Philadelphia Community Podcast

Today, we're honored to sit down with families from Cohort 16 of the FACT Program—Fathers and Children Together. FACT is a program rooted in strengthening bonds, building communication, and creating lasting connections between men behind the walls at SCI Phoenix and their children. Joining us today are two incredible families who have been actively participating in this journey.We welcome Elizabeth Smith and her daughter Ariyel Smith-Forth, as well as Tru Davis, and his mom Joi Reeves.   ach of these families brings a unique perspective on growth, resilience, and the power of intentional family time. We're excited to hear about their experiences—what they've learned, how they've grown, and what FACT has meant to them.Learn more about the impactful work of the F.A.C.T. Experience at factexperience.org.  

Today, we're honored to sit down with families from Cohort 16 of the FACT Program—Fathers and Children Together. FACT is a program rooted in strengthening bonds, building communication, and creating lasting connections between men behind the walls at SCI Phoenix and their children. Joining us today are two incredible families who have been actively participating in this journey.We welcome Elizabeth Smith and her daughter Ariyel Smith-Forth, as well as Tru Davis, and his mom Joi Reeves.   ach of these families brings a unique perspective on growth, resilience, and the power of intentional family time. We're excited to hear about their experiences—what they've learned, how they've grown, and what FACT has meant to them.Learn more about the impactful work of the F.A.C.T. Experience at factexperience.org.  

Today we're joined by Carolina Vargas, Director of Marketing for Philadelphia Theatre Company. Originally from Mexico, Carolina is a seasoned marketing professional and graphic designer with nine years of experience crafting creative strategies that drive engagement and audience growth. She's here to share details about Havana Hop, a joyful, family-friendly performance coming to PTC over MLK Weekend — a show filled with music, dance, and a celebration of Cuban roots, including a special Relaxed Performance sponsored by Popcorn for the People.  Website & Socials Website: philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/havana-hopInstagram: @philatheatrecoFacebook: @philatheatrecoTikTok: @philatheatreLinkedIn: Philadelphia Theatre Company

On today's episode of What's Going On, we spotlight community giving and innovative approaches to better health, featuring two powerful conversations making a real difference in Philadelphia. Rodney McLeod & Change Our Future Holiday GiveawayWe begin with former Philadelphia Eagle and Super Bowl champion Rodney McLeod and his wife Erika, who continue their commitment to service through their nonprofit, Change Our Future. This holiday season, they are expanding their impact by adopting 10 families and providing 250 Philadelphia children with winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves, toys, and food. Rodney shares the inspiration behind the organization and details their upcoming holiday giveaway designed to support families during the coldest months of the year.Event Details

Free Holiday Giveaway in Bridgeton, New JerseyNext, we head to Bridgeton, NJ, where Tony Hill, founder of Games on the Go Mobile Entertainment and the Keeping Young Minds Occupied Foundation (KYMO), is leading a massive holiday celebration for families in Cumberland and Salem Counties. Partnering with Santa, Games on the Go, KYMO, and the Bridgeton Auto Mall, this free holiday giveaway includes toys, sneakers, food, games, face painting, a DJ, photo ops with the Grinch, and more—bringing joy, connection, and community togetherness.Event Details

Today, we're spotlighting women-owned businesses and the power of collaboration in Chester, Pennsylvania. I'm joined by Janell Johnson, founder of The Suite by J. Nicole & Co., and Bria Graves, owner of Tru Breeze Candlez—both located inside The Marketplace at 2300 West 4th Street in Chester. The Suite by J. Nicole & Co. is more than a boutique—it's a shared retail space designed to uplift and support local entrepreneurs across fashion, beauty, wellness, and home décor. Brands featured include apparel lines such as Tuff Kitten, Confidently Me Boutique, and Keelicious Boutique; candle brands Tru Breeze Candlez and Love Naa Signature Scents; accessories from FlawsN All Beauty, Intisar & Co., and Shady Things; bath and body products from Nine26 Naturals and Camilla's Healing Touch; home décor and gifts from Suite 828 and Monumental Moments Greeting Cards; and fresh juices from Pressed with Purpose.Together, these businesses represent creativity, resilience, and economic growth—and show how collaboration can open doors, build community, and strengthen local economies in the city ofChester. Visit & SupportThe Suite by J. Nicole & Co. and Tru Breeze Candlez are located inside The Marketplace, 2300 West 4th Street, Chester, PA. Follow & Shop OnlineThe Suite by J. Nicole & Co.Instagram: @TheSuite.ByJWebsite: www.JNicoleRetail.comTru Breeze CandlezInstagram: @trubreeze2.0Website: www.trubreezecandlez.com

