April 2020 — ONE Neighborhood Builders is proud to announce the addition of three new members to its board of directors. The Providence-based community development organization builds affordable housing and addresses issues of health equity throughout the state. The organization relies on its board to guide these efforts and ensure community voices are represented.
New director Raysa Marte is a Silver Lake resident and former board member of Olneyville Housing Corporation, ONE|NB’s predecessor. She is a health data analyst at Lifespan and has lived in the Central Providence area for over twenty years. Raysa is dedicated to working with and for others in her community. She spends her time as an engaged member of the Active Latinos at Lifespan, an employee resource group, and the AAPC-RI Local Chapter, as their formal treasurer. Ms. Marte also serves proudly with the New England Regional Hemophilia Association, as its insurance and reimbursements co-chair.
Vivian Argueta is a graduate of ONE Neighborhood Builders’ Resident Leadership Academy. This leadership program provides participants with a working knowledge of city government and the essential skill sets necessary to become effective neighborhood advocates and community leaders. The Olneyville resident describes her greatest takeaway: “I learned how to use my voice to enact change for myself and my neighborhood.” This opportunity opened the door for Vivian to join the ONE|NB board and make an impact in her community. Vivian is a wonderful example of the type of resident leaders ONE|NB strives to engage and support: we work to create opportunities for residents to use their voices to influence decisions that will improve their lives and the lives of those around them.
Kevin Essington a nonprofit professional with over 15 years of experience in conservation and social change. Kevin was a long-time leader for the Trust for Public Land in Boston. He has just been appointed executive director of the Roger Williams Parks Conservancy. Kevin is a Providence resident and is committed to serving his community.
A key to ONE Neighborhood Builders’ success is guidance from individuals who are passionate about building sustainable, thriving neighborhoods. With a strong and diverse board to lead the way, the organization has taken on innovative new projects such as the development of energy-efficient affordable homes, affordable and mixed-income developments in East Providence, and the creation of mixed-use properties that provide housing and new economic opportunities to the neighborhood.
