Alicia Dorsey
Check out Jumpstart Germantown
On Thursday, May 28, 2015, Jumpstart Germantown hosted its first Developers’ Network meeting at the Greatness Is In You! Performance Arts Space located at 4811 Germantown Avenue at 6:30 pm. This project Jumpstart Germantown includes a Mentorship program, a Loan program, and the Developers Network. These programs are intended to provide “knowledge, resources, and capital” for individuals and organizations to participate in the continuous development occurring in Germantown and eventually around the city. Ken Weinstein said it best with, “Without getting your hands dirty you’re not going to learn.”
Mr. Weinstein, President of Philly Office Retail has been investing in Philadelphia for over 25 years. Philly Office Retail currently owns and manages more than 600,000 square feet of commercial space in the Philadelphia region. Ken’s mission is to revitalize neighborhoods by renovating vacant, deteriorated properties in Philadelphia’s commercial corridors. He believes that you can do well by doing good. “I won’t retire until all commercial and residential spaces are renovated in Germantown.” “Jumpstart Germantown only works if you take the resources and use what is being offered.”
After the call went out for applications, over 71 were received in response to the mentoring program. Nancy Deephouse is the Coordinator for the Developer’s Network and is very excited about working on this program with Ken Weinstein and Philly Office Retail. “It’s not for everyone but if you are willing to take the risk, but if you are not given the tools to develop, you won’t.” Regular networking meetings will be scheduled in order for local developers, real estate agents, community members, and local businesses to meet and greet with each other.
The room was buzzing with conversation and the excitement of meeting new and familiar faces. Beth Biel, the owner of Revise Studio was the sponsor for the night and delicious food and drinks were provided by Little Jimmies and Brewers Outlet.
The first group of 8 mentees started Wednesday, May 27 and they will engage in a total of 9 hours separated into 3 hour sessions. There are already 8 mentors in place ready to continue a one-on-one relationship once the program ends. Programs like Jumpstart Germantown provide a tangible pathway for those who have the goals, but not the knowledge/resources or funds to transform them into viable opportunities.
Click on the link here in order to find out more information about Jumpstart Germantown and learn how you can be a part of something great.