Mission & Vision

EBWS serves as a vehicle for change and empowerment of Erie’s Black Community through meaningful relationships, education, social networks, and the promotion of Black entrepreneurship. Vision: We aspire to create a culture of Black Excellence and Wealth in Erie, inspiring generations to come.

 

Core Values

 

INTEGRITY

COMMUNITY ROOTED

BRAVERY

 

We do the right thing even when no one is looking.

We are deeply rooted in the community, bound by a common goal of community improvement.

We embrace learning, open-mindedness, courage, adaptability, and innovation.

OPTIMISTIC REALISM

 

We imagine a world with equal opportunities while embracing practical
realism.

UPLIFTING BLACK VOICES

 

We nurture true gifts and talents, fostering mutuality.

 

PROGRAMMING

HISTORY & IMPACT

Discover our journey from inception to growth. Explore significant achievements and the impact we’ve made on the Erie community.

FUNDING SOURCES

Learn about the financial support that has allowed us to expand our programs, increase staffing capacity, and produce impactful events. We thank the Erie Community Foundation, City of Erie, Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, TearFund USA, Black Equity Coalition, Diverse Erie, and generous community donations.

NETWORKING EVENTS

Explore the diverse networking events we host, from the GREENlight Gala to the Juneteenth Mix & Mingle. These events celebrate the contributions of Black entrepreneurs and provide valuable networking opportunities.

COLLABORATORS AND PARTNERS

We’re grateful for our collaborations with organizations like Guaranteed Rate Mortgage Company, Huntington Bank, and many others. Together, we work towards positive change in our community.

GET INVOLVED

Join us in our mission. Whether through participating in programs, volunteering, or donating, your involvement is crucial to our success in building a stronger and more prosperous Erie for all.

 

Our Team

  • Kyra Taylor

    Executive Director
    A Beacon of Change and
    Empowerment

    Meet Kyra

  • Dr. Rhonda Matthews

    Chief Operating Officer
    A Trailblazer in DEI, Education, and
    Community Empowerment

    Meet Rhonda

  • Jamilia Gates

    Executive Assistant
    A Multifaceted Professional in
    Service and Entrepreneurship

    Meet Jamilia

  • Shalea Fish

    Director of Finance
    Nurturing Financial Excellence and
    Community Service

    Meet Shalea

  • Nat Richmond

    Digital Communications Specialist
    Crafting Change Through Creativity
    and Collaboration

    Meet Nat

  • Koran Butler

    Communications Assistant
    A Future Software Engineer with a
    Business Edge

    Meet Koran

Erie’s Black Wall Street

Board Members

President: Jenessa Norton

Vice President: Dalen Michael

Treasurer: Dr. Rhonda Matthews

General Members: Brian Atterbury, Kyra Taylor, Drew Whiting, Regina Gaston