Michael Edwards
What is my superpower, and how does it help you serve the community? I have a knack for distilling complex concepts, like those in the law, into layman’s terms. This allows me to assist folks to make the law work for them and teach our youth.
What inspired you to get involved with this organization, and what keeps you motivated? LEDA’s dedication to developing the Linden community inspired me to join. Bringing small business back to the area and creating an inviting atmosphere that is comparable to other up-and-coming communities is something that continues to bring me to the table.
If you had to explain your professional background without using job titles, what would you say you do? I defend low-income tenants in evictions, help save section 8 vouchers, and help tenants get justice when landlords violate their duties under state and federal law. I also have the honor of advising small businesses and nonprofits that serve poor communities in the areas of tax, accounting, corporate and business law.
What’s one challenge in our community you care deeply about, and how do you hope your role on the board helps address it? I care deeply about the affordable housing situation here in Columbus. It is entirely too expensive to be able to live in this city, and it is only going to get worse as we continue to grow into a major urban region. My prayer is that my work with LEDA will lead to tangible opportunities for low-income individuals and families to secure affordable housing, and that the work will lead to affecting change within the city power structure that will lead to city-wide affordable housing policy.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you that influences how you show up as a board member? My family was a bunch of performers- my mother was a singer, a musician and actress. My grandfather served in the U.S. Army and performed on saxophone. So, it was my destiny to follow in their footsteps. I was a jazz performer for 15 years, on saxophone, flute and piano. I’ve performed in Carnegie Hall, the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, and many small smokey clubs and bars in the Northeast U.S. How does this affect how I show up? It makes me unafraid of being front and center, meeting new people, and presenting LEDA and what we do to the community. What can I say? I’m a big ham. 😊