March 20, 2026
LakewoodAlive and its Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Jo Higgins as the organization’s new Executive Director. Higgins, who previously served as Operations Manager, steps into the role following a period of organizational transition and growth.
Higgins joined LakewoodAlive in March 2023 as the Small Business & Events Coordinator, where she managed logistics for the organization’s large-scale community events while building strong relationships with local business owners. Her leadership and dedication quickly led to a promotion to Operations Manager later that summer. In that role, she guided the organization through several significant milestones, including staff transitions, an office relocation, and assuming the role of Interim Executive Director.
The Executive Director position opened earlier this year, prompting a comprehensive search led by LakewoodAlive’s Board of Directors. A dedicated transition committee, composed of eight board members, conducted multiple rounds of interviews to identify the best candidate to lead the organization forward.
“I am so proud of the diligent work executed by the Transition Team, who considered the needs of the organization and found that Jo Higgins was absolutely the best fit to lead and ensure the future success of LakewoodAlive,” said Board President Julie Warren. Both LakewoodAlive’s Board and staff share a sense of optimism and excitement for the organization’s future.
As a community-centered nonprofit located in Lakewood, Ohio, LakewoodAlive works to foster and sustain vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods. The organization advances its mission through housing outreach programs that primarily serve low-to-moderate income residents, support for local small businesses, and free, large-scale community events open to residents across the greater Cleveland area and beyond.
Reflecting on her new role, Higgins emphasized a thoughtful and people-centered approach to leadership. “This next chapter for the organization is not about making sweeping changes, but about thoughtfully aligning and strengthening what’s already working,” said Higgins. “My leadership approach is deeply relationship-driven, grounded in listening, clear communication, and shared accountability, while fostering a team that feels empowered and well-supported.
As we continue to grow, it’s incredibly important that our internal processes and operations evolve alongside that growth. By streamlining systems, strengthening our communications, expanding sustainable funding partnerships, and ensuring our programs are clearly aligned with our mission and community impact, we are enhancing our existing foundation to support a sustainable future.
At the end of the day, this work is about people: our team and the community we serve. And it’s important to cultivate an organization that supports both with intention, clarity, and care. I am incredibly honored to be entrusted to lead this organization and for the opportunity to continue to give back to this community that I hold so very dear.”