Meet Annie Evans | Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Annie Evans and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Annie, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing about my industry that outsiders are probably unaware of is that nonprofits do need to make a profit just like a for profit business does. The catch all is that the profit that is made by the nonprofit goes back into satisfying the mission and expanding its footprint to do even more of the good work. Doors have to stay open, staff has to be paid, lights must stay on in order for a nonprofit to do its work. So therefore money is needed for any business to continue to function.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

My route to becoming an Executive Director of SouthFair Community Development Corporation wasn’t a straight shot. It actually wasn’t even on my radar. The long time board member and at the time interim Executive Director, Theodore Lawe posed the opportunity to me. I was just there to provide some support and ease back into the work world after taking some time off to care for my girls. Instead I was uplifted and qualities that I possessed that were now being highlighted – leadership, perseverance and efficiency.

SouthFair is a nonprofit housing development organization that focuses on providing affordable housing to the South Dallas community. SouthFair has invested a little over $35 million in the South Dallas community since its inception in October 1991. This can be seen in completed developments in single family, multifamily and commercial development. We also act as a social connector for the community by providing free homebuyer counseling services, financial literacy workshops virtual and in person, along with hosting other community events.

My position has really provided me with a supportive balance of emboldenment, autonomy, immeasurable experience and knowledge that I am over joyed to have. My introverted and reserved personality has been thoroughly challenged in my role as Executive Director. At times it has been challenging as I prefer not to be the center of attention. On the other hand it allows me to use some of my best qualities – listening, discerning and analyzing which has been key to my success.

No it is not easy but it is emotionally rewarding!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
It would probably be a mixture of the DFW entertainment life. We would visit the entertainment district in Arlington where you have sports, theme parks and countless restaurants. I would definitely take them to visit Deep Ellum to experience some live music. Then show them where the newest go to place will be, Malcolm’s Point in South Dallas. My organization is working on retail and townhome development at Malcolm X and Al Lipscomb Way. It will be a meeting place of where live, work and play rings loudest. It’s going to be the next go to spot in DFW!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

Shoutout to my Spice Girls! My daughters Saige, Jinger and Jasmyne ooze awesomeness and keep me motivated to do what I do. I also want to ensure that the steps I take, whether it be a great success or learnable mistake, provide a transparent lesson for my girls and that they in return do the same when they become adults, mothers and responsible citizens.

Shoutout to Mr. Theodore Lawe, who has since passed, gave me the opportunity and mentorship in my position as an Executive Director. To Ms. Marian Williams our current Board Chair who is extremely supportive, understanding and uplifting. Also to our small staff Mary Ann, Dale and Grace. They wear multiple hats and get it done with no complaints!

Website: www.southfaircdc.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southfaircdc/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-evans-95856515

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SouthFairCDC

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/SouthFair-Community-Development-Corporation/214332835283282

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SouthfairCDC