Across the country, IEDC's ERC Fellows are making a lasting impact in their communities, from leading wildfire response efforts in Colorado to securing millions for affordable housing in Alabama. Check out how ERC Fellows Sasha Nelson and Justin Washington are driving local leadership and collaboration in communities across the country.

Sasha Nelson Helps to Coordinate a Multi-County Wildfire Response in Northwest Colorado

Working with ERC Host Routt County Economic Development Partnership across three coal transition communities in Northwest Colorado, ERC Fellow Sasha Nelson acted to keep people connected during a rapid wildfire response when historic fires threatened the region in September 2025. As the scale of the disaster became apparent, Nelson joined with over 30 community organizations, part of the United Way of the Yampa Valley’s Human Resource Council, to create a coordinated support network. Within one hour, the group designated the United Way as the lead coordinator with emergency response and area governments. Their team also gathered volunteer interest and was in charge of assistance intake. Yampa Valley Community Foundation led fundraising efforts. All other non-profits and agencies identified their roles and activated. In her role as a regional economic developer Sasha led outreach to Chambers of Commerce, elected officials, and media while using social media channels to distribute critical, official information to residents. 

The fires impacted all three counties, with Rio Blanco County experiencing Colorado's fifth-largest fire in state history. Recognizing gaps in disaster preparedness, Sasha connected newly elected officials with ERC Partner, National Association of Counties to access resources and expertise. Her coordination efforts have sparked regional interest in developing a comprehensive disaster mitigation, response, and recovery plan to address future emergencies across the multi-county area. 

Justin Washington Secures $25 Million For Affordable Housing in Birmingham

In partnership with ERC Host, Miles College Community Development Corporation and local affordable housing partners, ERC Fellow Justin Washington provided critical support to Renew Birmingham Housing, a nonprofit working to expand homeownership access in West Birmingham. When a private donor expressed interest in supporting the organization but required demonstrated capacity before committing funds, Justin led the organization through a comprehensive readiness process, including board coordination, housing strategy development, and governance structure. His efforts resulted in Renew Birmingham Housing securing a $25 million commitment for affordable housing development. The funding, which will be distributed in tranches based on development milestones, is expected to create 25 new homes for low-income families in the Birmingham area. 

Explore more stories of community impact by visiting the Economic Recovery Corps website.