Amanda Workman Scott: How did you first hear about the West Virginia Community Development Hub?
Sherri James: My first experience with the West Virginia Community Development Hub was through my participation with the Monticello Blueprint Communities™. Working with The Hub through that program offered me valuable experience, training, and leadership development.
AWS: What interested you in the position of Community Coaching Associate with The Hub?
SJ: After becoming involved with The Hub through my work in the Monticello area of Clarksburg, WV, I quickly learned of all of the wonderful work they have been doing all over the state of West Virginia. Being a part of such an impactful community development organization that is building capacity and sustainability for our state is right up my alley.
AWS: What did you experience in working with The Hub as part of the Monticello team?
SJ: Working with The Hub as part of the Monticello team, I received coaching in leadership development, community engagement, grant writing technical assistance, and much more. The tools and technical assistance that was provided have equipped me to go out into my community and be a confident leader. I learned how to engage others to work with me to resolve issues and make impactful and effective changes and I am excited to help The Hub share that knowledge with more communities.
AWS: What has been your experience with community development and why do you think it is so important in West Virginia?
SJ: My experience with community development started in my neighborhood. One of the first projects I was a part of was a community clean-up project. Since then, I have been working to develop programs at the Kelly Miller Community Center, some of the programs that have been developed, which are free and open to all, include a food pantry, adult and youth fitness center, computer learning center, library, family walk club, and STEAM Club. Some of the future programs are the completion of the community kitchen and gymnasium.
AWS: What would you tell people about working alongside The Hub to grow their capacity and move forward with community projects?
SJ: I would tell people if they are serious about growing capacity and moving their community projects forward that The Hub has developed a blueprint for success! While working alongside The Hub, you will gain leadership development skills, receive technical support, partnership development, strategic planning assistance, project mapping, and much more. My community and myself have been forever changed for the better!
AWS: What draws you to community development work?
SJ: Living in a community that is thriving, safe, and beautiful for my family and neighbors has always been something I strive for, but it cannot be done alone. Working with communities to work toward that shared goal has become my passion.
AWS: What are you looking forward to most in this position?
SJ: I look forward to expanding my community development work throughout the state of West Virginia.
Sherri James is one of The Hub’s Community Coaching Associates. You can reach her at s.james@wvhub.org.