostering relationships with business owners, funders, partners, and city officials.

Amarynth Ruch is the Corridor Manager for the Tacony Community Development Corporation and serves the Torresdale Avenue Commercial Corridor. Amarynth has been involved with the Tacony neighborhood of Philadelphia since the Summer of 2021, when she began an internship at the Tacony Library. After completing her BA in Communications and Social Influence at Temple University, she remained in the neighborhood working part time for the Tacony CDC and the Free Library of Philadelphia and establishing herself as a valuable asset to various neighborhood organizations, including the Tacony Historical Society. She began her position as the full-time Corridor Manager in the Spring of 2024, and can be found all over the neighborhood engaging with businesses and residents alike.

Aubrey joined Germantown United CDC in the Spring of 2024. While studying graphic design at the University of the Arts, she gained hands-on marketing experience with organizations such as Mural Arts Philadelphia, WXPN, and Quirk Books. After graduating, she worked as the Marketing & Communications Manager for the Bok Building in South Philadelphia. There, she supported the growth of the nearly 300 artists, small businesses, and nonprofits housed in the building. In 2020, Aubrey started her own freelance design studio specializing in branding, web design, and small business marketing strategy. Over the last four years, she’s collaborated with entrepreneurs across industries to implement marketing efforts that bolster their businesses. At GU, Aubrey aims to offer practical, thoughtful, and creative marketing support to the many small businesses that exist in the neighborhood.

Dominic Brennan is SEAMAAC's Community Building Coordinator. Joining SEAMAAC as the Volunteer Coordinator in 2020, Dom worked closely with all of the departments, including Community Development. In January of 2024, he switched departments to join the Community Development team full-time as the Community Building Coordinator. With a background in environmental science, Dom has been very active in SEAMAAC's Growing Home Gardens program, as well as the beautification projects along the South 7th Street Corridor. With nearly 10 years of experience with community outreach and organizing, Dom has already planned some town halls, a large festival, and looks forward to more!

Donnell Brown is the 52nd Street Corridor Manager at The Enterprise Center CDC in Philadelphia, where he plays a vital role in revitalizing "West Philly's Main Street." With a diverse background in facility management and community development, Donnell brings over 15 years of experience to his current position. He holds a Neighbor Works America Executive Certification in Community Leadership and is a certified Tree Tender and Facility Manager. Donnell's expertise spans from managing large-scale physical improvement projects to fostering relationships with over 325 local businesses and residents. His commitment to the Walnut Hill community has been instrumental in driving positive change. Donnell's volunteer work with the Red Cross and UC Green further exemplifies his passion for serving his community.

Mónica Parrilla is a proud Hunting Park, North Philadelphia resident, and a dedicated mother of four. Her journey has been defined by a commitment to her community and a passion for small businesses. In 2016, Mónica and her husban took the bold step of becoming owners of Marz Auto Central, an enterprise that reflects their dedication to entrepreneurship. Before starting her role at Esperanza as a Corridor Manager serving 5th Street and Wyoming Ave in Hunting Park, she served as President of the Hunting Park Business Association for 10 years. Previous professional roles include National Field Director of the National Council of La Raza Action Fund, and private sector positions in accounting, auditing, and credit services. Mónica currently serves on the PA Governor's Commission for Latino Affairs, and has also held volunteer leadership roles as Board President of The Lighthouse and policy advisor for the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Her educational background includes an undergraduate degree in International Business and Finance from Temple University, where she is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Policy.

Samantha Thompson, Operations and Events Coordinator at South Street Headhouse District, is a recent graduate of Lehigh University with a B.S. in Business and Economic in Marketing and a minor in Graphic Design. Samantha brings fresh perspectives to community development and event management. Despite her Connecticut roots, Samantha has embraced Philadelphia as her new home. Her diverse background in marketing, video production, and social media management enables her to create engaging content and execute successful events. She held several volunteer leadership positions at Lehigh University. At South Street Headhouse District, Samantha works hands-on with local business owners, helping them realize their aspirations while contributing to the area's economic vitality. Her creativity and enthusiasm for learning contribute to the organization's goals of creating a thriving environment for businesses and residents alike.