See Our Finalists in: CHOOSE A COMMUNITY ----------------- CURRENT COMMUNITY Allentown (est. 1999) Bethlehem (est. 2006) Coplay (est. 2007) Easton (est. 2004) Farrell / Sharon (est. 2008) Northern Lehigh (est. 2007) Penbrook (est. 2008) Strawberry Mansion, Philadelphia (est. 2008) Quakertown (est. 2007) Whitehall (est. 2008)- ----------------- FUTURE COMMUNITY Erie (future community) Harrisburg (future community) Pittsburgh (future community) Scranton / Wilkes Barre (future community) Williamsport (future community)

POM™ Testimonials

We’d like to share with you what folks say about POM.
Do you have a POM story to share?

POM has been very important for this project and for the City of Allentown. It steps in and recognizes those individuals that are making an effort to revitalize their properties for the betterment of the community. POM has helped to raise people’s enthusiasm in what is happening locally and bring that spirit [of enthusiasm] back to Allentown. That spirit is definitely alive here on Auburn Street thanks to the committed team at Auburn Station and the Properties of Merit organization.
– John Bishop, 2004 Renaissance Award Winner, Auburn Station Allentown, PA 2007

 

We don’t traditionally think of do-gooding as part of a firm’s economic picture, especially when faced with the financial pressures of managing a business. But consider this: According to the research of two Harvard Business School professors, over an 11-year period, companies that emphasized community as well as investors out performed by a factor of 756 those that paid attention to the bottom line only. In addition, companies that partner with nonprofits experience bottom-line results through increased sales and long-term customer and employee loyalty.
– CIO Magazine May 15, 2000

 

Susquehanna Patriot Bank is pleased to support Properties of Merit and we are honored to be a Foundation Sponsor Partner. This partnership encourages city-wide participation in the Properties of Merit program, which has a proven track record of keeping morale and momentum moving forward in communities seeking to revitalize and better themselves. We are impressed with the leadership demonstrated by Properties of Merit and the dedication of local residents and businesses to making a difference in their community.
– Ellen Crain, Senior Vice President and Community Development Officer, Susquehanna Patriot Bank, Lehigh Valley POM Community Sponsor 2007

 

Three years ago, I had to really search some of the neighborhoods to find qualifying properties. Now I see a difference. Everyone is trying to get recognized now in my POM Nomination Area
– Michele Unger, The Morning Call Op-Ed Sept 13th, 2002

 

The Construction Company not only gave us an opportunity to take an active role in the revitalization of our school, but also taught us business lessons invaluable out in the real world.
– George H. Schadler III, Former Student Body President, William Allen High School 2003; POM Administrative and Web Site Director 2007

 

Last year, as I was standing in the living room of Patricia Annoni congratulating her on being a 2004 (Allentown) Properties of Merit Founder’s Choice recipient, law enforcement officers were streaming in and out of an adjacent property. She suspected a drug bust was happening next door. A year later, Patricia’s property looks more beautiful than ever, anchoring her whole block. Without her meticulous flowers, bench and flag, her center city street would look that much more attractive to crime. A perfect example of what happens when you recognize owners for taking excellent care of their properties: they do more of it and inspire others to do the same.
– The Morning Call Op-Ed Sept 25, 2005

 

I had a good experience as a judge, it was fun and I enjoyed meeting the different business owners. As an associate at Just Born, I was pleased to see how my co-workers were excited about participating in the voting. Just Born was equally excited about receiving the Best Overall award for businesses in this area of the city.
– Cindy Glick ,Corporate Affairs Director, Just Born,
2006 Bethlehem Business Finalist

 

I got involved with the POM program because it helped cleanup the neighborhood and enrich the self esteem of the local families. It prompted people to revitalize their properties and return some of the beauty that they once had. I would encourage others to participate in this program because it is very helpful and is a great way to bring the community together
– William Asayag, Publisher of La Cronica Newspaper, POM Board Member, Allentown, PA 2007

 

A healthy and beautiful block creates a more healthy and beautiful community. Our neighboring business owners already took pride in their block by sweeping the sidewalks daily, but this public recognition as winner of the Grand Prize award started them to get out the paint and even an incentive to develop new signage. With the new “Elm Street Project” in full swing and the new “Bethlehem in Bloom Project” in development Ambre’ Studio is encouraging our neighbors to envision a tree lined street with flower containers and historic lamp posts in their future. West Broad St. is a window view into historic main street Bethlehem. This corridor and these architectural gem buildings set the tone for the grandness of our historic downtown.
– Evelyn Beckman, Owner and Operator Ambre’ Studio Bethlehem, PA
  Bethlehem Grand Prize Winner