As an extension and virtual reimagination of our annual Excellence Awards, Inspiring Excellence shines spotlights on the small and mid-size businesses who have made a difference in our community during these unprecedented times. With input from the Excellence Awards Committee, the Chamber chose 10 organizations to recognize whose stories have inspired our members.
As the founder and co-owner of High Street Hospitality Group (HSHG), restaurateur Ellen Yin operates five of the country’s most noteworthy restaurants and bars: Fork, High Street on Market, High Street Provisions, and a.kitchen+bar in Philadelphia and High Street on Hudson in Manhattan.
Yin is an industry and community leader. As a participant in initiatives like Everybody Eats Philly, which provides meals to low-income households, Yin plays a key role in feeding the underserved Philadelphia Community. In the wake of COVID-19, she was eager to continue that effort. HSHG helped spearhead the Fuel the Fight campaign, providing meals from local restaurants for healthcare workers. The initiative aims to feed hospital employees and keep restaurants operating amid the epidemic.
Additionally, Fork has been heavily involved with Food Connect Group, a local organization dedicated to fighting hunger, and has served thousands of meals to local families in need throughout the pandemic. HSHG believes feeding people the best food possible is an integral aspect of their overall mission.
Yin took her efforts a step farther when she realized the disproportionate effect of COVID-19 on hospitality workers. Yin teamed up with A Better Life Therapy to offer free mental health resources to industry workers.
In these unprecedented times in which so many people locally and nationally are affected, HSHG rose to the call of duty. With Ellen Yin at the helm, High Street Hospitality has always been dedicated to making a difference in the local community by way of nutritious foods and unwavering hospitality.
Yin fosters a creative and welcoming environment in her restaurants. She has an unmatched passion for the hospitality industry and strives to improve the communities she serves through initiatives surrounding social justice, mental health, and food security. She recently partnered with Bakers Against Racism to raise money for social justice causes.
Inspiring Excellence: Honoring the Resiliency of Small to Mid-Size Businesses
Check out the program book from the November 19 celebration to read not just the stories of our 10 honorees, but also those of the over 70 organizations who were nominated.
