Erin Meisner will assume the new role of community development manager at the Economic Development Corp. Michigan City.
Meisner will focus on the social side of economic development. The position is a partnership between the EDCMC and the city of Michigan City. It builds a collaborative approach to socio-economic opportunities.
“As we look to drill down our impact on our community and neighborhoods, we needed a servant leader in the role to best guide the processes,” said Clarence Hulse, EDCMC executive director, in a press release. “Erin has a nonprofit background and powerful commitment to spark positive change for our community members.”
The role puts Meisner in the lead of the Michigan City Neighborhood Leadership Academy. The program invites neighborhood leaders to discuss and analyze issues in their own neighborhoods while building leadership skills. Meisner will also be working with entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Meisner will help cultivate the Vibrant Michigan City initiative. The initiative focuses on the built environment, economic, civic and social development to create a more economically inclusive community.
“Economic development and community development have to go hand-in-hand,” Meisner said. “You have to focus on the needs of the people here in our community and connect them with the right resources and individuals to help them live happy, vibrant, safe and healthy lives.”
Meisner previously worked with the United Way of Northwest Indiana and helped launch the organization’s Level Up Program. The initiative works to guide participants toward a more stable financial future.
“I enjoyed being out in the community and learning about their lives and their stories of struggle and how our program could help them reach new heights,” Meisner said. “I want to make those personal connections and empower our community members for real and significant changes.”
