LISC Indianapolis Welcomes Laura Dodds to the Local Advisory Board

LISC Indianapolis is proud to announce the appointment of Laura Dodds to its Local Advisory Board. With a deep commitment to equity, workforce development, and sustainability, Laura brings a wealth of experience and a passion for improving the quality of life in Indianapolis communities.

As a long-time advocate for community empowerment, Laura believes Indianapolis is at a pivotal moment for growth and transformation. She sees tremendous opportunities ahead, particularly in addressing key issues like housing affordability, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.

"Indianapolis has always been known for its affordable Midwestern living," she shares, "but the rise of corporate-owned and short-term rentals has destabilized some of our communities. By focusing on inclusive housing policies and supporting affordable housing projects, we can ensure that all residents have access to safe and affordable homes."

Laura also identifies workforce development as a critical area for growth, especially in industries like healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. "Expanding opportunities in these sectors can provide a pathway to economic stability for many families, ultimately enhancing the quality of life across our neighborhoods," she notes. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges such as food security, public health, and climate resilience to build a thriving, sustainable community for future generations.

Laura's values closely align with LISC’s mission of empowering communities and fostering inclusive growth. "Equity, inclusion, and sustainability have been central to my work," she says. "LISC’s focus on uplifting community voices and creating impactful partnerships resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to contributing my experience in workforce and youth development, health and wellness, and urban agriculture to our shared goals."

During her time on the board, Laura plans to focus on driving positive change through strategic partnerships and advocacy for key initiatives. "I aim to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the organization and the communities we serve. Whether it's through advancing education and workforce development or supporting climate resilience efforts, I’m committed to helping LISC and Indianapolis achieve a more equitable, sustainable future."

We are excited to welcome Laura Dodds to LISC Indianapolis and look forward to the contributions she will bring to our community-focused mission!