You Know the Names, Now Meet the Companies Putting Community First

When I first realized I would need to accept advertisers, I was concerned about maintaining the reader experience. (I still am.) I didn’t want flashy, intrusive ads that would distract from the content or interrupt our weekly catch-ups. Instead, I had the idea for the Community Sponsor program.

Three times a year, Community Sponsors get their names posted at the top of the newsletter and a company intro at the bottom. They have their logos in the footer and on the website, but there are no pop-up ads that cover the screen, no social media takeovers or flashy promotions - just a presence and a thank you message. And maybe because of that, what I have discovered is that these 15 companies quietly represent some of the best that West Chester has to offer. 

I thought you’d like to know too. The names you’ll recognize, but perhaps not all they do for the community.

Meet Your 2026 Community Sponsors 

1. West Chester Public Library

The West Chester Public Library has served the community for over 150 years.  Located at the corner of N. Church and Lafayette Streets, the library is free to belong and free to discover. Library programs include Storytimes, Summer Reading, book clubs, trivia, special America 250 programming, and more. Visit their website and go to the Events tab for a complete list of upcoming events. 

2. Something’s Awry

Something’s Awry is a global animation studio with a soft spot for its local community. Producer Amy Theorin is on the board of the West Chester Film Festival, a member of the West Chester Chamber of Commerce, Sponsor for the West Chester Children's Business Fair, and a volunteer with the Borough’s Parks and Rec PROS Committee. She and her family will also be participating in Porchfest this year. Stop by on May 16 and rock out with the band! In the meantime, learn more about what they do at somethingsawryproductions.com and follow them on Instagram for a first look at their latest projects!

3. SLA Financial

SLA Financial has been a proud part of the West Chester community for over 30 years, providing financial planning, investment management, and retirement solutions to individuals, businesses, and families. Beyond their services, they actively support local charities, sponsor community events, and offer financial education initiatives. “Our commitment goes beyond finance—we’re invested in West Chester’s future,” says owner and financial adviser Kristen Taylor. Visit their website to learn more about how Kristen and team can help you reach your financial goals. 

4. Shankweiler & Co. 

As a Borough resident, Cassie Shankweiler founded the West Chester Walking Club and West Chester Social Club to foster community while supporting local businesses. Her events continue to gain momentum, including a recent Shop & Stroll that drew over 100 participants and featured more than 20 downtown businesses. She also runs a successful real estate and renovations business with her husband, Jamie. Visit shankweilerandco.com to learn more about how they can help you find a West Chester home you’ll love.

5. PetCare Group

PetCare Group is a professional pet-sitting and dog-walking company, available all day, every day of the year. Our team members also work in multiple rescue and foster organizations, and we do pet food donation drives annually. Our lives are dedicated to pet care and animal welfare in our community. Need someone to love and care for your pet when you can’t be there? Give Petcare Group a call at 610-738-2273 or schedule service online.

6. Mitten Systems

Alisha Mitten, owner of Mitten Systems, is rooted, quite literally, in the soil at the West End Community Garden, where she serves on the garden committee. She also volunteers with the St. Agnes Day Room and the Knights of Columbus, preparing meals to serve West Chester neighbors in need. (She’s also a wizard at optimizing organizational workflow.) Learn more at amitten.com.

7. The Lorgus Company

The Lorgus Company has owned and managed rental properties since 1976. Its flagship property is at 103 S. High Street, once the home of impressionist artist Mary Cassatt. The company continues that legacy today by working to honor and support local artists and professionals. Looking for office space in the borough? Learn more about the High St. property here. 

Fun Fact: The Lorgus Company was Hello, West Chester’s first-ever Community Sponsor!

8. Kit Anstey Real Estate Team

Associate brokers Kit Anstey and Debbie West live in the borough and specialize in residential real estate in West Chester and the surrounding areas. Service is first and foremost. Kit and Debbie are available seven days a week to serve all your real estate needs.  Reach out at any time.  Kit Anstey: (610) 836-2345, [email protected] Debbie West: (610) 563-3861, [email protected]

9. Hazley Builders | Architects

For 25 years, Hazley Builders | Architects has been committed to quality, innovation, and integrity in construction. The Hazley family is humbled to contribute to the community by supporting organizations, including the West Chester Downtown Foundation, West Chester Public Library, Unite for Her, Uptown, Friends Association for Care & Protection of Children, and Chester County Day. Visit Hazleybuilders.com to learn more.

10. Gladiator Fitness

Brian Louis of Gladiator Fitness was born and raised in West Chester and he feels very fortunate to live in a community that shares his values. Over the years, Brian has spent volunteer time with a variety of organizations, from North Star to the West Chester Food Cupboard. He has also served as a volunteer coach with East Side Little League, United Sports, and I9 Soccer. 

“Community and family are everything,” says Brian. Follow Gladiator Fitness on Instagram for fitness ideas and more. 

11. First Presbyterian Church of West Chester

Located at 130 W. Miner St., First Presbyterian Church has served the West Chester community for over 190 years. Blending historic tradition with a modern heart, First Pres offers vibrant worship and meaningful ministries for all ages. Through education, youth and family programs, and outreach like free meals, food and clothing support, and affordable housing, they seek to love God and neighbors in tangible ways. Learn how you can share your faith at firstpreswc.com.

12. Gregory Dexter, Financial Advisor

Gregory Dexter is a third-generation advisor with Eagle Strategies LLC and an agent with New York Life Insurance Company. New York Life is the highest-rated insurance carrier in the country, as well as one of the world’s largest money managers. Gregory specializes in holistic financial advice and guidance, helping clients achieve their financial goals whether through wealth management, insurance, or financial planning. Contact Gregory at [email protected] to learn more. 

13. Athletes Untapped

Athletes Untapped connects families with trusted private sports coaches for one-on-one lessons. Built by borough residents Gene and Elaine Williams, the platform's 3,000+ coaches help young athletes build skills and confidence. All coaches are highly vetted with awesome experience (college, pro, etc.). Gene and Elaine say they are proud to support families across Chester County!

Interested in individual instruction for your burgeoning athlete? Visit their athletesuntapped.com to find a local coach. 

14. Andrea Napoli, REALTOR® with Keller Williams Partners

Andrea Napoli, REALTOR® with Keller Williams Partners, is a lifelong West Chester resident and is invested in supporting and helping the community thrive. A seasoned real estate professional with deep local roots, she blends her professional experience and knowledge with a commitment to her clients and the community. Visit Andrea’s website or give Andrea a call or text at 610-405-8326 to learn more.

15. align.Space

The West Chester Community is invaluable to align.Space as a place where businesses and people can connect. This past fall, align.Space Marketing and Community Manager Lydia Pegler collaborated with West Chester University students, Alexa Banford and Rachel Haupt, in their Applied Marketing Course. The course was run by Professor Christina Croft. 

Visit www.align.space to schedule a tour of their newly refreshed interior! 

Thank you again to all our Hello, West Chester Community Sponsors! If you can support them, do, and if you see them out, tell them you saw them here.