50 Years of Community – People Behind Our Impact Q&A

For 50 years, Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC) has been shaped by the people who believe in this community. What began as a grassroots effort, driven by residents who invested in their own neighborhood, continues today through work in affordable housing, small business support, youth college and career readiness, and adult employment. To celebrate this milestone, we are highlighting 50 individuals whose commitment makes this work possible. From board members and staff to partners, volunteers, and local businesses, their stories reflect where we’ve been, who we are, and where we hope to go. This series serves as both a thank you and a reflection of the relationships at the heart of everything we do.

Check back each month through out the year as we add more interviews!

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50 Years of Community – People Behind Our Impact Q&A

Name: Sandy Simon

Year you first became involved with BGC: Don’t remember but joined the board in 2021

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
Bought a house in the neighborhood and wanted to become involved in what was happening and what was going to happen in the community.

What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
The learn and earn program for teens and the Aggie Awards

In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
It’s all inclusive and it truly about the community. BGC helps it’s neighbors when they need it most.

What does “community” mean to you?
Pitching in when you can and where you can.

What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
Younger people in the community participating on the board.

Name: Alonso Diaz-Perez

Year you first became involved with BGC: 2019, joined the staff in 2024

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
I was working at 412 Food Rescue and the BGC was at a central location where inventory would pass through and Nina Gibbs was the contact for the BGC. The location for the BGC made it an ideal location to receive any excess donations that were remaining when other organizations in the area were closed, closing, or didn’t have capacity to receive inventory. I would reach out to Nina and she always made it happen and got food and non-food items to the community no matter how daunting the effort was.

During the COVID-19 pandemic and shelter-in-place order, Nina and Natalie DeiCas from Everyday’s A Sunday at 4919 Penn Ave were in the Top 5 for receiving donations from 412 Food Rescue that came from all over the region- from Midland, PA, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C. and more receiving enough from us at 412 Food Rescue that it made the BGC a top nonprofit distribution partner for 412 Food Rescue in 2020 of the over 8 Million Pounds of food recovered that year alone.

Nina and Natalie pulled off an insurmountable task and they represented the BGC during a time where every community was impacted by them on the BGC’s behalf.

What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
My experience above is what I’m most proud of and deeply impacted by.

In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
The BGC is special because it compliments a community that is vibrant, proud, and teeming with culture.

What does “community” mean to you?
Community means deference to each other in all interactions.

What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I hope that the BGC and the area compliments its surroundings- where it be million dollar condos and row houses in the Strip District, East Liberty, and Lawrenceville- I hope that the area keeps to its artistic, cultural, and work-class roots and adds in even more diversity as everything grows around and in it.

Name: Jamie Kelly

Year you first became involved with BGC: 2024

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
I was hired as the editor of The Bulletin

What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
I’m always impressed by the Aggie Awards and the range of honorees.

In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
The BGC is special because it’s founded on the idea that the residents of a neighborhood can be responsible for improving the quality of life for themselves and for all of their neighbors. All of us together can accomplish so so much more than we can individually.

What does “community” mean to you?
Community is when a group of people have a common goal and decide to work together. The larger goal is what drives the original connection to something larger than ourselves, and as the work continues, we become even more connected to those we’re working with.

What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I’d love to see a steady improvement of how things are throughout both neighborhoods, with a stable community of both small business owners and residents.

Name: Julia Beadnell

Year you first became involved with BGC:_2020, the height of the pandemic

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
Joined the team as a Youth Program Coordinator.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
Although I’ve only been part of BGC for five of its fifty years, the moments that stand out most to me are the quiet ones when something clicks for a young person. I’ve seen it happen during college visits, career conversations, and professional tours. There is a sudden shift when a participant begins to see new possibilities for themselves. One moment that comes to mind was after a tour of a local veterinary clinic with a typically reserved student. As we walked back to the car, she looked at me and said, “That was amazing. I feel so empowered for next year.” Her confidence in that moment was completely different. To me, that is what this work is about. Empowerment is not something we give. It is something we help cultivate. Being able to witness and support those “aha” moments is the most meaningful part of what I do at BGC and frankly a privilege.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
What makes BGC special is its relationships. It has built genuine, lasting connections with community members, partners, and across generations, rooted in trust and consistency rather than just programs or services. At its core, BGC is truly grassroots. It grew from the community and has remained grounded in the voices and experiences of the people it serves. It is also an organization that continuously adapts and learns. BGC listens, evolves, and advocates alongside residents as needs change, never assuming it has all the answers. To sustain that kind of grassroots spirit while making high-level impact for over 50 years is something special in itself. That combination of deep community roots, long-term commitment, and willingness to grow is what truly sets BGC apart.
What does “community” mean to you?
Community for me means consistency. It’s one thing to build a strong bond over a project or a shared thought, but it’s a whole different thing to come back and continue to build and grow together. The community is building together through the mistakes and the victories. It’s pushing those around you to grow and evolve, while being fluid enough to let others do the same for you. Building community is something I feel never ends, and to nurture that longevity, all parties involved need a level of consistency.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
My mind immediately goes to my professional training of inclusivity and equity but taking a step back and thinking about my personal foundational feelings around community, it boils down to one simple concept: community is knowing you’re not doing life alone, that you’re known and still welcomed.

