Germantown United CDC is pleased to announce the second annual recipients of the organization’s Pillar of the Community award are civic advocate Reverend Chester Williams of the Chew and Belfield Neighbors Club and business leader Suzanne Quinn of Bargain Thrift Center. 

With this award Germantown United CDC acknowledges those among us who have significantly contributed to the betterment of our community. Rev. Chester Williams is a dedicated roll-up your sleeves guy doing everything from networking with politicos to tutoring adults, to cleaning up the neighborhood and running Chew and Belfield Neighbors Club. Bargain Thrift Center is a stalwart mainstay in our community, thanks to owner Suzanne Quinn. The second-hand shop opened in 1985, and remains one of Philadelphia’s favorite thrift stores. Bargain Thrift is a buzz with shoppers and activity day in and day out, and is an important and positive part of Germantown’s business community.

As dedicated and steadfast champions for Germantown the award recipients embody the values of GUCDC. Toast the honorees with us at For the Love Of Germantown! Fundraiser on Thursday, April 27th at Rittenhouse Soundworks. Tickets are now on sale >>

About the Award Recipients

Suzanne Quinn
Bargain Thrift Center

“I love being a part of such a tight knit, vibrant, and historic neighborhood. The best part of my job is the people, and I’m so grateful for the relationships I’ve developed over so many years with customers and staff.” – Suzanne Quinn

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Suzanne Quinn graduated from Temple University (1992) with BA in Economics & International Business. Her father, George Chase, opened his first resale business in Germantown in 1977. Quinn began working in the shop at Germantown Avenue & Queen Lane in 1985 during summer breaks. Suzanne is married (Bill) with two teenage daughters (Brooke and Devon).

As a family-owned business, the core tenants of Bargain Thrift Center are a sense of community and family. Bargain Thrift Center is a place where many of the staff know customers by name and where everyone is welcome to shop in a clean, comfortable atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to snag a unique piece of home decor, a great pair of name brand jeans, or just need a practical kitchen item, Bargain Thrift Center is your source for affordable, quality goods and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. From the Premium Goods Pop-Up Shop, to the $1 or less clothing section at Bargain Thrift Warehouse Outlet, the store has something for everyone.

Stop by one of Quinn’s two retail locations on Germantown Avenue and see for yourself why Bargain Thrift Center continues to be one of Philadelphia’s leading thrift stores.

BARGAIN THRIFT CENTER
5261 Germantown Avenue (at Queen Lane)
Open Monday-Saturday
10:00am-5:45pm
p: 215.849.3225

What you’ll find here: Brand name clothing and accessories, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, games, books, artwork, vintage and collectibles.

BARGAIN THRIFT OUTLET WAREHOUSE
4530 Germantown Avenue (at Berkley Street)
Open Wednesday-Saturday
10:00am-5:00pm
p: 215.843.1300

What you’ll find here: All clothing, accessories, small housewares, and bric-a-brac for $1 per piece or less.

Reverend Chester Williams
Chew and Belfield Neighbors Club

Rev. Chester Harold Williams works tirelessly to help his community, located in the Northwest section of Philadelphia. While “pastoring” is his number one calling, Rev. Williams wears many hats. He has served for over 30 consecutive years as Block Captain for the 6200 Block of Chew Avenue in East Germantown. Established in 1981, Rev. Williams is Founder and President of the Chew and Belfield Neighbors Club, Inc., serves as the Committee Person representing constituents residing in the 59th Ward, 10th Division, and works on countless issues that impact his community. He partners with neighboring civic groups, and works diligently to get the voices of his homeowner and renting neighbors heard and their needs addressed.

Recent issues he has represented his community on include: the replacement of SEPTA’s ailing Chew Avenue Bridge (at Walnut Lane) and improved safety measures at the SEPTA’s Washington Lane Regional Train Station; flooding in area homes and streets; identifying greening opportunities in the neighborhood; job opportunities, including for ex-offenders; rallying the community about the dangers of drugs; promoting exercise thru Happy Hollow’s boxing program; working within the area’s business corridor; and helping the Homeless.

Rev. Williams was the 5th child of 10 children, born to Tal and Florence Williams. He was born on December 24, 1946 on an Army Base in Pittsburg, California. He became an Ordained Minister during his high school tenure. Respectfully known as Rev. Williams, he served his nation in the Vietnam War from 1967-1969 as a Combat Medic in the Big Red 1/18th Infantry of the United States Army. He received numerous medals, among them, the United States Purple Heart, and was honorably discharged. In 1970, shortly after his return home from the war, he was called to the position of Ruling Elder, under the direction of Bishop H.D Wilson, in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Rev. Williams worked the majority of his professional career as a Custodian and was later promoted to the position of Acting Supervisor of Mail Handlers for the U.S. Postal Service.

In serving both his nation and community, Rev. Williams has received numerous forms of recognition for acts of bravery, outstanding leadership, and community service.

Rev. Williams’ life Moto is, “You have not, because you ask not.”

He is on a continuous journey to better himself spiritually and encourages others to do the same. Rev. Williams is always concerned with spreading good news throughout his community. He considers himself simply as, “One crying in the wilderness, spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.” He is the proud father of Bryan Williams and Dontay Williams, ages 26 and 22.

Celebrate with us.

Join us at Germantown United CDC’s annual fundraiser For the Love of Germantown! on Thursday, April 27 from 6 – 9 p.m.

This year’s party will be held at Rittenhouse Soundworks (219 W Rittenhouse St), a hub for live music housed in a former Chrysler automotive shop turned recording studio. Come out and socialize with your neighbors and supporters of this artistic, historic, and diverse neighborhood, bid on one of a kind auction items, and enjoy good music, food, and cheer! Tickets are now on sale >>

Show your support for the Pillar of the Community participants.
Use Code: PILLAR to receive 33% off your ticket purchase.

Event registration is ​$75.00.
First-time attendee tickets available for $35.