Chase Community Center-Branch – West Philadelphia We're joined by Tanyika Rickard, Vice President & Community Manager for the Philadelphia market at J.P. Morgan Chase, to discuss how the Chase West Philadelphia Community Center is redefining what a bank can be. Based at the community center, Tanyika shares how this innovative space serves as a true neighborhood hub—supporting financial health, homeownership, small-business growth, and expanded access to resources for Black and Latino residents in West Philadelphia.   Connect & learn more: Chase West Philadelphia Community Center

On this episode, we're joined by Angela Giampolo of Giampolo Law for our monthly SpeakOUT segment, which explores issues impacting the LGBTQIA+ community and how they intersect with the broader population. Angela breaks down current trends affecting the LGBTQIA+ community, including healthcare access and job discrimination, and discusses alarming new legislation that could have serious implications for people with dual citizenship—or those considering applying for that status.  But first, we shine a light on Christmas Babies, a holiday initiative founded by Philadelphia Police Officer Ashley Capaldi, an 18-year veteran who mobilizes fellow officers and community volunteers to deliver hundreds of Christmas gifts to families in the Kensington neighborhood. Through a partnership with SWAT, LaLa's Winter Wonderland, and local community leaders, Christmas Babies continues to grow—meeting urgent needs and spreading joy during the holiday season. You can help support families in need by visiting www.christmasbabies.com. Together, we can help ensure every child experiences the magic, joy, and love of the holidays.  Learn more & connect with Angela Giampolo / Giampolo Law:

Segment 1: Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church & Bells Across PA We speak with Reverend Carolyn Cavaness, Pastor of Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church—the oldest continuously Black-owned church property in the United States and the church founded by Bishop Richard Allen. As the first woman to lead this historic congregation, Reverend Cavaness discusses the unveiling of the Bells Across PA sculpture at Mother Bethel, part of the America 250PA initiative marking the nation's 250th anniversary. Created by Philadelphia artist Gail Gaines, the bell reflects Mother Bethel's enduring legacy of faith, freedom, and social justice.Learn more:

On this episode, we're joined by Dwuan Gandy II, creative director and communications leader with You Deserve More Media (YDMM)—a full-service media, storytelling, and public relations company committed to elevating nonprofits, grassroots leaders, and underserved communities through strategy-driven messaging and culture-forward content. Dwuan shares why equitable storytelling matters, what organizations get wrong about visibility, and how YDMM helps mission-driven work cut through the noise and reach the people it's meant to serve.

On today's episode, we're joined by Philadelphia Councilmember Nina Ahmad, who is leading a critical new initiative to combat human trafficking across the city. Her proposed legislation—developed in partnership with the Red Card Philly campaigns call for a multilingual, citywide public-education effort featuring posters, PSAs, social media messaging, and outreach in transportation hubs and other high-traffic areas. With a proposed $500,000 investment, the goal is to equip residents, workers, and visitors with the tools to recognize the signs of human trafficking, report concerns safely and support the protection of vulnerable individuals. Councilmember Ahmad discusses why this initiative is urgently needed, how language accessibility strengthens the campaign's reach, and the key community and advocacy partners helping to drive this work. Listeners will also learn practical ways to stay informed, report suspected trafficking and engage in anti-trafficking efforts in their own neighborhoods.

