Executive Board Members
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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.”
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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.”
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Kim McCormick - Treasurer
Ties to the Westside: Resident and Homeowner
Occupation: Accountant
Kim brings strong organizational skills and a passion for service to the board. With experience in bookkeeping, grant writing, event planning, and fundraising, she has actively supported animal rescue efforts in the community. A dedicated animal advocate, Kim fosters senior and special-needs cats and dogs and cares for her own beloved pack at home.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, camping, thrift shopping, and watching films based on historical events.
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Secretary - Open Seat
Ties to the Westside:
Occupation:
Board Members
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Ed Jaros
Ties to the Westside: Ed has been a Westside resident for more than 25 years, raising his family and building lasting connections within the community. He is deeply committed to giving back and strengthening the neighborhood he has long called home.
Occupation: Founder and owner of a Grand Rapids–based technology company that has successfully served clients regionally and internationally since 2002. He holds an MBA from Western Michigan University and brings extensive experience in innovation, strategic growth, and organizational leadership.
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Don Walker
Ties to the Westside: Resident, veteran & homeowner for over 18 years.
Occupation: Retired
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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.”
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Yeli Romero
Ties to the Westside: Community Leader
Occupation: Bilingual radio persona
Yeli Romero is a community leader, entrepreneur, and bilingual radio personality with deep roots in West Michigan. As CEO of Acceso VIP and founder of Yeli’s Fitness, she builds business partnerships and promotes culturally informed health and wellness programs. Yeli also hosts Soundbites en Español on WKTV, highlighting opportunities and events for the Latino community. Passionate about unity and empowerment, she amplifies voices, shares resources, and fosters connections that benefit her neighbors.
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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.”
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Maurice Baker
Ties to the Westside: Resident
Occupation: Mortgage Specialist
Deeply committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and community development. His work reflects a strong belief in the power of collaboration and advocacy to create lasting, meaningful change. Through his leadership and service, he continues to make a positive impact across Michigan.
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DeAndre Jones
Ties to the Westside: Resident & Renter
Occupation:
Deandre is a community leader dedicated to advancing systemic change and expanding equitable opportunities for others. Born in Chicago and now based in Grand Rapids, he works to empower individuals and strengthen communities through advocacy and service. He is also the Founder and CEO of Jump Ahead L3C.
Deandre enjoys basketball, volunteering, reading, and inspiring others to become the best versions of themselves.
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Blake Chambliss
Ties to the Westside: Homeowner since 2024
Occupation: Software Developer
Blake is a lifelong learner and community-oriented resident of the West Grand Neighborhood. He brings a diverse background in education and technology and a passion for making meaningful contributions.
Blake enjoys volleyball, traveling, discovering local coffee spots, and staying active in his neighborhood. Outside his community involvement, he’s committed to personal growth and supporting others through his interests and activities.
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Kayla Schmitz
Ties to the Westside: Resident, Renter
Occupation: Development & Communications Director at the Grand Rapids Red Project
“I would love to give back to the community that has welcomed me from the beginning. I have only been in Grand Rapids for (officially) a year, but I couldn't be happier with where I have landed, specifically in my professional life, and where I physically call home on the West Side. I have great ambition to continue to learn more about my neighborhood and community, and to become more connected to my neighbors and collaborators.”
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Tatianna Spencer
Ties to the Westside: Homeowner, Westside resident for the last 9 years.
Occupation: Teacher
“I believe in the power of community engagement and civic action! I think serving on the WGNO Board would help me take direct action to better the Westside. As an educator, I think it is imperative to model civic responsibility and be sensitive to the needs of the community you live and work in. I will be a great board member because I listen, ask thoughtful questions, and care deeply about marginalized voices being heard and represented.”
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Emmitt Bronkema
Ties to the Westside: Owner of Eden Cafe on Bridge Street
Occupation: Business Owner
“I wanted to serve on the WGNO Board because I care deeply about building a connected, thriving West Side. As a local business owner, I see firsthand the importance of collaboration, accessible resources, and strong neighborhood leadership. I’m motivated to contribute my perspective, energy, and experience to support the long-term health and growth of the West Side community.”
About the WGNO Board
Our board members are residents and business owners of our neighborhood and are volunteering their time serving the community. If you would like to see our Board ByLaws, click the link below.
Board News
