January 14, 2026
Community Giving Foundation: Berwick is pleased to welcome three new board members in 2026.
Jilann Baron
Jilann Baron is a project engineer with Suffolk Construction, working in the Mission Critical sector. A graduate of Penn State with a degree in Architectural Engineering, Baron is passionate about building meaningful projects while also strengthening the communities around them. She serves as the Community Outreach and Leadership lead on her jobsite, organizing and participating in initiatives like Toys for Tots, YES! (Your Economic Success) Day, United Way drives and Day of Caring events, and Women in Construction programs. Baron is committed to creating positive, lasting impact by bringing people together, supporting local organizations, and helping others feel seen and supported.
“I am excited to partner with the Foundation because it brings people, resouces, and ideas together in ways that create meaningful, long-term impact. Serving on the board allows me to continue supporting causes I care about, while learning from others who are equally passionate about helping our communities. I look forward to collaborating, listening, and helping connect support where it is needed most – so that together, we can continue building a stronger future for our region.”
Dr. Roger F. Crake
Dr. Roger F. Crake is a life-long resident of Northeastern PA and a retired general surgeon. He graduated with a BS in Biology from The University of Scranton in 1974, obtained his medical degree from Jefferson College in 1978, and completed his surgical residency at the Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1983. He was a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a diplomat of the American Board of Surgery. Crake moved to Berwick in 1983 and started a surgical practice, which he ran until 2018. He served on many boards at the Berwick Hospital, including chairman of surgery, president of the medical staff, and chairman of credentials. Crake was also an assistant professor of surgery at Commonwealth Medical College. He enjoys skiing and hiking with his wife, son, and two grandchildren.
“I have always been community-minded and have tried to support our community to the best of my ability. I have seen firsthand how the Foundation has impacted our community, from its start in 1999 to seeing how grants have impacted nonprofits over the years. Now that I am retired, I have the time to devote to being an active board member. I am excited to partner with the Foundation to be a part of this positive community impact.”
Kelly O’Brien
Kelly O’Brien serves as the Executive Director of the Berwick Industrial Development Association (BIDA), where she leads regional economic development, workforce initiatives, and strategic partnerships across Columbia County and the surrounding region. Known for her collaborative leadership and ability to align public, private, and educational partners, O’Brien has been instrumental in advancing projects that strengthen local industry and support long-term community growth.
“I am excited to work alongside a group of dedicated leaders who share a commitment to fairness, equity, and the belief that strong communities are built through partnership. Together, I believe we can continue to move the region forward in ways that are thoughtful, collaborative, and lasting.”
About Community Giving Foundation: Berwick
In addition to three new board members, the Foundation’s Berwick board is represented by: Cynthia Lombard (chair), Damien Scoblink (vice-chair), Thomas Popko (financial liaison), Jimmy Bach, Nyle Berkes, Matthew Getty, Michael Goresh, Amber Hughes, Raymond Karafinski, Michael McNeal, Marc Nespoli, and Rebecca S. Reimiller.
Berwick is an affiliate of the Community Giving Foundation, which identifies regional and local needs and opportunities through a data-driven lens. The Foundation manages over 385 charitable funds, helping donors maximize their community impact in the Central Susquehanna region both now and for future generations. Learn more at csgiving.org/data.
L to R: Jilann Baron; Dr. Roger F. Crake; Kelly O’Brien