Howard Brodsky Named Citizen of the Year by Greater Manchester Chamber
T
he Greater Manchester Chamber is pleased to announce that in a well-deserved recognition of a lifetime devoted to community service and business leadership, Howard Brodsky, Co-Founder and Chairman of CCA Global Partners, has been selected as its next Citizen of the Year. Brodsky will be honored on Thursday, April 4th, at the Chamber’s Citizen of the Year Celebration, taking place at 5 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown. This annual event, presented by Elliot Health System, is an opportunity for Chamber members, community members, friends, family, and colleagues of Brodsky to celebrate his accomplishments and dedication to the city of Manchester.
Background & Global Impact
Howard Brodsky’s journey embodies a unique blend of heart, ingenuity, and dedication to addressing complex societal challenges. His unwavering commitment to improving lives and building a better world is evident in every facet of his career, both as a successful businessman and a compassionate community leader.
Brodsky’s roots in Manchester are profound, having attended Ash Street Grammar School and Central High School. His father’s dream of owning a local business materialized in the form of “Dean’s Carpet,” a small, family carpet store on Elm Street. Tragedy struck at a young age when Brodsky lost his father to cancer, a pivotal moment that fueled his lifelong dedication to small businesses and community betterment. Taking over the family flooring store after college, Brodsky co-founded the Carpet Cooperative of America, now known as CCA Global Partners, in 1984.
As the force behind CCA Global, now a $14 billion company, Brodsky has not only shaped one of the largest companies in New Hampshire but has also elevated the city’s profile on a global scale. The impact of CCA Global, the second largest privately held company in New Hampshire and the 14th largest cooperative globally, extends beyond retail, reaching into diverse sectors such as childcare, sporting goods, lighting and more. Notably, the childcare business under CCA Global serves over 35,000 children in New Hampshire and close to 2 million nationwide.
Community Driven Mentor
Beyond his corporate success, Brodsky’s leadership extends into the heart of the community. He founded the New Hampshire Better Business Bureau (BBB) in 1998, championing ethical business practices. He also helped create the BBB NH Scholarship fund, which has been giving out five scholarships to New Hampshire students each year for over 20 years. Howard and his son, Jeff, worked with the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications to create the Brodsky Prize at Central High School, a $5,000 scholarship annually awarded to a star New Hampshire high school student pursuing a career in journalism.
His warm but powerful presence is felt in various capacities – from serving on local boards and facilitating the merger of the Elliot Hospital and Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, to his active involvement in Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire (BBBSNH) and his impactful contributions to the local arts scene. What sets Brodsky apart is not just his financial contributions but his hands-on involvement in community work. From being a Big Brother to two “littles” in the BBBSNH program to actively participating in fundraising efforts, Brodsky embodies the spirit of compassionate leadership.
Brodsky’s recent venture, the nonprofit Open Arts United, exemplifies his commitment to equity and inclusion. The organization aims to bring the arts to underrepresented communities and underprivileged youth, fostering shared experiences and a sense of belonging. Collaborating with the Boys and Girls Club of Manchester and the YMCA, Open Arts United hosted its inaugural events at the end of November and the beginning of December.
Howard Brodsky’s philanthropic endeavors extend to Pine Haven, a residential facility for boys with behavioral, educational, or emotional difficulties. He had established a Social Entrepreneurship Student Leadership program, contributing to the development of young leaders dedicated to community improvement.
Force for Good.
As an author, speaker, and justice of the peace, Brodsky is a multifaceted force for good. His enduring connection to Manchester is evident in his residence in his hometown and his continuous support for local causes. Howard Brodsky’s impact goes beyond business success; it is deeply rooted in the relationships he has cultivated, the lives he has touched, and the genuine love he holds for the city and its people.
Join the Celebration
Since 1954, the Greater Manchester Chamber has presented one outstanding individual the Citizen of the Year Award. This exceptional group of community leaders has been paramount in shaping the GMC’s agenda and the community. The Citizen of the Year award recognizes an individual with significant leadership and citizenship in the community, while demonstrating exemplary vision, civic pride, and commitment to the betterment of society. To be nominated, the individual should live in the greater Manchester area and his or her activities should be centered in the same area. Recognition is given for leadership and performance in several areas of community service over a period of years.
Howard Brodsky will be recognized as the Citizen of the Year at the Greater Manchester Chamber’s Citizen of the Year Celebration, presented by Elliot Health System, on Thursday, April 4, 2023, at 5 p.m. For more information, please visit www.manchester-chamber.org/citizen-of-the-year-celebration. Sponsorship of this event makes it possible for the Manchester community to celebrate Brodsky, spread his message of integrity and service, and will support the Chamber’s mission to strengthen our business community. For more information about sponsorships and table sales, email laurenclark@manchester-chamber.org.
