SBN’s Meet Our Ambassadors Series
Ambassadors are SBN Members that commit to one year of expanded involvement within our network. They serve as flag-bearers for SBN. In this series, we highlight the work and stories of our Ambassadors.
How long have you been an SBN member and when did you first hear about SBN and its mission?
We joined SBN shortly after starting our company in 2008 because we knew we wanted to connect with businesses with similar values.
Can you share a moment or experience that solidified your commitment to triple-bottom line principles for businesses?
I have always been in the landscape industry, and as I became more knowledgeable about the environmental consequences of poor landscape management, I decided I had to be a voice for change. That is why, when we started GreenWeaver environmentalism became part of our mission. That is also why we spend time teaching and public speaking on the subject.
What aspects of your business are you most proud of?
I am proud of the body of our work. From small residential projects to working with watershed organizations on streamside plantings, we always try to meet our clients where they are and incorporate sustainable landscape practices along the way.
And do you have any recent projects, events, or news that you are excited about that you want to share with our network?
The Bridge on Race Street’s green roof landscape was our most exciting project in Philadelphia this year. Trees and soil were craned up to the 5th floor and several contractors had to coordinate efforts to meet a tight schedule under difficult conditions.
What is your vision for the sustainable business community in the Philadelphia region?
I see the sustainable business community changing the future of business nationwide. We are the answer to so many seemingly retractable issues like income disparity, institutional racism and inequality, and climate change. The future is us!
What is your favorite SBN program or member benefit?
GSI Partners, definitely. We are heavily involved in stormwater management, and the networking, education, and grant funding is invaluable.
How did you end up in Philadelphia?
We used to live in Northern Virginia and moved to Media, PA for family reasons. This area is much less transient with a much greater sense of community and it has been a very good move for us.
What do you love about our city / region?
I love the mid-Atlantic. I love the seasons, the diversity of people, and the opportunities for my kids. I love the ability to be in the city, the mountains, or the beach, all within a short drive.
What is your favorite place in Philadelphia to spend your day off?
The Barnes Foundation is one of the most impressive art collections anywhere, but I also love the Brandywine Museum in Chadds Ford!
What is your favorite restaurant or bar in Philadelphia?
I actually don’t get into Philadelphia that often, and when I do, I usually go to someplace new. My go-to place is a hole-in-the-wall called John’s Grille in Media with a nice beer selection, good service, reasonable prices, and a juke box for music. Food and atmosphere are adequate, but nobody goes there for that!
To learn more about Jennifer and her work, visit GreenWeaver Landscapes on their website or Facebook page.
To see the full list of SBN Ambassadors, click here.
