Local Voices: Anita Lewis

For this feature, we wanted to highlight a local voice. Meet Anita Lewis, a native of Elmira, NY, whose love for her community and passion for her work has kept her deeply rooted here.

Anita Lewis was born in Elmira, NY, and has lived there her entire life. “I have two children and was inspired to raise them here because of the services available to us and the small but family-oriented community.”

Growing up in the community, Anita remembers its comfort and friendliness. “I was involved in many activities as a child,” she said. “My school and mom taught me to be resilient yet forthright and successful.” She added, “I feel fortunate to be a leader in this community and strive to help people as people have helped me. I live to fix things and see them succeed.”

She is the Chief Development Officer for the Economic Opportunity Program (EOP) of Chemung and Schuyler Counties. She works with the Multiple Program Operating and Funding Development, a job she has held for 24 years. “My work allows me to stay connected through the community service that I provide daily at EOP,” she said, adding, “Supporting youth development, volunteering on boards that touch the community, seeing good things happen- work that leads to a healthy community, financially and mentality, further inspires me.”

Anita never considered leaving Elmira because of the motivation her work brings to her and the positive outcomes she has witnessed for others. But she also had more personal reasons to stay. “My son has a disability from birth,” she shared, “and we receive services through The Arc of Chemung Schuyler, where he has a residence since age 14. He is now 45.” She continued, “He has developed maturity and has learned so much as he has grown up.” Anita is a board member of The Arc. “It is such a great agency for people with disabilities from residential to Community Services and other services,” she said.

While Anita loves her small comforts and community, she also likes being able to travel to a larger city easily. She enjoys performing with her band, Top Shelf.

Anita finds that her hometown is too often underrated. “People take the peace and living in a small community for granted until they leave it. It’s nice to visit other places, but I would not want to always live in a big city.”

For those who might be considering relocating somewhere new, Anita says, “I would tell those unfamiliar with the Southern Tier to visit. Check out all the beautiful tourist places, go out, and experience the wineries, the lakes, and the surrounding peace. Look at all of the events and activities to meet new people.” She added, “Talk to people in the community and see what the local Chamber of Commerce has to offer for professional opportunities.”

Thank you, Anita, for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.