Meet the board

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Executive Director & Founder Jessica has been helping the community since she was a young child. 

She has held numerous leadership positions both locally and nationally. Jessica was the Allentown Human Relations President. She has severed on and establish several non-profits in the community that service community needs. 

She serves on the Government Affairs Board both locally and nationally. She created laws and policy for the citizens. She is an influencer. Jessica's non-profit career officially started 2012 when she saw a need in her local community. She took her knowledge and skills and help strengthen others before establishing her own.

That career move led her to the Ortiz Ark Foundation, where she and her family could continue to do their family's life work on a larger scale. Jessica is an enthusiast and very passionate. She loves being a mother, wife, cooking, drawing & writing. She is also a published author since the age of 15. Ortiz holds many titles and is an  and executive chef, certified in public relations, and certified. Her most recent accomplishment was receiving her doctorate.

She is a true Allentonian and loves her city.

 Ms. Phoebe is a proud mother of three boys and a trailblazing community leader. She currently serves as an elected School Board Director for the Allentown School District. Phoebe is the President of the Doleman  Black Heritage Museum, Vice President of the Allentown Public Library Board, and a board member of the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum. She is also the Lead Consultant at a local consulting firm.

Phoebe made history as the first Black woman elected President of the Allentown Democratic Committee. Her community involvement includes past roles as Scholarship Coordinator for Casa Dominicana, Volunteer Coordinator for PRCP, and Volunteer & Fundraising Coordinator for the Allentown School District RBI Program. She has also supported fundraising efforts for G.A.B. as a dedicated volunteer.

Ms. Phoebe’s lifelong commitment to service, education, and cultural preservation continues to uplift and inspire her community.

I’m a writer, proud mother and soon to be Art Therapist. From a young age, I've had a deep passion for reading and writing, a love that has stayed with me throughout my life. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of publishing several poetry books, each one a piece of my journey in life.

When I'm not raising my kids, working full-time at Lehigh University, or pursuing my degree, I’m immersed in a variety of creative projects. Whether it's writing poetry, creating art, or collaborating with others, I embrace the role of influencer, using my platform to connect and inspire. My passion for storytelling and creativity continues to shape everything I do. 

Daniel is the Lehigh County coroner and loves his community. He serves people on many levels and is passionate about change.

Exo Board Member