Executive Board Members

  • Al Poulisse - President

    Ties to the Westside: Life long Westside resident, veteran and homeowner.

    Occupation: Retired flooring contractor

    “I got involved with WGNO because I love to see a clean safe living environment for our community.”

  • Lucas Leverett - Vice President

    Ties to the Westside: We relocated to GR and lucked out by snagging our favorite rental home option right here on the West Side. As we both work from home and I base my freelance practice there as well, the West Side is our work and play community, 24/7. The rich history, working-class roots, and scrappy nature of our neighborhood resonate with my background, values, and outlook.

    Occupation: Marketing, Branding, Design, and Events professional

    “Not the type to merely raise tough questions or complain about problems, I bring up solutions and push new thoughts to the front of the line. Participating in WGNO is key factor in putting actions to the rhetoric of civic discussions. I often joke that I was “born with the give-back gene” and to truly be part of a community, I feel it is important to be involved in stepping up and “doing.” After all, a neighborhood is made by the people in it, the choices they make, and work they do. In an age where we’ve lost a lot of our sense of community in America, this organization is place to preserve and foster it - and do so for all of us.”

  • Meredith Lawson - Treasurer

    Ties to the Westside: Resident and Homeowner

    Occupation: Higher Ed Admin

    “To be involved and make an impact in my neighborhood.”

  • Kennedy Fitzgerald - Secretary

    Ties to the Westside: Resident and business owner on the Westside

    Occupation: Owner of Trinity Chiropractic 

    “As a small business owner in the West Grand neighborhood, I resonate with the mission and vision of the WGNO and strive to be a strong advocate for the West Grand community.”

Board Members

  • Noel Allen

    Ties to the Westside: I am part of the West Grand walking club and activities. I frequent the westside and I’m quite familiar with the neighborhood.

    Occupation: Retired, Writer

    “I got involved with West Grand because I believe I have a contribution to make in terms of helping to keep the neighborhood clean and welcoming. I also think I have skills that will benefit West Grand in particular and especially their mission to make the westside the best it can be. I’m also a true believer in helping people, especially those in need and most importantly I want to stay active.”

  • AliciaMarie Belchak

    Ties to the Westside: Resident homeowner & duplex landlord from nearby JBAN/SWAN area since 2002

    Occupation: Certified life & leadership coach; speaker, trainer & facilitator; strategic communications, journalist & freelance writer

    “As a long-time Westsider, I am excited to lend my voice and expertise to WGNO – both as a nearby neighbor and as a professional. My father-in-law grew up on Bristol Ave. and the Westside is where I’m raising his grandkids, so I’m truly invested in seeing this community thrive well into the future!”

  • Don Walker

    Ties to the Westside: Resident & homeowner

    Occupation: Retired

  • Seth Moore

    Ties to the Westside: Resident, homeowner since 2014.

    Occupation: Information Technology

    “My name is Seth Moore, and I am a dedicated community advocate with a strong focus on supporting Grand Rapids Public Schools. Born and raised in Grand Rapids, I am a proud father of three who is deeply committed to giving back to our community. My passion for advocacy is matched by my love for kayaking, video games, and standing up for what is right. I look forward to continuing my efforts to make a positive impact in Grand Rapids.”

  • Allyson Warners

    Coming Soon!

  • Yeli Romero

    Ties to the Westside: Yeli Romero is a dynamic community leader and entrepreneur with deep roots in West Michigan. As a bilingual radio personality, alopecia advocate, and mother of two, Yeli is passionate about fostering unity, empowerment, and positive change within her community. Her leadership is multifaceted, spanning across various roles such as the CEO of Acceso VIP, where she cultivates partnerships with diverse businesses, and Yeli’s Fitness, where she promotes health and wellness through tailored fitness programs, particularly within the Hispanic community.

    Yeli is also the host of WKTV’s “Soundbites en Español,” where she brings new guests to share opportunities for the Latino community and highlights events happening across West Michigan. Her mission is to give back to the community by amplifying voices, sharing valuable resources, and fostering connections that benefit the Latino community.

    Whether serving as an emcee for prominent events, hosting community-focused shows on WKTV, or working behind the scenes to support local businesses, Yeli Romero is a powerful force for good, inspiring others to come together and create meaningful change.

    Occupation: Bilingual radio persona

  • Latashia Bennett

    Ties to the Westside: Resident homeowner for over 20 years. Small business owner.

    Occupation: Child Care

    “I wanted to become involved to help keep my neighborhood safe and be involved in the community. To help with events and volunteer.”