Name: DeVaughn Rodgers

Year you first became involved with BGC:_2008

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
I needed a work permit in high school to apply for an internship at The Manchester Craftsmens Guild. Starting my career in the arts. My reconnection to the BGC via BOOM Concepts was a full-circle moment for me.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
Working with BOOM Concepts, I have a unique via of the work the BGC truly dose for the community. The practice of being the vehicle while allowing community partners to steer the trajectory of the of the community is not easy. However time and time again I watched the work be completed. My work supporting the Garfield Night Market over the years has been the most fun. I love being part of the BGCs more direct community engagement.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
Consistency and dedication to the community’s growth. As a Garfield native, having a community organization so deeply dedicated to the growth of the community is a blessing. Being able to engage the BGC on so many levels since my time as a youth has been more than helpful. It’s that kind of consistency that I work to achieve in all facets of my career.
What does “community” mean to you?
Community for me means consistency. It’s one thing to build a strong bond over a project or a shared thought, but it’s a whole different thing to come back and continue to build and grow together. The community is building together through the mistakes and the victories. It’s pushing those around you to grow and evolve, while being fluid enough to let others do the same for you. Building community is something I feel never ends, and to nurture that longevity, all parties involved need a level of consistency.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I hope that this community has a sense of nostalgia in its growth. I love seeing new things in my neighborhood, but not at the expense of losing the neighborhood itself. I hope to see generational wealth and prosperity in the community, paired with new and modern influence. I hope to see the fruits of the labor budding and thriving, and the original community members engaged and involved. I hope to see a community evolving and growing, not displaced and disconnected.

Name: Brian Kubat

Year you first became involved with BGC:_2024

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
Neighborhood changes
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
Raising 192 pairs of gloves for the BGC Annual Coat Drive
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
It prioritizes the residents of our community.
What does “community” mean to you?
A connection between the residents and myself.

What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
Continuing to serve the community in the capacity of what we are accomplishing today.

Name: Jarmele E. Fairclaugh – BGC Board President

Year you first became involved with BGC:__2016

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

When I moved to Garfield the neighborhood was filled with kids running and playing on my street. The neighbors would sit out on their porches relaxing. In a blink of an eye, the drug deals, prostitution and crime moved their way into our streets. This was not the type of neighborhood that I wanted to raise my son in. One day I was walking down Penn Avenue and noticed that there were trash cans on the Friendship side of Penn Avenue but none on the Garfield side. I approached Mr. Swartz to see how we could get trash cans and he suggested that I attend a board meeting. And the rest is history.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
The Night Market stands out most to me because I was part of the group that started it. We had long discussions and ideas of what it would look like. Now it’s grown to be an amazing night out for families, friends and neighbors.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
This organization has grown over the years. We have matured as a collective group. We talk through our issues which allows us to work for the greater good.
What does “community” mean to you?
The Community means everything to me. I was taught to respect and help when and where I can. I work every day to pass this along to everyone that I meet which makes this community great.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I hope for a tree lined Penn Avenue filled with various small businesses. People will be able to live and shop in our neighborhood. There will be monthly street cleanups in addition to a community garden and flea market. We would hold two parades a year. BGC will host and organize all of these items.

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Name: Alyson Bonavoglia

Year you first became involved with BGC: 2019

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?
I first became involved with BGC through the Rotunda project. Sara Stock Mayo and I met with Rick to discuss our idea of converting the former B’nai Israel sanctuary into an arts and community space.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
The Rotunda project began with that first conversation we had with Rick. That conversation evolved into a multi-million dollar project that will one day benefit Garfield, and the East End and all of Pittsburgh by providing a centrally located, beautiful gathering space for the community. I am deeply proud of how we continue to develop community-grounded programming even before the space is fully ready for occupancy. I am proud of the nonprofit Rotunda Collaborative concept which centers the work of local artists. I am proud of how our work has been so positively received by artists and the community at large.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
BGC is truly committed to the community it serves. Despite the many obstacles, Rick and BGC persevere to ensure that housing remains affordable, businesses can prosper and residents can thrive.
What does “community” mean to you?
Community means sharing in the good times and supporting one another through challenges. Being part of a community helps us accept our differences in service of being part of something bigger where we all share values.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
Bloomfield-Garfield will be an arts destination for all of Pittsburgh and beyond, home of the East End Arts & Culture District. The Rotunda, Kelly Strayhorn, Alloy Studios, The Glass Center and all of the arts organizations on Penn Ave will be connected through public art and way finding installations. Space for restaurants and other businesses along Penn Ave in Garfield will be in demand due to the increase in visitors.

