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

REBECCA AXFORD, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD

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

I believe that all members of a community have the desire to do something that improves the quality of life for the group. However, sometimes it can be difficult to know what to do to help, or it can be challenging to really see progress through individual efforts. Engaging on a board, committee, or commission gives us the direction to make our efforts count. Together we can have a greater impact and serve with talented individuals who carry the same desire for positively changing our community.

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

It is an honor to be on the Durham Workforce Development Board. I believe in equitable opportunity for all; we all deserve a good life and economic development. Our board works to improve economic opportunity for people with employment barriers, and in particular I have been so proud of the work being done with our youth, to provide them with training and internships. I commend the staff and our service providers for the excellent work they do!

What is your favorite part about living in Durham?

I urge anyone reading this to look at the City of Durham vision/mission statements and council goals: I imagine every city creates something like this, but I believe Durham lives it. The people of Durham and the people appointed to represent them care about each other and want to improve the quality of life for everyone. It doesn’t get better than that!