Charlotte John-Gomez pictured with Gordy Anderson, Vice Chair of LBWN

The School Sisters of St. Francis congratulate Charlotte John-Gomez who is celebrating ten years of dedicated leadership of Layton Boulevard West Neighbors, Inc. (LBWN).  LBWN offices are located in Sacred Heart Center, adjacent to St. Joseph Center (SSSF motherhouse) in Milwaukee. In 1999, Charlotte was the only full-time staff member, along with one part-time office manager.  Today, LBWN has a staff of 4 full-time and 3 part-time employees. 

Prior to taking on the position of Executive Director, Charlotte served as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic – an experience that made her realize her passion for community development.  When Charlotte returned to Milwaukee, she worked with the City of Milwaukee’s Common Council. When the LBWN position was advertised, she saw it as a good opportunity to get back into community development and make a sustainable contribution to Milwaukee.

“I had always felt at home in this neighborhood since I had friends who lived here and I visited the shops and restaurants often. LBWN was four years old when I joined the team and it was a good time to build on its past successes,” Charlotte said.  She knew the School Sisters of St. Francis founded LBWN and their values drew her to the organization. “The neighborhood was ready for the next stage of development and I was excited to be a part of it,” she stated.

Charlotte’s favorite part of working with LBWN is working with the different people who come from a wide array of ethnic backgrounds and traditions.  “I meet inspiring people everyday and I have a wealth of opportunities to learn more about this field, community, and myself.  When I see changes, small and big, that are sustainable over time, those are the successes that inspire me to do more and stretch my mind to explore new ways of responding to today’s challenges,” she said.

As LBWN nears its 15th birthday, it is Charlotte’s hope that they will continue to gain new partners in their endeavors.  “We’ve been fortunate to have such wonderful founding sponsors as the School Sisters and many other partners who have contributed to make this a healthy neighborhood,” she stated.  “My hope is that this continues and that people are inspired to continue volunteering and contributing to ensure the families and children here have a healthy neighborhood to live in, play, and raise their families.”

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