Jackson Needs You: Inside the Committees Shaping the City’s Future

In Jackson, community work does not begin with a title; it begins with a simple decision to show up. That is the message from Jackson Association of Neighborhoods (JAN) President, Ashlee Kelly. 

JAN has long served as a connector between neighborhood associations and residents throughout Jackson. While its board includes representatives from each of the city’s 7 wards, much of the work that moves the city forward happens within its committees. These groups focus on everything from neighborhood strengthening to sustainability to parks.

Right now, those committees need people.

“We are building on the momentum of so many past leaders,” Kelly said. “People have been doing this work for years. Now more people are becoming aware of it and asking how they can be involved.”  

There is no single path into the work. Some volunteers are matched to committees based on their skills. Others simply raise their hand and ask where they can help.

“Some people just ask, ‘Where do you need me?’ and they join a committee,” Kelly said.  

That openness is part of the organization’s strength. Committees offer a place for residents to explore their interests, build relationships and contribute in meaningful ways. For some, it also becomes a pathway into leadership.

Kelly describes committee work as both service and preparation. It is where volunteers learn how the organization functions and where future leaders often emerge.

“It’s a way for us to get to know people and see how they work,” she said.  

The need is real. With a small board and a citywide mission, JAN relies on committees to carry out its work.

Committee members help organize neighborhood meetings, support local events and step in when communities need additional support. When a ward representative is unavailable, committee members often fill the gap, ensuring that neighborhoods are still seen and heard.

JAN’s committees include Neighborhood Strengthening, Communications, Finance and Grants, Sustainability, Love Jackson Parks and the newly formed Neighborhood Archives and History Committee, each designed to support and strengthen Jackson neighborhoods in different ways.

One committee drawing particular attention right now is JAN’s Sustainability Committee, chaired by Felicia Tripp. As severe weather, flooding concerns and power outages continue to impact Jackson residents, the committee’s work has become increasingly important. Its primary focus is helping neighborhoods become more resilient before, during and after emergencies through connectivity, training and planning. That can include everything from helping residents better understand emergency preparedness resources to strengthening communication between neighbors during weather events and other crises. In a city where storms can quickly expose vulnerabilities, the committee is working to ensure neighborhoods are not navigating emergencies alone. Instead, the goal is to help residents build stronger systems of support long before disaster strikes.

For those wondering about the time commitment, Kelly offers a clear and approachable answer. She asks for about 10 hours a month. That time can include attending meetings, completing assignments and participating in neighborhood events.

“If you can give me 10 hours a month, that’s perfect,” she said.  

Many meetings are held virtually or during lunch hours and evenings, making it easier for working professionals and families to participate. The goal is not perfection. It is participation.

Kelly believes Jackson is at a moment that calls for more than observation. It calls for action. “It’s going to require everybody to be all hands on deck,” she said. This call to action includes residents of all ages. JAN continues to expand its reach, welcoming both younger volunteers and experienced community members. Together, they form the kind of collaboration that sustains communities over time.

“There’s a misconception that younger people are not civically engaged,” Kelly said. “But they bring energy and new ideas.” For Kelly, one of the most important parts of the work is making sure people feel seen. Much of what happens in neighborhoods is powered by volunteers who give their time after work, on weekends and in moments when it would be easier to rest. “I don’t think people realize how hard people are working in the community,” she said.  

That is why recognition matters. Whether through formal events like the city’s inaugural Community Impact Awards that were held in March 2026 or simple acknowledgments about leadership with spotlights in JAN’s newsletter, the organization works to highlight the people doing the work. The hope is that when others see that effort, they will be inspired to step forward as well.

“When people see what others are doing, they want to get involved,” Kelly said.

For those waiting for the right moment, consider this your invitation. There is no special credential required. No perfect timing. Just a willingness to step in and be part of the solution.

The Jackson Association of Neighborhoods is already in motion and ready to work. The question is, are you?

A full list of Committees and their descriptions can be found at: https://www.jxnneighborhoods.com/about-jan