Meet Our Team

Meet Alicia Neal. She is a nonprofit trailblazer with deep roots in New Orleans and is a proud Houston resident. Alicia has a heart for the community, and it is evident in her varied experience of 25 years of leading high performing teams and holding leadership roles in notable nonprofits including Groundwork New Orleans, the Archdiocese of Savannah, and Camp Fire USA. 

Alicia’s expertise and knowledge come from working from the ground up in the nonprofit sector and serving in the capacities of Program Director, Fundraiser, Advocate, and Executive Director. Alicia offers an innovative perspective coupled with progressive action to any charitable cause that she is fortunate to be a part of. 

Her proven track record encompasses raising significant funds to support youth advocacy, sustainable community development, equitable economic development initiatives, and arts education. Alicia’s true gift is connecting people and resources with a shared vision that brings about positive transformation that uplifts communities and marginalized groups. 

This strategic thinker and doer presently utilize her diverse skill set as the Interim Executive Director at the Emancipation Economic Development Council (EEDC). Under Alicia’s leadership, the EEDC has grown the operating budget from $300,000 to over $500,000. Her tenacity and focus led to the EEDC’s successful launch of three key nationally connected programs, that serve the Third Ward Community. Alicia is a champion of equity in education, finance, housing, and the workforce. She is also a strong believer in the resilient nature of the Third Ward.  Alicia says, “I am fortunate to serve the Third Ward Community and be a part of the revitalization that is overdue and work alongside residents and business owners in embracing a shared vision that does not leave anyone behind but welcomes all to the table”.