What excites me most about serving this community as your City Councilor is the opportunity to bring my 15 years of private sector experience, non profit board service, and most importantly what I have learned being a father to the constituents of Ward 9.
My name is Vinny Gebhart and I’m running to represent Ward 9 for City Council. I live in Cowesett with my wonderful family— my wife Jill, and my children, Jack and Charlie. I have a deep love for our community, so much so that I have decided to pursue a role as public servant representing Ward 9. Despite having a young family and a demanding career, I stand before you today resolved to provide leadership, support, and a listening ear to the concerns of each member of our community.
I am a native of Cranston, educated in public elementary schools, LaSalle Academy, and Providence College. My upbringing was rooted in faith, family, and community and supported by two loving parents, my late mother Leslie and my father Vince. Throughout my life my parents encouraged my development, and cheered me on as I pursued my passions. In 2015, I was elected by my peers as Class Speaker during my experience with Leadership Rhode Island. It was then that I felt a personal obligation to get more involved in public service. Since then, I have served on the Board of Governors of Leadership Rhode Island and in that time have had the chance to meet, train with, and support dozens of other leaders across the state. Their inspiration, encouragement, and servant leadership are a major reason why I am running for City Council.
The more personal reason why I am seeking this office is for my children. Jack and Charlie are incredible kids and seeing them grow up in Warwick is my inspiration for service. I have a vision for their future that includes getting a great education, participating in sports and activities, and going on to pursue successful careers. As councilman, I will focus on schools, school facilities, and their funding so all the kids in Warwick can have a high-quality education.
These are trying times for many of us. If your family has been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis; my prayers are with you. Our nation faces unprecedented challenges economically, socially, and morally. We need steady-handed leadership who can understand the complex issues, collaborate with constituents and City leaders alike to craft solutions that work for the whole community. Equity, discipline, and prosperity should be our paramount priorities.
I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to serve as your City Councilor. I will bring my 15 years of private sector experience, non-profit board service, and most importantly what I have learned being a father, husband, and community member; to the constituents of Ward 9. We have many great challenges ahead of us, but I believe that Warwick has tremendous potential for the future. If you feel similarly, I’d love your support. If you disagree, I’d love to hear from you as well. Email me at vinny@gebhartforwarwick.com, or text or call me at (401) 307-1284 or schedule a time that works to chat here. I’d love to hear from you.