We are thrilled to introduce the 2023 Erwin Ramsey Fellow, Jo Blount! Jo was raised in Charlottesville and has been involved in organizing efforts focusing on tenants’ associations, anti-gentrification, and community-led redevelopment in different regions. Currently, Jo is a part-time staff member at the Public Housing Association of Residents (PHAR) while pursuing her Master’s degree at UVA.
The 2023 Fellowship will address a critical aspect of Charlottesville’s development: our city’s commitment to racial equity and affordable housing goals through the Comprehensive Plan update and Rezoning process. Jo will be developing targeted resources to enhance and bolster the community engagement infrastructure established through the Cville Plans Together (CPT) Initiative.
What impressed us about Jo’s proposal is how firmly it’s rooted in existing community movements and resources. Like our resident-led design processes in Southwood and South First Street, Jo places community members at the forefront of her project, directly addressing the needs they have expressed.