Lancaster Connects

In this episode, Jessica Miller, Founder and Executive Director of Side Street Mission, shares the heart behind the organization’s mission to serve unhoused and underserved neighbors with the love of Jesus. Through compassion, connection, and practical support, Side Street Mission is committed to meeting people where they are, building relationships rooted in dignity, and putting faith into action. Discover how this mission is making a difference in the community and bringing hope to those who n

In this episode, we’re joined by Allison Hawthorne, Executive Director at Homefields, and Melissa Monti, Shop Manager of the new Homefields & Friends Cottage Shop. Allison is passionate about building pathways for people with disabilities to discover their own ways to create purposeful lives and meaningful connections within their communities. She shares her perspective on inclusion, opportunity, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can thrive. Melissa brings more than 25 years

Gardner’s 36th anniversary celebration takes center stage in this episode of Lancaster Connects, with five weeks of savings, contests, giveaways, and customer appreciation events planned throughout October. Ben and Jeff cover 36-month no-interest financing, qualifying purchases of $3,600 or more that include a luxury travel voucher, and prequalification savings of up to $500. Customers can also take advantage of 36-hour anniversary sales featuring mattresses, pillows, bamboo sheets, and mattres

In this episode, we talk with Jennifer O. Knepper, GTGH Fair Coordinator for Gifts That Give Hope, about the story behind Lancaster’s unique alternative gift fair and the power of giving with purpose. Inspired in 2007 by a group of women in the Harrisburg area who created an alternative gift fair, Jenn brought the concept to Lancaster in 2008—and it has continued to grow ever since. Gifts That Give Hope creates meaningful gift-giving opportunities that support local nonprofits, social enterpris

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Zywko, CEO of Compleat, who took the helm in 2024 following his team’s acquisition of the company in 2023. Founded in 1978, Compleat has long been dedicated to helping people recover from disasters. Under its new leadership, the company has shifted its focus from traditional advertising to meaningful community engagement. From sponsoring local nonprofits and encouraging employees to volunteer, to offering scholarships and participating in community event

In this episode, we sit down with Terry C. Kile, CEO and Founder of the Lancaster County Food Exchange, a free mobile web application created to help food pantries reduce food waste and connect families with the food they need most. Terry shares the inspiring story behind the platform and his mission to ensure that “no good food goes unused, and no family goes hungry.” With initial support from organizations including the Central PA Food Bank, Midwest Food Bank, and Community Action Partnership