Jennifer Stoltzfoos, Program Manager at The Food Trust
Lives in West Reading
What brought you back to Greater Reading?
I grew up in New York City, went to college in Vermont, moved to Reading and then moved to Indiana. I’ve lived in a few different places, all cities that varied in population size and the environments were different. After living in Indiana I made the decision to move back to Reading. My family lives in Reading, and I missed the place I was just starting to get to know. The City of Reading and West Reading really felt like home; it’s the perfect size, there are always events to keep me busy. I love the feeling of the local community, and Berks County pride. Throughout the years I’ve met people through work, many of my coworkers have become really great friends. I can’t thank them enough for showing me all the cool places around us. Reading will always have a special place in my heart; it’s where I’ve decided to plant my roots. It’s the place where I met my husband and bought our first home.
I grew up in New York City, went to college in Vermont, moved to Reading and then moved to Indiana. I’ve lived in a few different places, all cities that varied in population size and the environments were different. After living in Indiana I made the decision to move back to Reading. My family lives in Reading, and I missed the place I was just starting to get to know. The City of Reading and West Reading really felt like home; it’s the perfect size, there are always events to keep me busy. I love the feeling of the local community, and Berks County pride. Throughout the years I’ve met people through work, many of my coworkers have become really great friends. I can’t thank them enough for showing me all the cool places around us. Reading will always have a special place in my heart; it’s where I’ve decided to plant my roots. It’s the place where I met my husband and bought our first home.
How has Greater Reading changed since you first left?
I would say that the Reading area has changed with new businesses popping up in the area. Friends that come to visit really enjoy dining out and child friendly activities. The events during the summer are a lot of fun, I slowly keep adding more to my calendar.
I would say that the Reading area has changed with new businesses popping up in the area. Friends that come to visit really enjoy dining out and child friendly activities. The events during the summer are a lot of fun, I slowly keep adding more to my calendar.
What do you appreciate most about living here?
I appreciate how close everything is to us, we have plenty of amenities throughout the county; libraries, major hospitals, great farmers markets, the Santander Arena, FirstEnergy Stadium, and the Reading Public Museum! It’s convenient to have an airport near us, and other major cities; my non-PA friends are able to easily come for a visit.
I appreciate how close everything is to us, we have plenty of amenities throughout the county; libraries, major hospitals, great farmers markets, the Santander Arena, FirstEnergy Stadium, and the Reading Public Museum! It’s convenient to have an airport near us, and other major cities; my non-PA friends are able to easily come for a visit.
What advice would you give to others considering moving back to the area?
If you grew up in the area, and left… Consider experiencing Reading as an adult!
If you grew up in the area, and left… Consider experiencing Reading as an adult!
What did you miss most about Greater Reading when you were away?
Sense of community. I felt like I belonged, when people would find out I was new to the area, they were eager to share their favorite spots, connect me to their professional network, and invite me to friend outings/events. I truly think the Greater Reading area is the right size for me; as an introvert I didn’t get “lost” in the city, compared to other environments I was in.
Sense of community. I felt like I belonged, when people would find out I was new to the area, they were eager to share their favorite spots, connect me to their professional network, and invite me to friend outings/events. I truly think the Greater Reading area is the right size for me; as an introvert I didn’t get “lost” in the city, compared to other environments I was in.
