ACCD Welcomes New Staff and Board Members
ACCD is thrilled to announce the addition of new staff and board members. Combined, they bring expertise in agriculture, economic development and public policy to further our mission of protecting, preserving and restoring Allegheny County’s natural resources.
Meet New Board Member: Lisa Freeman
Lisa Freeman is an urban farmer, social worker, chef and the founder of Freeman Family Farm & Greenhouse. With dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Administration, Lisa has dedicated her career to addressing the needs of under-resourced communities. She founded Manchester Growing Together Garden, which has evolved into Freeman Family Farm, a community hub providing fresh food, outdoor education and job opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
In 2022, Lisa received a $175,000 grant from the USDA’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative, which she used to build a market in Manchester, a food desert community. Lisa’s leadership extended to the national stage when she was appointed to the Pennsylvania Farm Service Agency State Committee by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack under the Biden Administration. Her focus on local food access and community empowerment will strengthen ACCD’s initiatives in environmental justice and urban agriculture.
Meet Municipal Engagement Manager: Olivia Perfetti
Olivia, a Pittsburgh native, studied Environmental Science and Urban Planning at the University of Michigan and has worked with PennEnvironment on clean air, water and climate change advocacy. While pursuing a graduate degree in Public Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University, she interned with Pittsburgh City Council, Pennsylvania’s 21st legislative district and Mobilify SWPA.
At ACCD, Olivia is eager to help municipalities grow tree canopy and greenspaces in environmental justice communities. She’s passionate about conservation because a healthy environment is essential for clean water, air and a livable climate. In her free time, you’ll find Olivia outdoors, walking through Frick Park and identifying trees.
Contact Olivia at operfetti@accdpa.org.
With these new members, ACCD continues to grow its staff and leadership teams, fostering a collective vision for a healthy and resilient Allegheny County.
Meet the Team