NeighborWorks ® Community Leadership Institute (CLI): Ignite launched this month with groups of residents gathering to connect and learn. A virtual adaptation of the traditional CLI, which brings together resident leaders for a weekend of training and inspiration, this year’s event is designed to meet people where they live. 

Lee Anne Adams has more than 20 years of experience working with affordable housing and community development organizations, both in the U.S. and Latin America. She's spent more than half of her career at NeighborWorks® America and in July, became the national nonprofit's executive vice president and chief operating officer. We sat down with her to talk about the insights she's gained from her new role.

You’ve been Chief Operating Officer at NeighborWorks® America for about nine months. What have you learned about NeighborWorks and yourself? 

Summary: Home means many different things to many different people. For Arica Gonzalez, it meant a refuge for her family and her neighbors – and it started with cleaning up one alley. Learn more about this resident leader and why NeighborWorks America will honor her with the Dorothy Richardson Award for Resident Leadership.