Meet the Fellows

Francesca Parent

Hometown: 

Long Beach, CA
Francesca is excited to support the Central Louisiana region in increasing its capacity and resilience, particularly relating to disaster recovery and mitigation. She hopes to play a small part in helping the area thrive after its numerous natural disasters, build and support strategies for resilience and disaster mitigation, and bring awareness of the needs of rural communities.

Originally from southern California, Francesca spent half her life in Buenos Aires. She loved both spaces, but became highly aware of the economic disparities she saw in Los Angeles and Argentina. This perspective drove her passion for working in communities and helping marginalized groups organize sustainably focusing on both equity and environmental justice. Whenever able, she can be found in nature, whether hiking, stargazing, camping, or SCUBA diving.

ERC Project

Project Title: 

Kisatchie-Delta Regional Operations and Resiliency Center (KD-RORC)

Host Community or Region: 

Louisiana

Host Organization: 

Kisatchie-Delta Regional Planning & Development District
The Kisatchie-Delta Regional Operations and Resiliency Center (KD-RORC) in Alexandria, La., addresses economic disadvantages in the rural Delta region, serving as a vital hub for collaboration and practical solutions. Positioned in the heart of the state, the initiative will open a Regional Operations and Resiliency Center, aiming for perpetual economic recovery. The impact of the project is profound, establishing an equity-centric anchor to strengthen collaboration and improve response in the region. The ERC Fellow will engage the community, explore resources, and cultivate partnerships, while contributing to the development of a Council of Peers and fostering co-ownership and resilience-building capabilities. The impact extends beyond immediate disaster relief, promoting sustained economic recovery for the region.

Interested in supporting this project or learning more? Contact the ERC program team here.