The City Clerk's Office Presents the Monthly Board Member Spotlight:

Angela Holmes, Homeless Services Advisory Committee

Why would you encourage someone in the community to apply to be on a board, committee, or commission?

I would encourage anyone to be on a committee or board if they have the passion to help someone or better their community. I am an advocate for the homeless and for children. By serving on a board or committee I can help to make a difference in people’s lives. We can complain about things not happening but we have to actually do something about it and serving on a board or commission is one way to do it.

What do you enjoy most about serving on your particular board?

What I enjoy most about serving on other boards and committees is being able to make an impact in my community and connect with other people.

I am in my second term as the Homeless Representative for Durham County on the Homeless Services Advisory Committee (HSAC). I currently serve as the Acting Chair of the Structure Subcommittee and for several years served as Chair of the Performance Management Subcommittee.  In the past, I served as the Vice-Chair and Chair of HSAC.

I was once told that I didn't have any power because I was a homeless volunteer.  The people that have jobs had the power. However, I’ve been able to make an impact in this city and make a difference in people’s lives.  Whether that’s through buying food, refurbishing furniture, calling around to get someone housing when they’re experiencing homelessness or making decisions on the boards and committees I’ve served. The people of Durham have power and we shouldn’t be afraid to speak up and use it.

What is your favorite part about living in Durham?

My favorite part about living in Durham is that I've come home to my roots. I get to hear stories from the past and hear the love that everyone has for the city and that makes me love the city even more. I get to be a voice and an advocate for those that don't have a voice. All of our citizens are wonderful people, no matter the race, religion, sexual orientation, height, weight, or age.