Title
Proclamation honoring the life and memory of Ms. Linda LeFever, Executive Director of the Northside Community Development Fund.
Body
WHEREAS, Ms. Linda LeFever, long-time resident of Observatory Hill, served as Executive Director of the Northside Community Development Fund since its establishment in 2000 as a Community Development Financial Institution certified by the U.S. Department of Treasury; and
WHEREAS, Ms. LeFever led the Northside Fund, which provides business lending and commercial real estate development services, promoting community development on Pittsburgh's Northside. In addition to encouraging entrepreneurship, business expansion and job creation, Ms. LeFever supported the development of women and minority owned businesses; and
WHEREAS, Ms. LeFever was responsible for bringing millions of investment dollars into the Northside and building the fund into a national model. She was well-known as a hard worker that utilized her exceptional grant writing ability and management skills to grow the fund and monitor it wisely; and
WHEREAS, Ms. LeFever was a graduate of Oswego College and earned a master's degree in business from Carnegie Mellon University. From 1990 to 2000, she worked first as a consultant, then as Director of Development for the Washington County Council on Economic Development; and
WHEREAS, Ms. LeFever's quick wit brought joy to many and while we cannot hope to replace her, we can honor her memory by commending and emulating the spirit of her dedication;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby recognize and honor the life of Ms. Linda LeFever for her positive impact on the Northside and its citizens. Ms. LeFever's commitment to serving the community is an inspiration to us all, and while we mourn the loss of a great leader, we will always remember her significant contributions and caring spirit.