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Neighbor of the Month: Ricardo Almodovar

September 30, 2019 | Department of Neighborhood Engagement Mayor's Office
By: Matthew Hesser

Congratulations to Ricardo Almodovar, who was named Neighbor of the Month for September!

Born and raised in Lancaster, Ricardo has lived in Lancaster for about 25 years.  After moving to Allentown for employment, he returned to Lancaster this past April. What Ricardo loves most about living in Lancaster City is the people.

“You run into so many folks in Lancaster from all backgrounds and perspectives in life, and no matter how different you are, Lancaster will accept you with open arms,” he said.

He was nominated by a neighbor for his involvement with Adopt-A-Block, as well as his LGBT and immigration advocacy work. His nomination read: “With help from his neighbors, Ricardo adopted the 200 block of E. Orange Street and has helped keep the area clean and free of trash and litter. In addition, as an openly gay man, he chose his Adopt-A-Block plaque to say “LGBT Neighbors and Allies” with a goal of promoting LGBT engagement in the heart of Lancaster. He also has been working diligently to build relationships with local residents and leaders to promote community engagement in both the LGBT and Latino community through frequent meetings, workshops and trainings as part of his work at CASA, a social justice organization based in the Latino and immigrant community.”

Ricardo is a Community Organizer for CASA Pennsylvania in Lancaster, as well as the Neighborhood Enhancement Projects Coordinator for the Lancaster City Alliance. He is also in Core Class 2020 for Leadership Lancaster, and in the process of obtaining a TreeVitalize Certificate through the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

Ricardo’s favorite park in Lancaster is Musser Park. It is a great nearby place to decompress, and the pop-up markets there in the summer are a great bonus! As a self-proclaimed “foodie,” he craves different foods each day, but his favorite city restaurants are Silantra Asian Street Kitchen and Himalayan Curry and Grill.

In his free time, Ricardo enjoys being active with hiking, running, and weight training. He also participates in Zumba, yoga and other group exercise classes. In addition, he enjoys playing music for concert and marching bands as a low brass instrumentalist. Each Pride Season, Ricardo travels to the east coast to perform in the Lesbian and Gay Big Apple Corps Marching Band.

Ricardo and his partner, who also serves the Lancaster City Alliance as an ambassador, live together in downtown Lancaster. They have found much support in the Red Rose City as an openly gay couple. In the future, Ricardo wants to purchase a home and raise five children with his partner.

Ricardo Almodovar is an exceptional member of the Lancaster City Community. Thank you for all that you have done to further improve our city!