Celebrating 30 Years of Service

“Love God, love people.” That simple yet powerful phrase was the heartbeat of Don Coppedge’s life. A devoted member of the Phoenixville community, Don turned his deep compassion into action when he founded Petra Community Housing, originally known as Phoenixville Homes. With the support of the Phoenixville Minister’s Association, Don led the charge to officially incorporate the organization in December 1994, determined to make homeownership and stability possible for those who needed it most.

At the time, finding affordable housing in Phoenixville was a daunting challenge. But Don and the team behind Petra didn’t shy away—they stepped in. The organization began by offering financial assistance to low-income families and first-time homebuyers, opening doors that once felt firmly shut.

As the need grew, so did Petra’s response. They transformed two abandoned factories in Spring City into warm, welcoming homes for senior citizens. Around the same time, a factory in Royersford was converted into 19 units of affordable housing for individuals living with disabilities—a place where dignity and independence could thrive. Their mission expanded with additional projects in Schwenksville and Phoenixville, each one a testament to Petra’s unwavering belief that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home.

On April 24, Petra celebrated 30 years of service—thirty years of love in action—by doing what they’ve always done best: giving. In a spirit of gratitude, Petra hosted a special luncheon to honor the partner organizations that have walked alongside their residents, providing support with security deposits, rent, food, and education during their times of need.

The celebration took place in the Community Room at SteelTown Village in Phoenixville, and was catered by Pink Moose of Spring City. It was a time filled with warmth, reflection, and recognition for the incredible work of Petra’s partners: Orion Communities, Open Hearth, Phoenixville Area Community Services, Friends Association, Good Samaritan Services, Home of the Sparrow, and Phoenixville’s Communities That Care.

Together, they’ve built more than housing—they’ve built hope. And thanks to the foundation Don Coppedge laid all those years ago, that hope continues to grow.

Thank you to all the sponsor’s of the 30th Celebration event:

• Joan F. Lyon
• Scanlon Industrial Companies
• Phoenixville Federal Bank and Trust
• Barry Isett & Associates
• J.P. Mascaro & Sons
• CTN Solutions
• OWM Law
• C. Raymond Davis & Sons
• Scargill McClurken Insurance
• Sisters of Mercy
• My Dad’s Flooring
• Patrick J. Kelly Insurance Group
• Thomas Insurance Group
• Fulton Bank
• Steve and Pat Kambic