Lisa McOmber
2021 Community Building Award Recipient
Having moved to eastern Whatcom County 3 years ago, when Lisa heard of opportunities to build community through connection and provide sustainable healthy change, she was all in.
The Foothills Community Alliance (FCA) formerly known as the Mount Baker Foundation Partnership, was seeking strong, new leadership. She filled the shoes passionately and brought the group together with clear direction and renewed energy. Her involvement solidified the work, brought several community-building champions to the table, and resulted in the FCA becoming ready to serve needs of local community. She has remained consistent, noticed assets and gaps in other community efforts and stepped in to recruit, lead and facilitate for everyone’s good. She has been instrumental in laying foundation for positive community change for generations.
Lisa also leaned in to help the local neighborhood safety and block watch type group reimagine themselves as an effort that could balance hope with very real concerns. The group centers its efforts by elevating community strengths and finding collaborative solutions. Lisa has brought together folks of diverse viewpoints to make progress on community goals aligned with social determinants of health including increased safety, garbage removal, and beautification.
During the past year and a half of pandemic, she, along with others, kept this work rolling forward collaborating with many community organizations and neighbors. These were no small tasks during uncertain times.
Lisa’s kind hand at the tiller of community efforts has made all the difference. Thank you, Lisa!
To watch the 24th Annual Ken Gass Community Building Awards in which Lisa is recognized, click here.
