Our Purpose is to empower residents and revitalize our neighborhoods through sustainable development, community engagement, and economic empowerment.

MainST's collaboration with community partners to improve the region's social impact through equitable wealth building is a strategic approach addressing economic disparities and fostering community empowerment. MainST is particularly focused on supporting underrepresented communities, aiming to enhance their economic capabilities and promote sustained economic prosperity. Main ST and its community partners will lay a solid foundation for sustained economic prosperity, empowering underrepresented communities to amplify their economic abilities and achieve equitable wealth building.

Empowerment Through Action

Why we want to help

Main ST is not just an organization; it's a movement dedicated to the revitalization and cultural preservation of underrepresented communities.

Mad in response to the profound and multifaceted impact of economic inequities. The founders were deeply concerned about the economic decline in many communities, particularly affecting small underrepresented businesses, especially Black-owned businesses, due to lack of access to resources. This economic decline has led to:

Over the years, our efforts aim to address these challenges have evolved to restoring economic viability, and fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all community members.

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Main ST Values

What we do works

At MainST, we are dedicated to uplifting small and underrepresented businesses. Our initiatives have led to significant growth and empowerment within the communities we serve.

We connect (representation and reliability)

Main ST is representative of the people we serve.  As a small minority-led organization with staff who live and work in the same communities we serve, we can relate to those we help. We connect with and understand the challenges faced by underrepresented individuals and businesses. This allows us to establish trusting and meaningful relationships.

We understand (relatable expertise and experience)

Main ST has firsthand experience in overcoming challenges related to building economic capacity.  This insight enables us to lead others through similar obstacles, helping them achieve their economic goals.

We care (empathy and care)

Main ST genuinely cares about the success of individuals and is invested in preparing a new generation for economic participation either as business owner or leaders. Our compassion and dedication contribute to a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters growth and empowerment.

We partner (collaborative approach)

Main ST understands the power of partnerships and actively collaborates with other organizaton to expand the reach of equitable economic participation. Main ST has developed strong relationships and partnerships with various organizations, schools, and community stakeholders in the area we serve. By woking together with our partners, we are able to leverage shared resources, knowledge and networks to create a more significant impact. These connections allows us to access resources, funding and support for our programs and services.  

Empowerment

Our Team

Meet the dedicated professionals behind MainST's mission.

Lori Rue
Executive Director

Leading initiatives that empower small businesses to thrive and succeed in their communities.

Manden McCaskill
Executive Creative Director

Crafting compelling narratives to elevate our clients' visibility and engagement in the marketplace.

Meairra McCaskill
Executive Assistant

Providing strategic financial insights to help businesses achieve sustainable growth and stability.

Tyler Butler
Creative Director

Streamlining processes to enhance efficiency and support our clients' operational needs effectively.

We're hiring!

Join our passionate team and make a difference.

Mon Metro Chamber of Commerce
Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool Youth Development Network (PSAYDN)- Quality Committee Member
Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO)
Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership (GPNP)
Reimagine Appalachia
Sustainable Pittsburgh
(About page)

Empowerment

Board Members

Get to know the committed people driving MainST's mission.

Devone Ford
Board Chair

Alice brings over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and community engagement.

Georgetta L. Rue
Treasurer Officer

Mark specializes in financial strategy and has a passion for supporting small businesses.

Dr. Lisa Franklin Robinson
Secretary Officer

Linda is dedicated to community development and has extensive experience in organizational management.

Marcella Brewer
Board Member

James has a strong background in marketing and advocacy for underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Linda C. Weil
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Dr. Patricia DeMarco
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John Ward
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Terry Washington
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We're looking for new members!

Join our mission to empower small businesses today.

Customer Testimonials

Empowering entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams.

"MainST provided the support I needed to thrive. Their resources transformed my business approach!"

Jane Doe
Owner, Dream Bakery

"Thanks to MainST, I gained confidence and clarity. Their guidance was invaluable for my startup!"

John Smith
Founder, Tech Innovate

Join Us in Empowering Businesses

Discover how you can support small businesses and help them thrive in your community.