HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
10 years. I grew up in Kenner.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
A few years ago, I became concerned about the level of crime we were seeing in our area. I began attending neighborhood association meetings in an effort to see how I could help address this problem.
The president at the time, Lou Volz, was gracious enough to welcome me in and show me the ropes. From there, I became inspired and energized about the change I could enact as a volunteer, not just with crime, but all levels of civic engagement.
WHAT DO YOU LOvE ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
The people! The LGD has such a diverse group of people that embrace NOLA living. I also love the walkability. Our neihgborhood has the best restaurants, bars and shops, as well as countless beautiful historic buildings. It never gets old.
WHAT SUCCESSES HAVE YOU HAD IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
I'm proud to say that I've recently been a part of two major volunteer-driven initiatives that have improved the quality of life in the LGD. In 2016, our association raised nearly $100,000 to restore and maintain Lafon Fountain in Coliseum Square Park. In 2017, I also lead an initiative that raised nearly $20,000 and saw our association partner with Project NOLA. That partnership lead to the installation of 30 live-monitored security cameras in the LGD.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW IN YOUR Neighborhood?
Over the past two years, I've helped our association organize its membership database by implementing a CRM that automates membership correspondence and tracks payments. Gone are the days of manually updating a spreadsheet!
We are also constantly involved in representing the neighborhood at the city level in land use cases.
ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD LEADERS AND CHANGE MAKERS?
Two things. New Orleans is a unique city with unique challenges. It takes an 'all hands on deck' mentality to enact the change we want to see. We can't wait for someone else to do it.
Secondly, when it comes to leading a group of volunteers, I feel it is important to foster and maintain a positive atmosphere. Encourage and support. Connect the dots, make introductions, and welcome those who wish to get involved. Make it a positive experience for those looking to help be part of the community.