Volunteer: Julie Hartman is the Queen Creek Hometown Hero for November

A major factor in Julie Hartman’s decision to retire was her desire to do more for her community.

After 34 years working at J.P. Morgan, Hartman retired in 2023 and is now volunteering with the town of Queen Creek and the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce.

Hartman’s work focuses on the chamber of commerce and town initiative For Our Town, which brings together nonprofits, faith-based organizations, educators, businesses and government leaders to take on the critical issues that Queen Creek is facing, such as teen violence.

“Being involved in our village is becoming increasingly important as we grow and as our world changes,” Hartman said.

Name: Julie Hartman

Age: 57

Town/neighborhood: Queen Creek

When and why I moved here: My family has lived in Queen Creek since 2007. We landed in Queen Creek when we relocated back to Arizona after a brief time in Ohio for my work. Prior to that, we had been residents of the East Valley since 1992.

What I like most about living here: Queen Creek has a small community feel, this is very much like where I grew up. I love seeing people I know when I am out and about in the community. Queen Creek has all the small town feels with the amenities of a larger city.

What I do: I volunteer with the town of Queen Creek and the Chamber of Commerce. Part of my volunteer role is focused on For Our Town, which is a partnership with the town, local businesses, faith-based organizations and QCUSD. I also volunteer at Central Christian Church at our Queen Creek Campus.

Personal background highlights: My husband Allen and I have been married for 33 years; we have lived in the East Valley for all but two of those years when we moved for my work at JP Morgan. We are empty nesters, both our children are married so we are blessed with four adults that we call our family! We also have five grand dogs!

Professional background highlights: For 34 years I worked for JP Morgan Chase. I’ve held several roles at the company, mostly focused on people and process operations. My career provided so much opportunity to learn and lead in a variety of settings. Part of my decision to retire in 2023 was based on my desire to serve our community in a bigger way, using the years of experience to give back wherever and however possible. Having no work schedule has granted me the ability to use my gifts and talents to help our community achieve our goals.

What I like most about what I do: I am a lifelong learner. While I enjoy using my experience and skills to help, I also love to learn new things and share what I’ve learned with others. People is another think I like about volunteering! I meet so many people, getting to know them makes me a better person.

What does being nominated for this category mean to you? I am honored to be nominated as Hometown Hero, I hope that my story will inspire others to be involved in a deeper way in Queen Creek.

What would you tell people about why it's important to make a difference in Queen Creek? It takes a village is one of my favorite sayings. Being involved in our village is becoming increasingly important as we grow and as our world changes. As we get involved in our community and get to know our neighbors we become a village, where we watch out for one another, care for one another, and share with one another. It will not be perfect but we can erase the loneliness and isolation of our neighbors that will bring meaning and purpose to everyone.

I'd like to see in this area: More volunteers! We have so many opportunities to get involved and serve in our community! Partnering with the town of QC is just one way to help our community grow and thrive.

Favorite community cause & why: For Our Town — this initiative embodies community. It brings together local nonprofits, local churches, local businesses and the school district to collaborate on concerns and issues that are specific to our community.

My family: Married to Allen, we have two fur babies at home, Falcon 5-year-old cattle dog and Maverick, 11-week-old Belgian/heeler mix. Brad (son), married to Zosia. Shelby (daughter), married to Cameron.

My interests and hobbies: I am an avid hiker and am on the local trails as often as possible! I also enjoy paddle boarding the Salt River and Canyon Lake. My family and I enjoy old muscle cars, we enjoy taking our rides out to local car shows in the community. We hope to see you at a Cars and Coffee!

My advice to today’s youth: Get involved in your community and your local church. Every person has something to offer others, this could be something small like a smile and greeting to serving them in some way. Grow where you are planted and see how you will flourish!

The Queen Creek Independent is pleased to announce Julie Hartman as the November 2025 Hometown Hero bestowed in the category of Volunteer.  The Queen Creek Independent along with East Valley Institute of Technology and the Queen Creek Olive Mill salute Mr. Posner as this month's Queen Creek Hometown Heroes Awards recipient.