Our Blog

With the recent release of this year’s 2021-2022 Impact Report, we’re reflecting on some of the highlights of our efforts this past year. 

Meet Maggie Place, current chair of our Strategic Operations committee and next year’s President, a singer and performer who loves all that Philadelphia’s outdoors has to offer.

Meet Brianna Westbrooks, member of our Strategic Operations and DEI committees, a fan of Philadelphia icons Patti LaBelle and Green Line Cafe who would describe Philadelphia in three words as diverse, gritty, and proud.

Maggie Place, Chair, Strategic Operations Committee, (and current President-Elect!) shares her perspective on identifying the right board and volunteer service opportunities.

Meet Libby Ellman, first-year member of our board on our Communications and Spruce Council committees, an avid reader and fan of the Gayborhood’s Graffiti Bar who finds inspiration in her fellow young leaders at Spruce making a big impact.

Meet Brian Balduzzi, Vice Chair of our Development Committee, a self-proclaimed foodie, board game lover, and former member of the American Theatre Critics Association which bestows the prestigious Tony Award for Regional Theatre.

Jake Maroney, committee member for DVLF’s Our Night Out, a monthly event for the LGBTQ+ community to network and raise money, shares the history of ONO and details on their upcoming event.

Meet Zara Waters, our Communications Committee Vice Chair who’s passionate about Philadelphia’s food scene, the arts, and advocating for resources and access for the city’s youth.

Learn more about our Events Committee Vice Chair Mary Pat Wixted, a mom of two and avid tea drinker in her fourth and final year on the Spruce Board.

On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, Campbell’s Soup Company’s Chef Gerald Drummond joined us for a virtual cooking event to raise money in support of Spruce’s mission to provide grants to youth-serving nonprofits.