Sonja Forte

Executive Director, Baxter Community Center
Champion of Service

Service to others has always been a part of Sonja Forte’s life. It’s something she believes everyone should do, as we’ll all need to be served at some point, in some way.

As Executive Director of Baxter Community Center, Forte leads a team that offers services to neighbors and spaces where the community can come together to feel not only cared for, but wholeheartedly welcomed. Forte is intentional about being a “quiet force,” staying off the radar and moving discreetly in her efforts. She’s best known for her unique point of view and for challenging the idea of going along to get along. In doing so, she often shifts conversations in the room, challenging the direction of efforts. Forte has also spent years championing the support of Black Owned Businesses—particularly by other businesses, government and local organizations. It’s her belief that everyone should be able to pursue their own dreams, however they see them. 

Forte shares, “It took me a long time to realize that by simply being myself, a kind yet direct woman with a quirky outlook on life, that it becomes a nonverbal affirmation (and even permission) for others to do the same.”