Davida Jacobe-Hart is a passionate community leader and advocate whose lifelong dedication to service has had a profound impact on the residents of Winslow Township. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Davida was deeply influenced by her family’s involvement in the civil rights
movement and their connection to pioneering activists. Alongside her sisters, she was known as one of “Jacobe’s girls” Their mother, Dolores Jacobe, instilled in her daughters the importance of community engagement. Volunteering at local charities, churches, and business events became second nature to Davida. From an early age, she and her sisters learned the value of hard work, service, and social responsibility.
Mentoring youth became a cornerstone of Davida’s life. She worked tirelessly at the Philadelphia Youth Study Center, focusing on job readiness individuals. As a fixture in local YWCA and YMCA centers, she taught dance, mentored youth, and became a Big Sister in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Inspired by her oldest sister, who became the first African American Female Deputy Sheriff in Philadelphia, Davida’s commitment to justice, equality, and community service grew ever stronger. In 1988, her influence was further recognized when she became the youngest delegate and treasurer for Jesse Jackson’s Presidential Campaign in Philadelphia. This experience reinforced her belief in the power of community organizing and advocacy.
After relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, Davida had an important conversation with her father before his passing regarding her career options. She was torn between working in social services or transitioning to the banking industry. With a laugh, her father encouraged her to explore banking, saying, “You will always be doing social work.” Ultimately, she became the Regional Operations Manager for ATMs and was later promoted to Assistant Vice President of Operations in the banking industry.
In 1998, Davida relocated to Winslow Township, where she continued her leadership journey in the banking sector while becoming deeply involved in her community. She quickly joined the Home and School Association and volunteered with the Kidzercise Afterschool Program Recognizing a need in her community, she and her 5-year-old daughter founded “Bria’s Heart,” a charitable initiative that donated clothing, toys, and gifts to children with AIDS and abused women’s shelters.
Her ongoing efforts and dedication to local causes earned the attention of Mayor Wright, who became her mentor and introduced her to local government. Davida’s outreach expanded to organizing charitable initiatives, such as Christmas baskets, turkey giveaways, community
events, and writing Valentine’s Day cards for nursing homes. and working with the DOT
Organization.
Her leadership skills led to her election to the Winslow Township County Committee and as Deputy Municipal Chair. Following Mayor Wright’s passing, Davida was encouraged by influential women in the community to step into the role of Municipal Chair. As Chair, she
coordinated fundraising efforts and spearheaded election initiatives for the township, all while further strengthening her ties to the local community.
Today, Davida continues to serve as a trusted leader, working closely with Mayor Lawrence and others to improve the quality of life in Winslow Township. She has played a vital role in engaging local schools and helping students learn about the workings of local government. Davida plays a key role in numerous community events, including Painting in the Park, Halloween Truck or Treat, July 4th Fireworks Celebration, Family Day, Juneteenth, the Fall Festival, Job Fairs, Senior Luncheons, Tree Lighting ceremonies, and most recently, the Winslow High School football team’s Congratulations Parade. Additionally, she co-chaired the establishment of a scholarship fund for Winslow Township High School students through the Winslow Democrat Club. She also volunteers with a group of friends who cook and serve meals to displaced men at the Old First Reformed United Church of Christ in Philadelphia and contributes her time to the United Negro College Fund.
Through her unwavering dedication to her community, Davida Jacobe-Hart has built a lasting legacy, shaping a brighter future for generations to come. She is profoundly thankful for the support of her husband, son, daughter, and family, especially her 95-year-old mother, whose encouragement and guidance continue to inspire her success.
