The 1828 Project, sponsored by Citizens Energy Group, is a civic leadership tract for Indy’s young leaders with the goal of fostering intentional relationships with a cross sector of Indianapolis’ thought leaders and decision makers. Jeffery is a part of 1828’s Class IX– learn more about him below!
What is your day job?
I am a Neighborhood Advocate for the Office of Mayor Joe Hogsett. I spend my days solving the short term and long term quality of life issues facing my communities. Additionally I work with community leaders and stakeholders to plan out future projects and goals.
Where are you originally from?
Indianapolis!
You’re off the clock. What are your plans and/or your favorite things to do when not at work?
I created an after work supper club with some friends/colleagues that has been really engaging. I also really enjoy visiting different art spaces especially on First Fridays.
When thinking about the future of Indianapolis, what are you looking forward to the most and why?
Waterways! Especially the White River Vision Plan. Activating our local waterways is going to bring such a dynamic improvement to our city and I cannot wait for this project to be completed.
Are there any local causes that you support? What are they and how might others learn more or get involved?
Coburn Place. The people they are assisting are some of the most vulnerable, and they are always looking for volunteers. You can learn more about their mission at https://coburnplace.org/.
Do you have a favorite local spot (restaurant, bar, park, etc.) that you love going to? Where and why?
The Idle-A Point of View between Fletcher Place and Fountain Square has become my favorite spot in the city to sit and be silent. [Editor’s Note: Check out this recent feature of The Idle on CBS Sunday Morning!]
Which is your preferred way to get around our city?
With the addition of new protected bike lanes around the city I’m always down for a quick pedal. I also have been really enjoying the convenience of IndyGo’s new Red Line.
What’s something underrated about Indy that more people should know about?
Just the sheer number of things to do in the city. I hear way too often that there is nothing to do in Indy, and my strong rebuttal to this is “You are not looking hard enough!” From local community festivals to concerts, art fairs, listening parties, late night taco trucks! There is oh so much to do in the city you just need to get involved.
What’s a tv show that has impacted your life most to date?
Neon Genesis Evangelion. It’s this anime series from the early 90’s that I just recently watched. The subject matter they were able to cover was so ahead of its time. Also the artist styling is gorgeous.
If you had to remove all the apps from your phone except for 3, which would you keep?
Instagram. Twitter. Lyft.
Do you have a special talent?
Before stumbling into municipal government I was in Culinary School and I can cook very well.
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
‘Borderline (An Ode to Self Care)’ by Solange Knowles.
Pancakes or waffles?
Waffles.
