The Rhea and Phil Starr Social Justice Award recognizes those who, in their personal or professional life, works to better support the needs of marginalized communities (underrepresented groups) in Lancaster County. This individual strives to create equity for all so that everyone can meet their fullest potential. The award will be presented at the discretion of its board of directors.
This award is named in honor of Rhea and the late Phil Starr, longtime residents of Lancaster County, who worked tirelessly to ensure individuals and groups receive fair treatment and share equally in the benefits of society. Some of their accomplishments:
Phil Starr:
Rhea Starr:
Award Criteria
This award is named in honor of Rhea and the late Phil Starr, longtime residents of Lancaster County, who worked tirelessly to ensure individuals and groups receive fair treatment and share equally in the benefits of society. Some of their accomplishments:
Phil Starr:
- Co-founded the PA Food Bank
- Served as Executive Director of the Southeast Lancaster Health Center overseeing its expansion (now Union Community Care)
- Past member of the School District of Lancaster School Board
- Director of Jewish Family Service of Lancaster
Rhea Starr:
- Lancaster YWCA, directed Lancaster's first child care program for infants and toddlers and the first employer supported child care program
- At the National YWCA, served as Director of Child Care among other positions
- Former chair of the Lancaster Fair Housing Committee of the Lancaster County Human Relations Commission
Award Criteria
- Honoree must be a resident of Lancaster County or work in Lancaster County
- Engage in activities that promote the advancement of underrepresented groups in Lancaster County
- Demonstrate a history of community actions that allow individuals to realize their potential
- Engage in ongoing acts of community service, social justice, advocacy, or racial reconciliation.
Past Winners