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Name: Paris Wright

Year you first became involved with BGC: 2003

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

Moving into the neighborhood, directly across the street from the Community Activity Center. Eventually leading to employment in the organization beginning in 2018
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
It may be due to managing the program, but the Eastside Neighborhood Employment Center is a literally paradigm shifting program for folks that don’t know how to professionally advocate for themselves.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
The BGC has a small staff, but it is a staff that goes above and beyond the call of duty to support this community.
What does “community” mean to you?
I see community as a group of interconnected people, places, businesses, and things that are set up to and strive to support one another for mutual benefit out of a place of legitimate care and concern.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I want to see the “above and beyond” attitude portrayed by BGC staff flowing in obvious and intentional ways into the day to day happenings outside of the office and in the neighborhood itself.

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Name: Elena Alves- BGC Board Member

Year you first became involved with BGC:_2020

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

I moved to Pittsburgh in the midst of the pandemic and wanted to find a way to become more involved with my community and meet more of my neighbors.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
It’s honestly hard to point to just one project or moment, because what stands out most to me is the consistency of BGC’s impact. What has impressed me most is how the organization continually shows up for the community, stands by what’s right, and leads with a genuine desire to help. There’s a strong sense of altruism behind everything they do, and that commitment to giving back is what has made the deepest impression on me.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
What makes BGC special is the close-knit nature of the organization and the authentic relationships that exist within it. The staff don’t just serve the community — they truly know the people they work with and the individuals who live here. That level of connection creates trust and belonging, and over time BGC has become a meaningful staple for both those who work here and those who call this community home.
What does “community” mean to you?
Community, to me, is a place where you feel welcomed and where you know you matter. It’s built on relationships — knowing others and being known in return — and feeling a real sense of belonging.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I hope Bloomfield-Garfield has expanded its reach even further, supporting more people and programs in meaningful ways. I’d love to see it providing grants to local businesses that need a boost, cultivating a strong volunteer network that helps maintain the Greenzone and run other community events, and deepening all of its programs so they have an even greater impact. Ideally, both the organization and the neighborhood thrive together — with a stronger sense of connection, opportunity, and shared pride.

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Name: Jennifer Tyler

Year you first became involved with BGC: 2025

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

As a resident of 53 years, I was interested to find out more about the new initiatives in the community and I did not feel as though I had any knowledge of what/ how/ or why the changes were taking place until it happened. A current board member suggested that I attend a meeting and it has been a rewarding and informative decision.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
I have been impressed to learn the BGC’S role in protecting affordable housing in three communities. In addition, the efforts being made to maintain the integrity of the community despite the gentrification taking place.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
I enjoy the diversity of the group and the commitment of the members for common causes in the community.
What does “community” mean to you?
A community is a place where people share a common geographical area, but more than that they share interests and hopefully interests to make it a place where they can live together in harmony.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
I hope it continues to thrive and grow. I appreciate all the amenities that have been made accessible. I’m looking forward to the growth of the Penn Ave business district. I would like to see businesses that are reflective of the current population of Garfield.

Name: Lillian B. Sogga- BGC Board Member

Year you first became involved with BGC:_2019

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

As a business owner in Garfield felt it was important to be involved.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
At this point I can not point just to one thing. They have been different experiences that have stand out, some in part. These experiences have made me proud of my involvement with BGC.
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
The People. Everyone genuinely cares about the community and what happens here.
What does “community” mean to you?
Neighbors caring for one another and the environment around them.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
continue to grow as family oriented affordable community, natives staying in the area, as proud homeowners. Safe comfortable community.

Name: Rick Swartz – BGC Executive Director

Year you first became involved with BGC:_1981

How did you first become connected to Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation (BGC)?

I was hired to help the organization that blighted conditions in the Penn Avenue corridor.
What is one project or experience with BGC that stands out to you?
Probably, the construction or renovation of over 120 homes for sale to first-time, working-class homebuyers
In your own words, what makes the BGC special?
The willingness to be persistent and resourceful in serving as a change agent in the community.
What does “community” mean to you?
A network of individuals, organizations, and institutions who want to have some ownership over the future.
What do you hope Bloomfield-Garfield looks like 10 years from now?
That it continues to push for significant improvement in the lives of its residents, in the economic prosperity of the arts and commercial district on Penn, in the physical aspect of its housing stock and green spaces, and in the availability of the Rotunda center as a space for inspiration, celebration, commemoration, and dialogue.