My name is Sierra McNeil. I’m a social worker, dog mom and proud homeowner in Strawberry Mansion. I love my neighborhood, my neighbors and the work I do every day. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Temple University and started my career in behavioral health helping families in crisis navigate systems that were never built for them. That work taught me how decisions made in Harrisburg directly shape people’s access to care, stability and dignity. Those lessons shaped me as both a social worker and an advocate.

As Director of Workforce Development and Philadelphia Connections at FTAC, I’ve led efforts to strengthen Pennsylvania’s behavioral health workforce and build real career pathways. I’ve worked to make sure Black residents in clinical training are supported and stay here in Pennsylvania so communities of color have access to clinicians who reflect them and understand their experiences.

I’ve worked with state agencies, legislators and coalitions to create better systems for crisis response, mental health care and workforce retention. As President of the National Association of Social Workers–PA and now as a national board member, I helped influence the rewriting of state legislation and organized nearly 700 social workers to the Capitol to speak directly with lawmakers. Together we’ve pushed for stronger, more ethical and more equitable policies that meet people where they are.

My entire career has been about showing up for people. I’ve been there in moments of crisis, in times of transition, and in the everyday grind of helping families navigate systems that weren’t built to support them. I’ve advocated in classrooms, courtrooms, clinics, and community spaces not for glory, but because it’s what our people deserve.

I’m not a politician or someone disconnected from everyday realities. I’m someone who’s lived them fighting for change, helping families navigate broken systems, and showing up when it counts. We need bold, compassionate leadership that will fight for housing, mental health care, education, environmental and economic justice with the urgency these times demand. I’m ready to bring policy back to the people and that starts by knocking doors and listening first.

I know the systems that shape our lives can change. The State House may not be a flashy race, but it matters. It’s where decisions about housing, education, transportation, and workforce development are made.

I’m running for State Representative because our neighborhoods need more than performative politics. We need someone who understands what it’s like to juggle bills, care for loved ones, and fight to be heard. Someone who won’t just vote the right way but who knows how to build real solutions, door by door, block by block.

Our community has always had the answers. It’s time Harrisburg listens.