Advisory Board Chair
Denise Williams MHS; MSL
Founder | Entrepreneur | Board Member
Denise Williams is a dedicated leader, coach, and community advocate committed to fostering resilience and empowerment. She is the founder of Be ReZilient, an initiative focused on helping to build resilient communities and minds.. Denise believes that resilience is the foundation for overcoming life’s challenges, and though Be ReZilient, she creates spaces where individuals can cultivate emotional strength, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
Her journey began at The Vanguard Group, where she developed a strong foundation in leadership and service. She then gained valuable community exposure through case manager positions at Creative Health Services and Tri-County YWCA, where she worked closely with individuals and families, helping them navigate challenges and access critical resources. These experiences deepened her commitment to advocacy, support, and community-driven change.
She has since expanded her impact by becoming one of the key planners for Juneteenth on High Street in Pottstown, an annual celebration recognized as a summer highlight in the community. Additionally, Denise is an active member of the Black Caucus, advocating for meaningful change and inclusivity.
Denise firmly believes in the power of trust, empathy, and compassion to open doors for communication and transformation. Her work is rooted in meeting people where they are and empowering them to embrace their authentic selves. As a community leader and advocate, she creates safe spaces for introspection, thought-provoking discussions, and lasting change.
Her educational background includes:MS in Human Services, MSL in Leadership and Accountability, Certified Resilience Coach, Certified Therapeutic Art Coach.
Denise is a proud member of the National Business Women’s Organization (NWBAO) and serves on the Trellis for Tomorrow Internal Affairs Committee. She also sits on two boardsTrellis for Tomorrow Executive Board and HealthSpark POWER Council.
With an unwavering passion for service, Denise continues to make a profound impact in every space she enters. She is deeply committed to empowering individuals and communities to embrace resilience, healing, and transformation for a stronger future.
Advisory Board CO-Chair
Jaime Parris Ed.D
Assistant Principal | Entrepreneur | Board Member
Jaime Parris is an accomplished Assistant Principal at Pottstown Senior High School, where he is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. With a deep passion for education, he works collaboratively with staff, students, and parents to promote academic excellence and personal growth. Throughout his career in education, Jaime has consistently demonstrated a commitment to supporting students’ intellectual and emotional well-being while implementing innovative programs and initiatives that drive school success.
In addition to his role in education, Jaime is also the proud owner of Sunshine Cleaning Services located in Pottstown, Pa, and combines entrepreneurial expertise with a drive for excellence. The business has flourished under his leadership, benefiting from his focus on customer satisfaction, strategic growth, and a commitment to delivering value and providing job opportunities to the citizens of the Pottstown community.
Jaime also serves on the Pottstown Health and Wellness Foundation board, providing valuable insights and leadership to help shape the organization’s mission and growth. His role on the board allows him to advocate for community engagement and work towards making a positive impact beyond the classroom. Jaime is driven by the belief that education, entrepreneurship, and community involvement are integral to creating opportunities and fostering a brighter future for all.
Advisory Board Financial Chair
Reverend Dr. Darrell C. Brown Jr.
Pastor | Entrepreneur | Community Advocate
Reverend Dr. Darrell C. Brown Jr. has been the esteemed pastor of Rhema Ministries International for the past three years, bringing over 11 years of dedicated pastoral experience to his role. A native of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Dr. Brown is deeply committed to serving his community as a spiritual leader, advocate, and agent of empowerment. In addition to his ministry, Dr. Brown is a successful entrepreneur. Over the years, he has operated three distinguished businesses and now focuses on his expertise in life insurance and the financial sector.
Through his work, he helps families secure comprehensive life insurance coverage and build vehicles for retirement. Reverend Brown’s personal life is a testament to his values of faith, family, and service.
He has been happily married to Marian L. Brown for over 19 years. Together, they are blessed with seven children, 18 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, all of whom bring immense joy to their lives.
Members at Large
Bishop Michael Anthony
Bishop | Community mobilizer
Michael Anthony, born in Philadelphia, PA, and raised in Norristown, PA, has dedicated his life to the development and empowerment of youth in his community.