On today's episode, we're joined by Philadelphia Councilmember Nina Ahmad, who is leading a critical new initiative to combat human trafficking across the city. Her proposed legislation—developed in partnership with the Red Card Philly campaigns call for a multilingual, citywide public-education effort featuring posters, PSAs, social media messaging, and outreach in transportation hubs and other high-traffic areas. With a proposed $500,000 investment, the goal is to equip residents, workers, and visitors with the tools to recognize the signs of human trafficking, report concerns safely and support the protection of vulnerable individuals. Councilmember Ahmad discusses why this initiative is urgently needed, how language accessibility strengthens the campaign's reach, and the key community and advocacy partners helping to drive this work. Listeners will also learn practical ways to stay informed, report suspected trafficking and engage in anti-trafficking efforts in their own neighborhoods.

We bring you VLS Journeys, the monthly literary and cultural spotlight on Insight, hosted by Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati. Once a month, we explore the journeys of authors, thinkers, and creators shaping our world through story and scholarship. Today, we're honored to welcome Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz — award-winning author, educator, and producer. Dr. Shabazz has written five acclaimed historical novels, served as project advisor for the PBS award-winning documentary Prince Among Slaves, and is currently producing a television series based on her latest book, The Awakening of Malcolm X, with Sony Pictures Television and Tri-Star. She also has a new book coming in 2026 with Legacy Lit at Hachette Book Group. We've invited her today to talk about a deeply meaningful upcoming event — a one-night-only celebration at Symphony Space in New York, honoring the 100th anniversary of Malcolm X's birth.On December 11, Symphony Space presents Malcolm X Centenary: A Celebration, led by journalist Jelani Cobb, featuring readings by Emmy Award–winning actor Joe Morton, and a dialogue with Pulitzer Prize winners Nikole Hannah-Jones and James Ijames, alongside Dr. Shabazz. The evening also celebrates the release of the newly updated edition of The Autobiography of Malcolm X. Event Information:

Today we're joined by Dr. Alycia Marshall, the newly appointed seventh president of Community College of Philadelphia. A mathematician, educator, and nationally respected community college leader, Dr. Marshall previously served as CCP's provost and interim president. She steps into this role with a clear vision for expanding access, strengthening student success, and deepening the College's impact across the city. Under her leadership, CCP continues to be a powerful engine of opportunity, workforce development, and economic mobility for Philadelphia's diverse learners.

Today we're joined by Dr. Alycia Marshall, the newly appointed seventh president of Community College of Philadelphia. A mathematician, educator, and nationally respected community college leader, Dr. Marshall previously served as CCP's provost and interim president. She steps into this role with a clear vision for expanding access, strengthening student success, and deepening the College's impact across the city. Under her leadership, CCP continues to be a powerful engine of opportunity, workforce development, and economic mobility for Philadelphia's diverse learners.

The Affordable Care Act's tax credits have made dependable health coverage possible for millions of families, seniors, patients, and small business owners. But those vital subsidies are set to expire unless Congress acts in the coming weeks. Today is Katie Berge, Senior Director of Federal Affairs at Blood Cancer United — formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — the largest global nonprofit supporting blood cancer patients through research, patient services, and strong federal advocacy. Katie also works closely with Keep Americans Covered, a national coalition fighting to preserve the ACA's enhanced premium tax credits to ensure coverage remains affordable for millions. She's here to break down what's at stake, who will be affected, and why this moment is so critical.

The holidays are right around the corner, and finding the perfect gift can be a challenge — but Fine Wine & Good Spirits makes it easy to surprise and delight everyone on your list. Joining us is  Russell Johnson, Wine Specialist at Fine Wine & Good Spirits, to share smart and festive gift ideas for wine and spirit lovers this season.

The holidays are right around the corner, and finding the perfect gift can be a challenge — but Fine Wine & Good Spirits makes it easy to surprise and delight everyone on your list. Joining us is, Russell Johnson, Wine Specialist at Fine Wine & Good Spirits, to share smart and festive gift ideas for wine and spirit lovers this season.

As temperatures drop, the risk of home fires rises — especially in communities where space heaters, extension cords, and older heating systems are part of everyday life. Ensuring families stay safe is a year-round mission for the Philadelphia Housing Authority, and this season they're teaming up with the United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey through the United We Prepare initiative to bring fire-safety education and resources directly to residents. Joining us is Lisa A. Desamour, Fire Safety Compliance Manager for the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA), to discuss the most common fire risks during the colder months, what families can do right now to prevent fires, and how PHA's partnership with United Way is helping communities prepare, stay informed, and stay safe. Isa also shares practical safety tips, new initiatives rolling out this winter, and how residents can access free workshops and resources.

