In our ongoing pursuit of fostering inclusive growth and supporting our local community, Team Clean’s President and Founder, Donna Allie recently had the privilege of participating in the “Advancing Inclusive Strategies for Economic Growth” Civic Issues Forum hosted by the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. Donna was honored to share her experiences and perspectives alongside other esteemed panelists who are equally committed to championing diversity and equity in business.
The forum provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration on critical issues impacting businesses, with a particular emphasis on uplifting small and diverse enterprises. Guided by the capable moderation of Bill Golderer, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, the discussions delved deep into actionable strategies for driving inclusive economic growth.
Joining Donna on the panel were Jennifer Gilburg, Deputy Secretary of Technology and Entrepreneurship at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; Marshall Paul Hughes Mitchell, Pastor of Salem Baptist Church of Abington; and Councilman Anthony Phillips, each bringing their unique insights and expertise to the table.
Throughout the forum, it became abundantly clear that inclusive growth is not just a lofty ideal but a tangible imperative for businesses and communities alike. By embracing diversity and equity, we not only create opportunities for individual success but also foster a more resilient and vibrant economy that benefits everyone.
As a business leader, Donna shared our journey at Team Clean, highlighting the importance of building a diverse and inclusive workforce. She has seen firsthand how embracing diversity not only enriches our company culture but also drives innovation and enhances our ability to serve our clients and community effectively.
Jennifer Gilburg shed light on the role of government and public policy in creating an enabling environment for small businesses to thrive, underscoring the importance of partnership and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Marshall Paul Hughes Mitchell brought a compelling perspective on the interconnectedness of community, and economic empowerment, emphasizing the need for collective action in addressing systemic barriers to inclusion.
Councilman Anthony Phillips echoed the sentiment of collective responsibility, emphasizing the role of grassroots initiatives and policy advocacy in driving meaningful change at the local level.
As we reflect on the insights shared during the forum, it’s clear that our collective efforts are needed now more than ever. By coming together as businesses, community leaders, and policymakers, we can pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
Together, let’s continue to champion inclusive growth, uplift small businesses, and create opportunities for everyone to thrive. As we’ve seen time and again, when we work together, we can achieve remarkable things and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.
