Marita Garrett

Public service and civic duty is Marita Garrett’s DNA. She was born into a family that firmly believed in exercising their civic duty and spirit of volunteerism. Her drive and commitment to serving under-resourced communities is palpable.

In 2017, Marita created, Civically, Inc, a social enterprise that focuses on community development by promoting civic and social literacy to instill self-reliance. Initiatives include Free Store Wilkinsburg, Fresh Market, Civically Speaking, as well as initiatives for health literacy and education. In 2019, Civically, Inc. acquired the Hunter Building – the largest commercial building in downtown Wilkinsburg – to stabilize an anchor building and catalyze economic development in the Borough. Largely influential for the renewed interested in Wilkinsburg’s revitalization, she was awarded the Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence for Promoting Community & Economic Revitalization in 2020.

After being elected Mayor in 2017, Marita reinstated the Public Safety Forums to highlight updates in the Wilkinsburg Police Department, which increased connections between the Department and residents. Furthermore, she advocated for increased participation in the Borough’s Boards & Commission, which has seen more residents than ever get involved.

Marita has been recognized for her leadership and diligence in civic and community engagement by numerous organizations and media outlets.

In her free time, you can catch Marita at a dog park with her furbabies, catching a show in the Pittsburgh Cultural District, or at Wilkinsburg’s gem BB&Bur ordering a lavender cold brew.