Each November, Gift of Life Donor Sabbath brings together faith leaders from diverse traditions to share a vital message: organ and tissue donation is an act of love, compassion, and charity. All major religions in the United States support donation as a selfless gift that saves lives.   Joining us for this inspiring conversation are:  Imam Dr. Raymond Brock-Murray, Masjid Baitul Nasr Pastor Charles Leonard, Saint Mark's Church Rabbi Michael Singer, Congregation Brith Sholom Cynthia Slater, donor mother and advocate Yvette Mason, two-time liver recipient   Together, they explore how faith traditions uplift the lifesaving mission of donation, how spiritual leaders guide families through difficult decisions, and why communities of color — especially those disproportionately affected — benefit deeply from trusted faith voices championing this cause.  As always, we close with an invitation to take action: During Donor Sabbath this November, have the conversation with your loved ones and consider registering as an organ donor at donors1.org. Through collective compassion and courage, we can offer hope, healing, and the gift of life.   Gift of Life Donor Program / Donor Sabbath Website: www.donors1.org — “Gift of Life Donor Sabbath” page. Gift of Life Donor SabbathFacebook: Gift of Life Donor Program – FB page Facebook+1Instagram: @donors1  

October Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be behind us, but the fight against breast cancer continues every day. With 1 in 8 women in the U.S. expected to develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, early detection remains one of the most powerful tools we have — reducing the risk of death by more than 30%. Joining us is Jennifer Pantleo, Certified Breast Care Nurse and Vice President of Clinical Programs at Solis Mammography, a national leader in breast health services for nearly 40 years. Jennifer shares how Solis Mammography's partnership with Jefferson Health is expanding access across the Philadelphia region, how AI-enhanced 3D imaging is improving early detection, and why staying on top of annual screenings can be lifesaving. We'll also highlight the new Jefferson Health–Solis center in Flourtown and how listeners can schedule their appointments.  

In our first segment, we welcome Sharif El-Mekki, Founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development (CBED) — a nationally recognized leader working to rebuild the Black teacher pipeline and advance educational equity. With more than 25 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and movement-builder, Sharif shares how CBED is transforming the educational landscape through professional learning rooted in racial justice, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy. We also highlight BMEC2025 — the Black Men Educators Convening happening November 20, 2025, a powerful gathering for Black educators and allies committed to systems change.  Website: www.thecenterblacked.orgX (formerly Twitter): @centerblackedInstagram: @centerblackedFacebook: CenterBlackEd YouTube: The Center for Black Educator Development (channel) youtube.com We then turn to an extraordinary annual tradition that blends faith, humanity, and healing. Each November, Gift of Life Donor Sabbath brings together faith leaders from diverse traditions to share a vital message: organ and tissue donation is an act of love, compassion, and charity. All major religions in the United States support donation as a selfless gift that saves lives.   Joining us for this inspiring conversation are:  Imam Dr. Raymond Brock-Murray, Masjid Baitul Nasr Pastor Charles Leonard, Saint Mark's Church Rabbi Michael Singer, Congregation Brith Sholom Cynthia Slater, donor mother and advocate Yvette Mason, two-time liver recipient   Together, they explore how faith traditions uplift the lifesaving mission of donation, how spiritual leaders guide families through difficult decisions, and why communities of color — especially those disproportionately affected — benefit deeply from trusted faith voices championing this cause.  As always, we close with an invitation to take action: During Donor Sabbath this November, have the conversation with your loved ones and consider registering as an organ donor at donors1.org. Through collective compassion and courage, we can offer hope, healing, and the gift of life.   Gift of Life Donor Program / Donor Sabbath Website: www.donors1.org — specifically their “Gift of Life Donor Sabbath” page. Gift of Life Donor SabbathFacebook: Gift of Life Donor Program – FB page Facebook+1Instagram: @donors1

In this segment of Insight, a show about empowering our community, host Loraine Ballard Morrill explores a powerful new resource for families in Delaware County. Family Village, launched by The Foundation for Delaware County, brings together comprehensive, wraparound services — from pregnancy to early childhood — all under one roof. Loraine is joined by Joanne Craig, Chief Impact Officer, who shares how this innovative hub is helping families thrive, improving maternal health outcomes, and ensuring every child gets the strong start they deserve.   Listeners will learn what inspired the creation of Family Village, the range of services offered, how it builds on decades of maternal and child health work, and how community members can get involved or access support.  