He has served as a paraprofessional in several schools within the Pottstown School District and as a youth pastor for a former ministry. As the Founder of the Community First Development Corporation (CDC) of Pottstown, PA, and the current Pastor of the Heart of God Family Worship Center, Michael continues to create impactful initiatives for youth development. His commitment to providing safe and supportive spaces for Pottstown youth is evident through various community-sponsored events and programs. These include bike giveaways (in partnership with local police to promote bike safety), back-to-school initiatives offering book bags with school supplies, dental care, and grooming assistance, along with teacher supplies donations to local elementary schools. Additionally, athletic activities like outdoor skating and leadership programs such as H.A.L.O. (Heart of God Athletic Leadership Organization) and the Youth Leadership Academy foster both physical development, leadership skills and educational growth.
Michael’s vision for Pottstown youth is to create environments that instill leadership principles and skills, transforming them from a consumer mindset to a producer mindset. Through his leadership, he continues to inspire and empower the next generation to thrive as confident and capable leaders in their communities.
Heather Anderson
Businesses Owner| Business Consultant
Heather Anderson is the innovative founder and driving force behind Smoothie Q, where she’s revolutionizing the health and wellness landscape through fresh, delicious smoothies.
As CEO of Ta-Cheria LLC, which is her Business Consulting Firm, she combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for helping others achieve their wellness goals.
A natural leader with a keen business acumen, Heather & her husband has built Smoothie Q from the ground up, creating a brand that resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking quality and convenience. Her commitment to excellence has earned her recognition in the Montgomery County area, where Smoothie Q has become synonymous with premium, nutritious beverages.
Beyond her role as a business owner, Heather is dedicated to community engagement and helping others succeed. She brings her expertise in team building and strategic growth to both her business ventures and consulting work, where she guides others in achieving their professional targets and business objectives.
With a forward-thinking approach to health and entrepreneurship, Heather continues to expand Smoothie Q’s influence while maintaining the brand’s core values of quality, freshness, and customer satisfaction. In
Three years, she has managed to grow the business to two locations and a smoothie food truck. She is constantly and consistently practicing self development in order to keep thriving.
Howard Brown
Philanthropy | Social Entrepreneur
Howard Brown has been challenging norms and elevating best practices for the prioritization of community voice and data-informed processes in the non-profit sector for more than 20 years. At Pottstown Area Health Wellness Foundation, he serves as Senior Program Officer, leading resource generation and deployment for grant-making portfolios. He provides oversight for the development and deployment of community collaborative programs & special projects. He also serves on multiple non-profit boards.
After a pro basketball career overseas, Howard founded iBall United, a company dedicated to player development and consulting for aspiring players and coaches. Since 2013, iBall has produced community events such as the Pottstown Sports Carnival, Pottstown Juneteenth 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and the Skoolz Classic, which has awarded funds to Pottstown grads and college-bound student-athletes since 2000.
David Charles
CEO | Entrepreneur
David Charles is the visionary CEO and Executive Director of The STRIVE Initiative, a dynamic 501(c)(3) organization. STRIVE’s mission is to cultivate positive perceptions and provide relatable and diverse mentorship to Pottstown youth, to realize their academic and individual aspirations. A graduate of Pottstown Senior High School, David’s early experiences in the Penn Village projects shaped his understanding of the systemic challenges faced by underserved youths. His profound insights into these challenges led him to co-found STRIVE, which stands for Strengthening Tomorrow Requires Initiative & Vision Everyday. Under his leadership, STRIVE has grown into a pivotal force for emphasizing the development of youth through diverse mentorship and comprehensive character-building programs.
STRIVE’s innovative approach includes partnering with local school districts to conduct motivational assemblies, 1:1 mentoring programs, community conversations, group world mentors, multimedia career exploration programs, SEL tailored curriculums and educational initiatives. These programs are specifically designed to address the uncertainties and challenges faced by adolescents, using music and the arts as powerful engagement tools. David’s unique ability to connect through his musical talents and authentic personality enables him to establish deep, meaningful connections with young people, thereby enhancing their self-confidence and fostering a greater connection to their community. His efforts focus on equipping the next generation with the necessary resources, skills, and motivation to succeed.
