Ann-Claire Anderson’s extensive experience in nonprofit leadership brings a dynamic and thoughtful voice to NeighborWorks Waco’s mission. With a professional career rooted in strategic planning, instructional design, and national grant work, Ann-Claire is passionate about helping organizations and individuals thrive through meaningful, long-term support.
Ann-Claire has been with the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) since the 1990s, where she has managed millions of dollars in federal and national grants. As a principal investigator, she oversaw the design, budgeting, and implementation of large-scale projects, an experience she credits with shaping her leadership style. Much of her work has centered on career and technical education, with a focus on strengthening community college programs and creating connections between faculty, employers, and workforce development leaders. Her most recent grant brought together these stakeholders to explore the future of work and the cross-cutting skills needed for success in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analysis.
Bringing that same strategic mindset to NeighborWorks Waco, Ann-Claire was immediately impressed with how well the organization functions. She understands firsthand the challenge of writing and managing grants and admires how NeighborWorks Waco not only secures critical funding, but also makes it look effortless. “They’re thoughtful about their funds, creative in their strategies, and incredibly well run,” she notes. “What they are doing is not easy, but they do it with purpose, unity, and care.”
What stood out most to Ann-Claire when she first began researching NeighborWorks Waco was the variety of services offered. “They really do encompass the whole person,” she explains. “From financial education to homeownership support and community engagement, these services are not a handout, they’re a hand up. If I needed to buy a home today, NeighborWorks Waco would be my first stop.”
As someone who once managed a grant through Waco ISD, she saw many families who would have benefitted from the kind of support NeighborWorks Waco provides.
Ann-Claire also praises the organization’s partnerships, both locally and nationally. “I appreciate that they are willing to collaborate across the country and across town. Whether it’s sharing resources with other nonprofits or offering space for services like AARP Tax-Aide, they are always thinking about what the community needs.”
Her goal as a board member is simple: to help NeighborWorks Waco serve more people. She is inspired by the organization’s strong leadership, its visible presence in the community, and its deep commitment to housing access and economic empowerment. “From community outreach events like the Pop Top Ice Cream Soda Shop to educational events, they are showing up in meaningful ways,” she says.
We are grateful for Ann-Claire Anderson’s service on our board. Her strategic insight, deep compassion, and belief in the power of partnerships are helping us grow stronger and reach farther as we work to create opportunity and stability for families across Waco.