 North Philly: A Black Freedom JawnNorth Philadelphia has always been a powerhouse of culture, activism, and resilience — a cornerstone in America's ongoing freedom story. North Philly: A Black Freedom Jawn is bringing that legacy to life through intergenerational storytelling, docent training, and community celebration. Joining us are Dr. Victoria Best, CEO of Victoria Urban Outreach Tutoring Service (VUOTS) and Acting President of The Society to Preserve Philadelphia African American Assets (SPPAAA), and Jacqueline Wiggins, Owner of Wiggins Tours N More, LLC and Vice President of SPPAAA. Together, they share how this project is empowering residents to preserve their own history and redefine how the world sees North Philadelphia — not just as a neighborhood, but as a living archive of Black freedom and ingenuity.

As we approach the 2025 elections, we turn our focus to Pennsylvania's children and families. Kevin Burgess from the Children First Action Fund joins us, along with parents Samia Evans-Bolling, Regina Brown, and Jazmin Banks, to discuss how judicial elections impact school funding, child welfare, and public safety — and why it's essential for voters to make informed choices this November.

We're  joined by Leah Yaw, Senior Vice President at Devereux, one of the nation's leading nonprofit behavioral healthcare organizations. For more than a century, Devereux has been supporting children, adolescents, and adults living with emotional, behavioral, and cognitive differences, helping them build fulfilling, independent lives. On Saturday, November 8, Devereux Pennsylvania will host its annual Evening of Hope gala at Vie by Cescaphe in Philadelphia. This year's “Night in Venice”–themed celebration will feature masquerade masks, live entertainment, music by Philly's Milan 77, and a special tribute to longtime board member Phil Glick. Proceeds will directly benefit more than 4,000 individuals across Pennsylvania served by Devereux programs.

Girl Scouts of Eastern PA - Calling All Girl Bosses I welcomed four inspiring guests from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania's Calling All Girl Bosses initiative—a free, yearlong leadership program helping girls in grades 6–12 become confident changemakers in their communities. Joining us are two remarkable Girl Scouts: Jasmine Wielgoszinski from Northeast Philly and Kinsley Jackson from West Philadelphia. They'll share how their Gold Award projects are making an impact—from advocating for farm animal therapy to leading mural tours rooted in Black history. With them are their biggest supporters—moms and volunteers Adrienne Wielgoszinski and Lillian Jackson.

Segment 1: East Falls Development Corporation — Building Community and Connection Today we're spotlighting one of Philadelphia's most vibrant and scenic neighborhoods — East Falls. Joining us is Michelle Feldman, Executive Director of the East Falls Development Corporation (EFDC). Since 2021, Michelle has led initiatives that support small businesses, strengthen community partnerships, and enhance neighborhood infrastructure. She's here to share details about the upcoming 2025 East Falls Fest, happening Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Ridge Avenue and Midvale Avenue in East Falls. This annual neighborhood celebration will feature live music all day (in partnership with The Fallser Club), a beer garden by Wissahickon Brewing, food and drinks from local favorites like Taqueria Cresta, Le Bus, and Thunder Mug Café, plus family-friendly activities including rowing demos and circus arts. It's a day of community, culture, and connection along the Schuylkill River.

Segment 1: AIDS Walk Philly and AIDS Fund — Honoring a Legacy of Care   We're joined by Evelyn Torres, Executive Director of Action Wellness, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of people living with and affected by chronic illnesses, including HIV.   Evelyn shares insights into the organization's ongoing work to promote health and wellness, along with details about their upcoming special event — To honor the legacy of the AIDS Walk Philly and AIDS Fund, a retrospective celebration will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the William Way Community Center (1315 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA).   Guests are encouraged to make a $25 suggested donation, which includes one entry into a raffle for two tickets to GayBINGO! The event will celebrate decades of community impact and the continued mission to support individuals living with and affected by HIV.  