In addition to his role at STRIVE, David brings over twelve years of experience from his work at Spirit of Gheel, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding individuals with mental health challenges. His extensive background and personal journey of overcoming adversity illuminate his passionate commitment to transformative community work. David’s leadership not only enriches the lives of individuals but also catalyzes significant community change, ensuring that Pottstown’s youth have the opportunities to thrive as tomorrow’s leaders.
Kareese Foster
CEO | Entrepreneur /Minister
Kareese K. Foster is a dynamic and successful entrepreneur, minister, and community leader. He is the owner of a thriving home remodeling and landscaping company, as well as a real estate investment firm. His journey is marked by resilience and determination, overcoming a troubled past to build a life dedicated to success, faith, and giving back.
Through the grace of God, Kareese transformed his life and now channels his experiences and success into making a positive impact on others. He is the founder of MAKING A DIFFERENCE ECONOMICALLY (MADE), a nonprofit organization focused on empowering communities through entrepreneurship and job creation.
As a minister, Kareese is deeply committed to serving others, particularly by employing people in the community who deserve second chances—individuals who might not be considered by other companies due to their backgrounds. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the commitment to uplifting others.
Holly Parker
Executive Director/ Adjunct Professor/ Board Member
Holly Parker is a dynamic leader with 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in organizational growth, program development, and community engagement. As the Executive Director of the TriCounty Community Network (TCN) for the past 10 years, Holly has cultivated a reputation as a trusted and respected leader. She has built strong relationships across multiple sectors, including local and state government, businesses, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations, positioning TCN as a sought-after partner in community initiatives.
Holly’s expertise lies in working with diverse stakeholders, including funders, corporate sponsors, boards, committees, and volunteers. She is passionate about developing innovative programs and services to address community needs and has successfully led organizations through periods of significant growth and stabilization.
In addition to her role at TCN, Holly serves on the Board of Directors for Pottstown Hospital, contributing to the region’s health and wellness initiatives. She is also an adjunct instructor at Chestnut Hill College, where she teaches Nonprofit Management and Grant Writing, sharing her knowledge and mentoring the next generation of nonprofit leaders.
Holly holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from West Chester University and two Master of Science degrees from Colorado State University: one in Organizational Leadership and Nonprofit Management and another in Education. Her educational background and professional experience have made her an invaluable asset to the communities she serves.
Matthew Green
Real Estate Agent/ Board Member
Matthew “Matt” Green brings over a decade of professional real estate experience and a lifelong commitment to community service to the board of FORCE. A Pottstown resident for over 40 years, Matt has spent the last 10 years specializing in residential sales, residential rehabilitation, senior downsizing and commercial real estate. His efforts in the area of commercial real estate include helping businesses move into or remain in Pottstown. Matt has worked to support revitalization by playing a key role in the rehabilitation of over 50 residential properties in Pottstown and Stowe.
Before transitioning to real estate, Matt served as a Patrolman in the Pottstown Police Department from 2007 to 2015. This role highlights his deep commitment to service within the community.
Matt has been deeply involved in community initiatives, including serving on the steering committee for the development of the Pottstown Land Bank, which focuses on rehabilitating blighted properties in the Borough of Pottstown. He collaborated with Habitat for Humanity to launch Pottstown’s Rock the Block neighborhood improvement program and played a leadership role in establishing Pottstown Community Action, a grassroots organization dedicated to community development and neighborhood improvement.
As a founding member of the Pottstown Housing Coalition, Matt worked to support homeowners, tenants, and landlords. He has also served on the Pottstown Parks & Recreation Committee, the Ricketts Community Center Advisory Board, and the board of the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities, where he contributed to their food pantry and housing counseling programs. Currently, Matt serves as an Ambassador for the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce.
In his free time, Matt enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly trout fishing, and pursues his passion for history as an amateur historian.
Ariel Baker: Bio Coming soon
Gina L. Pimentel Spease: Bios Coming soon
Heather Anderson: Bios coming soon
F.O.R.C.E 