Crider adds GOP candidate for Franklin County commissioner to long list of community roles
Kim Crider, small business owner and active community volunteer, is launching her campaign for Franklin County Commissioner. Crider is a Republican and long-term resident of Franklin County who built her small business from the ground up while contributing to a wide variety of local organizations.
“My involvement in our community over the years has instilled in me a passion for making a difference,” said Crider. “Our community has a strong heritage, and I know I will make a positive impact as Commissioner bridging our historic values with smart decisions to lead Franklin County into a prosperous future.”
Crider, who resides in Chambersburg with her son, founded her health and wellness business in 2009. Through Optavia, she provides comprehensive health coaching to individuals, helping them reach their goals through a healthy body, healthy mind and healthy finances.
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“Running my own business has taught me the importance of financial stability,” explained Crider, “and how vital our small, locally-owned businesses are to our economy and our community.”
Crider has spent over 30 years in the health and wellness industry and has worked for local organizations such as Wilson College and Summit Health in a variety of roles, from personal trainer to mental health counselor to yoga instructor.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Crider has made civic engagement a priority. She has dedicated countless hours to serving on local boards and committees, volunteering at events, and offering her health expertise.
Crider is currently the chair of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce and serves on the boards for Chambersburg Area Development Corp., United Way of Franklin County and the Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation. She served for three years with her son as co-chair for Campaign for Coyle to lead fundraising and planning efforts of the extensive Coyle Free Library renovations. She also volunteers for various organizations such as Occupational Services Inc., Women in Need and Franklin County Government.
Crider is an active member of the Rotary Club of Chambersburg and uses the Rotary Four-Way Test as an ethical guide in all aspects of her life. The Four-Way Test asks, “Of the things we think, say or do: is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?”
“The guiding principles I’ve learned through Rotary are directly transferable to public service,” said Crider. “As County Commissioner, I would ensure responsible local government with the best interest of people in mind.”
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To celebrate the launch of her campaign, Crider is hosting a Campaign Kick-off and Petition Signing on Thursday, February 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Coyle Free Library Terrace, 102 N. Main St., Chambersburg. The event is free and open to the public, with light refreshments available. Crider invites everyone to drop by anytime between 5 and 8 p.m. to meet her, learn more about her, and support her candidacy by signing the petition. Planning is underway for more meet-and-greet events throughout Franklin County, as well.
“I am excited about this opportunity to serve the community I love as Commissioner. I bring to the table a fresh set of eyes along with the small town ideals we all hold dear, and plan to build upon everything that makes Franklin County a great place to raise a family, grow a business, and succeed as a community,” said Crider.
For more information about Crider and her campaign, visit www.Facebook.com/Crider4Commissioner.
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With Crider, Republican voters could have four choices for commissioner this May in the primary election.
Business owner John Flannery and incumbents Bob Thomas and Dave Keller previously announced their bids. However, Keller is also seeking the Republican nomination in the special election for the state Senate seat from which Richard Alloway is retiring, and said he will withdraw from the commissioner race if chosen.
Up to two candidates of each party will move on to the Nov. 5 general election. The three candidates that receive the most votes will win seats.
On the Democratic side, incumbent Bob Ziobrowski and Sheri Morgan, an epidemiologist with Franklin/Fulton Mental Health Association, are running.