Today we're joined by members of the Philadelphia Chapter of The Pierians, Inc. — Felicia Collins, Chapter President, and event Co-Chairs Meridel Peterson and Donna Drake. They're here to share details about the Inaugural Scholarship Fashion Show and Live Arts Brunch, happening Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Brossman Center, United Lutheran Seminary (7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia). This exciting event — featuring stunning fashions by local designer Azizza — raises funds to support emerging young artists in our community. Tickets are $70, and the venue offers parking and handicap accessibility.✨ Event & Contact Information

Keep It Clean With Raylene & Cleaning for a ReasonWe highlight an interview conducted by iHeartMedia Q102's Rach on the Radio about Keep It Clean With Raylene, a Philadelphia-based cleaning company making a difference through its 18-year partnership with Cleaning for a Reason, the nonprofit that provides free home cleanings to cancer patients. Hear how Raylene Arko and her team bring hope, relief, and care to families across the city.

African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC)We're joined by Regina Hairston, President & CEO of AACC. Under her leadership, the Chamber continues to advocate for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, providing vital resources and opportunities to grow and thrive. The Chamber is preparing for its 32nd Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 6–9 PM at the Bellevue Hotel, 200 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102. This year's honorees include Congressman Dwight Evans (Vanguard Award), the Philadelphia 76ers, Black Nonprofit Chief Executives of Philadelphia (BNCEP), IMC Construction, and PureFuel.

We're joined by Dr. Heather K. Beasley, a leading cancer researcher and MAGEC Fellow at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. As Chair of the AACR Associate Member Council, Dr. Beasley is advancing research on cancer disparities, particularly in underserved communities. • AACR – www.aacr.org

Today we're joined by Dr. Stacy E. Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215. With 30 years of experience creating educational solutions for children, Dr. Holland is helping to align Philadelphia's education community around a shared vision: ensuring every child has access to a quality school that prepares them to thrive. She shares insights on School Selection Month, the new Philly Schools Compass tool and important updates to the Apply Philly Charter system.Connect with Elevate 215 & Resources

Today we're joined by Dr. Stacy E. Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215. With 30 years of experience creating educational solutions for children, Dr. Holland is helping to align Philadelphia's education community around a shared vision: ensuring every child has access to a quality school that prepares them to thrive. She shares insights on School Selection Month, the new Philly Schools Compass tool and important updates to the Apply Philly Charter system.Connect with Elevate 215 & Resources

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with celebrated children's book author Sharon Flake, whose powerful stories have inspired young readers for over two decades. Sharon is also the featured guest in Vanesse's monthly segment “What is Philadelphia Reading?”, where she shares her literary journey and the impact of her award-winning books.Connect with Sharon Flake

Today on the show, we bring you three powerful conversations centered on health, awareness, and empowerment in our communities.

Meet the Twin Sister Docs—Dr. Elana McDonald, a Board Certified Pediatrician, and Dr. Delana Wardlaw, a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician. On their biweekly podcast, now streaming on YouTube and Spotify, they break down health topics that matter most to our communities—from nutrition and mental health to the impact of social media. 

Today we're spotlighting The Velvet Whip Arts and Social Club, one of Philadelphia's newest hubs for live entertainment, culture, and community. Joining us is Nasir “Mizzy” Mack, Creative Executive Officer of SERF, a full-service creative agency behind major events like Wawa Welcome America, The Atlantic Festival, and the upcoming launch of Velvet Whip. Nasir shares insights on Velvet Whip's exciting debut in Callowhill, its place in Philadelphia's arts scene, and what we can look forward to at this unique venue.

Today we're joined by Reverend Zemoria Brandon (she/her), Administrator and Social Worker for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America – Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter (SCDAA-PDVC). Reverend Brandon is a passionate advocate for individuals and families impacted by sickle cell disease. She leads outreach, education, and advocacy efforts, and also chairs the SiNERGe “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell” campaign, raising awareness each year on during September - National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  Rev. Brandon continues to be a powerful voice for equitable healthcare and compassionate care.