Staff

Matthew Ides, Executive Director

Matthew has 10 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector and a Masters degree in Urban Planning from Hunter College at the City University of New York. Before coming to Sparc he worked in community and economic development, community planning, affordable housing, and urban policy in Chicago and New York City. At Sparc Matthew is responsible for multi-family housing and commercial development, fundraising, staffing the executive and nominating committees, and building community relationships.

Allison Sharkey, Associate Director

Allison coordinates Sparc’s small business services program, helping entrepreneurs open, manage, and expand their businesses. She leads a committee of community members that has awarded $850,000 in small business loans and grants since 2007, which provided incentive for over $8 million in investment in our commercial corridors. Recently completed projects include the transformation of a vacant eyesore on Rice Street to a quality early childhood education center providing 20 jobs, and the renovation of a vacant warehouse on Maryland Avenue into the home of two family-owned specialty construction businesses. Allison holds a B.A. from Carleton College, is certified as an Economic Development Finance Professional, and speaks Spanish.

Frank Sprandel, Construction & Project Manager

With more than 17 years of industry experience, Frank provides construction management support for our home improvement loans and monitors progress on development projects. He provides home inspections, energy audits, and general contracting services to our home owners and small businesses.

Cindy Fowler, Financial Manager

Cindy has been at Sparc for 20 years; beginning as Administrative Assistant, moving on to Office Manager, and into her current role as Financial Manager. She handles the accounting functions, including preparing financial statements, accounts payable and receivable, and payroll as well. She also performs administrative and general office managerial tasks.