My Priorities: Strengthening Reading and Berks County

In Reading and Berks County, we share values like healthy families and strong communities, but local divides hold us back—by uniting across backgrounds, we achieve real progress for all.

Manny Guzman at back-to-school event in Reading PA

In Reading and Berks County, we all value giving our kids the best start through quality education, but economic pressures and local divides mean students in diverse urban schools often face bigger challenges, like outdated resources or limited bilingual options. When outside influences cut funding and spark debates that split our communities, it holds back progress for every family, but by uniting as in our recent school collaborations, we create brighter futures together. Manny is dedicated to bridging these gaps right here in our district.

  • Sponsored funding reforms for Reading schools.
  • Partnered on bilingual programs across Berks.
  • 2025 Goal: Expand after-school initiatives county-wide.
Manny Guzman at small business event in Berks County

Berks County's working families deserve thriving economies with good-paying jobs, but local divides—fueled by outside interests blaming immigrants for shortages—make it tougher for everyone, from Reading's downtown shops to rural businesses. These tactics distract from real issues like underinvestment, hurting all our communities, but when we unite as in securing the CRIZ designation, we drive growth that benefits us all. Manny led the push to bring CRIZ to Reading in 2024-2025, unlocking tools for redevelopment and new opportunities.

  • Hosted job fairs connecting diverse residents in Reading.
  • Co-sponsored revitalization for Berks areas.
  • 2025 Goal: Leverage CRIZ for minimum wage hikes and commuter improvements.
Manny Guzman with seniors at community event in Reading PA

Every family in Berks County should have access to affordable healthcare, but economic strains and community divides mean some areas—like diverse Reading spots—face steeper barriers to services such as mental health or preventive check-ups. When profit-focused outsiders push policies that pit us against each other over funding, it weakens care for all, but uniting in efforts like our community health partnerships ensures better health for everyone. Manny fights for equitable solutions tailored to our county.

  • Supported clinics serving Reading's populations.
  • Tackled disparities in Berks maternal care.
  • 2025 Goal: Cut costs for seniors across the county.
Manny Guzman at gun violence prevention event in Berks County

We all want safe streets and strong communities in Berks County, but local divides—amplified by outside voices blaming certain groups—erode trust and stretch resources thin, from Reading's urban blocks to quieter rural areas. These strategies distract from real solutions, impacting every resident, but when we come together on initiatives like community policing, we build security that unites us. Manny invests in smart, inclusive approaches for our district.

  • Backed equitable policing reforms in Berks.
  • Partnered on youth outreach in Reading.
  • 2025 Goal: Fund restorative programs county-wide.
Manny Guzman speaking at outdoor environment event in Reading PA

Protecting Berks County's clean air, water, and green spaces is a priority we all share, but economic challenges and local debates—often stirred by external polluters—disproportionately affect areas like Reading's riverfronts. When big interests exploit these splits to avoid accountability, it harms our whole county, but uniting in projects like our conservation efforts leads to sustainable wins for families. Manny advocates for green policies that strengthen our communities together.

  • Voted for renewables targeting Berks sites.
  • Promoted anti-pollution drives in Reading.
  • 2025 Goal: Create green jobs for diverse Berks residents.