Non-Profit Heroes: Southland Development Authority

In this episode of Resource Sessions, Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk of Sterk Family Law Group, P.C., spotlights the Southland Development Authority (SDA) as the Non-Profit Hero. Joined by CEO Bo Kemp and Vice President of Programs & Client Services, Manny Davila, the conversation dives deep into the organization's mission to revitalize and economically empower the South Suburbs of Cook County.Bo Kemp shares the story behind SDA’s formation in 2019 and its roots in collaborative efforts to address the unique economic development challenges of small municipalities. The discussion highlights SDA’s innovative programs born out of the pandemic, especially the now-core Business Growth Services, which has helped hundreds of local businesses thrive and secure nearly $11 million in relief funding.Manny Davila explains how SDA works hands-on with business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, from those launching kitchen-table startups to seasoned manufacturers, through strategic support, training, and access to resources. He also outlines initiatives like the Metals Hub, a workforce and supplier development program aimed at revitalizing local manufacturing and addressing national supply chain needs.Listeners will also learn about SDA’s real estate redevelopment work, including land banking, cold storage facilities, and the major Project Bloom industrial site in University Park. The episode culminates with a preview of the Achieve Summit 2025, a landmark event in Tinley Park, IL, set to bring entrepreneurs, developers, and thought leaders together, featuring Shark Tank’s Daymond John as a keynote speaker.This episode showcases how local economic development can spark regional and national impact—and how listeners can get involved, whether as entrepreneurs, supporters, or investors in the future of the Southland.For more information about the SDA, visit: https://southlanddevelopment.org/Learn more about Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. at: https://www.sterkfamilylaw.com/Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.************** This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.