At Partners for Civic Pride (PFCP), our team and supporters are driven by a passion for community unity and the power of the Philadelphia Civic Flag. Our leaders and founding board members bring diverse experiences and a shared commitment to fostering civic engagement and pride across Philadelphia.
Meet the Partners for Civic Pride
Dedicated Leaders and Supports
Our Executive Team
Brenda Exon
PFCP Founder and Executive Director, Brenda Exon, affectionately known as the “Philly Pride Lady,” has been the driving force behind the Philadelphia Civic Flag’s resurgence.
A former teacher and author, Brenda discovered the flag's significance in 1998 and has since dedicated her life to promoting its values.
Her visionary leadership and commitment to education have been pivotal in reinvigorating community pride and civic participation throughout the city.
Leah Stauffer
Leah is our PFCP visionary strategist! She is an expert on Social Capital and Collective Impact Theory. She has created original strategies to weave the Philadelphia Maneto Message citywide.
Leah is a true champion of the Philly Flag, clearly seeing the promise it holds to unify Philadelphia, making Philly the best city ever! Leah is also the Founder, Half A Million Kids, dedicated to finding permanent homes for foster children.
The Lenfest Legacy
The Lenfest family has long been synonymous with philanthropy and civic engagement in Philadelphia. Through generous support and visionary leadership, both H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest and his son Chase Lenfest have significantly shaped the community landscape, furthering the mission of Partners For Civic Pride (PFCP) and promoting the values of the Philadelphia Civic Flag.
The Lenfest Legacy is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of committed philanthropy in building and sustaining community vitality. PFCP is profoundly grateful for the ongoing support of the Lenfest family, whose contributions continue to inspire and mobilize community actions aligned with our cherished civic values.
A Commitment to Civic Unity and Prosperity
Gerry Lenfest’s legacy as a philanthropist and civic leader is profound. Known for his generosity and deep love for Philadelphia, Gerry was instrumental in supporting numerous cultural, educational, and civic initiatives. His steadfast friendship and understanding of PFCP’s mission to unite Philadelphians through the civic flag were pivotal.
As our cherished "Angel Donor," Gerry’s contributions enabled PFCP to connect all Philadelphians to the flag’s meaningful message, fostering community connectedness and civic pride. His passing was a significant loss to the community, mourned by many who were touched by his commitment to making Philadelphia a better place for everyone.
Chase Lenfest honors his father's legacy by continuing to invest in the welfare of Philadelphia’s communities. Chase’s vision extends the legacy of his father by using the Philadelphia Civic Flag as a tool to unite the community, underscoring the flag’s embedded values of Peace, Hope, Justice, and Prosperity.
Chase recognizes the powerful role of social capital in community development. His efforts are geared towards creating environments where social capital flourishes. His dedication ensures that events like the Philly Flag Fest and The Philadelphia Maneto Awards not only continue but thrive, celebrating the civic spirit and bolstering the sense of unity across Philadelphia.
H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest
(1930 - 2018)
Chase Lenfest
Continuing the Vision
Emeritus Co-Founders
Will Smith Sr. (1939 – 2016)
Will Smith Sr. was a revered community leader whose wisdom and insight into Philadelphia’s cultural heritage helped shape PFCP’s direction.
His legacy continues to inspire our work, reflecting his deep belief in the power of unity and community service. Will's dedication to the city was evident in every initiative he supported, making lasting impacts on Philadelphia's civic landscape.
Robert Stoller
As a strategic thinker and dedicated advocate for civic engagement, Robert has played a crucial role in shaping the organizational structure and strategy of PFCP.
His expertise in non-profit management and commitment to ethical leadership ensure that PFCP operates with integrity and a focus on sustainable impact.
Emeritus Founding Board Members
Karima Bouchenafa
Eileen Butler
Denise Fennell
Debbie Fusetti
John Guerrieri, CPA
Lissa Hilsee
Melanie Johnson
John C. Lee, PC
Tony Luke Jr.
Charles Naselsky, Esq.
Karima Bouchenafa
Eileen Butler
Denise Fennell
Debbie Fusetti
John Guerrieri, CPA
Lissa Hilsee
Melanie Johnson
John C. Lee, PC
Tony Luke Jr.
Charles Naselsky, Esq.
Become a Champion for Civic Pride
Join us in our mission to unite and uplift Philadelphia through civic pride. Whether you’re an individual, local business, large corporation, or a public institution, your support can make a significant difference. By supporting PFCP, you help strengthen the social fabric of our city and promote values that enhance community life.
