Becca Richardson's work investing in neighborhoods and communities is deeply personal. So is this conversation with DHCD's Rebecca Rowe, in which the Richmond based economic development and community finance professional digs into how we can better engage in the world around us.

Becca Richmond currently serves Virginia residents through her work at LISC Virginia. "The people in a community have the solutions. They know what they need," says Richardson. "The community will tell you how to help them."

Most recently, Becca served as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Opportunity Zones as Director of Project Development for Opportunity Virginia, an initiative led by Virginia Community Capital and funded by Virginia Housing. Becca spent her prior 15 years in the financial services industry, from private equity to municipal bonds compliance and mutual funds. She has a B.A. in Economics from Barnard College of Columbia University. Becca enjoys front porch chatting and outdoor adventures with her wife and two children.