Community Development Specialist
St. Louis, Missouri
Responsible for creating and implementing adult education curriculum and programs, collaborating with community-based organizations, and serving in a leadership role at the local and regional level. Co-founded an applied research center at University of Missouri-St. Louis (Creating Whole Communities). Organized and facilitated forums reaching over 600 people annually. Directed/facilitated the Neighborhood Leadership Academy – St. Louis’ premiere leadership development program for residents, volunteers, nonprofit and government staff, and community leaders. Maintained active alumni program for over 230 people. Specialized in community development facilitation and trainings in leadership practices and styles, facilitation, strategic planning, needs assessment, mind mapping, and grant writing. Co-chaired City of St. Louis Department of Health Food Access/Food Security Team – a coalition of over 30 community-based organizations. Strategically recruited and engaged new members, pursued pilot programs, sought funding and sustained the network over time. Built partnerships and maintained coalitions with nonprofits, community-based organizations, universities, foundations, stakeholders, elected officials, city and state-level agencies, and leaders. Partnerships resulted in over $560,000 in grants and contracts for community health related initiatives.