In August 2023, I joined Woodlawn United as the Director of Development and Communications. It was an exciting opportunity to share the stories of transformation taking place in Woodlawn and to elevate the voices of our residents, partners, and leaders. Over time, I came to see just how deeply connected our work is to policy—local, state, and federal—and how policy decisions can either strengthen or stall the progress happening in communities like ours. This past January, I transitioned into a new role as Woodlawn United’s Director of Advocacy and Engagement. In this position, I focus more directly on policy and how it can support and empower the work happening on the ground in Woodlawn. Policy is not just abstract legislation; it’s the framework that shapes opportunities, access, and resources for families and neighborhoods. One of the most exciting parts of this new role has been building and fostering relationships with elected leaders. Whether at the city, state, or federal level, these relationships are critical. When leaders understand what is happening in Woodlawn—when they see the innovative, community-driven work firsthand—it opens doors for collaboration, investment, and lasting change. By creating these connections, I’m helping bring more awareness and opportunities to our community, ensuring that policy works for the people it’s meant to serve. Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of participating in conversations that bridge the gap between community needs and legislative action. I attended the Southern Legislative Conference and the Business Council of Alabama’s Legislative Conference, both of which provided opportunities to connect with policymakers and peers from across the region. These gatherings were a reminder of the importance of having a seat at the table—and of making sure Woodlawn’s story is part of the broader policy dialogue. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet directly with both state and U.S. representatives, sharing how they can engage more deeply in the transformational work happening in Woodlawn. These discussions are about more than policy; they’re about partnership, vision, and the collective responsibility to drive positive change. As I continue to grow into this role, I’m energized by the opportunity to serve as a bridge between Woodlawn and the policymakers who help shape its future. Together, we can ensure that policy not only reflects community priorities but also amplifies the work already underway to make Woodlawn a place where families thrive.

A Message from our Director of Advocacy and Engagement 

At Woodlawn United, we believe real change starts with presence — listening closely to residents and working together to shape policies that reflect real needs. That belief came to life as we hosted a delegation of lawmakers during this year’s Southern Legislative Conference (SLC), right here in the heart of Woodlawn.

The SLC brought together legislators from across the Southeast to share ideas, learn from one another, and explore the issues impacting the people and places we serve. As one of the selected host sites, Woodlawn United had the opportunity to spotlight the power of place-based work and community-rooted partnerships.

Our President & CEO, Mashonda S. Taylor, moderated a timely and impactful fireside chat on how public policy shapes neighborhoods and quality of life. The panel featured Rep. Leigh Hulsey, Rep. Neil Rafferty, Rep. Kelvin Datcher, and Sen. Robert Stewart — leaders focused on shaping policy through the lens of impact and inclusion.

Together, they explored how policy intersects with daily realities like housing, education, infrastructure, and economic opportunity. Whether in Birmingham or in rural communities across Alabama, the issues may look different — but the core challenges (and the opportunities) are often the same.

Proximity is power. When we’re close to the problems, we can co-create solutions that are effective, sustainable, and rooted in trust. The issues residents bring forward — affordable housing, quality schools, safe streets, reliable transit — aren’t theoretical. They’re real, and they deserve policy grounded in empathy and shared vision.

The Conference reminded us that deep listening matters. Not just to data, but to people. It also created space to build meaningful relationships with legislators who are committed to doing this work alongside communities. Good policy is a team effort. And when residents, elected leaders, and organizations like Woodlawn United move together, real transformation is possible.

We’re thankful to the Southern Legislative Conference for giving us the space to share our story — and even more energized by what’s ahead. When policy and proximity align, lasting change takes root.