Purple has always been drawn to community. Whether through a camera lens or a neighborhood meeting, she finds meaning in connecting people and uplifting voices that too often go unheard. That passion found a new home in 2021 when she moved into one of JPNDC’s buildings and immediately got involved. A flyer in her building invited residents to a meeting, and she decided to go. 

“I just knew I wanted to be part of that work,” she recalls. Cristal Martinez, JPNDC’s Associate Director of Community Organizing, asked what safety felt like in their building and neighborhood. “People brought up things like gun violence, kids being able to play outside, and women feeling safe walking home at night.” That night, when she learned she could improve safety by becoming a Building Captain, Purple jumped at it. “I love serving my community in any way I can,” she says. 

Homelessness once kept that opportunity out of reach. For seven years, Purple alternated between shelters and family members’ homes. “It was hard,” she says. “People would steal things, and there wasn’t much respect for space. I’m vegan for health reasons, and shelters rarely have food I can eat. I was grateful when I had somewhere to go, but I never wanted to be a burden.”  

Finding her own place and a community that values her voice has meant everything. “I’ve been in Boston my whole life. Living in JP now, being part of JPNDC, it just feels like I’m where I’m supposed to be.” 

Purple’s passion for helping others comes from her family. Her mother is deeply involved in organizations like Neighbor to Neighbor, Concerned Citizens for Lynn, and Massachusetts Senior Action. “My mom’s love for the community shaped my life,” Purple says. “Growing up, my parents made sure we volunteered all year long. It just became who I am.” 

Outside of organizing, Purple expresses herself through photography, a lifelong passion she uses to advocate for others. “I call myself a photo activist,” she says. “I use photos to uplift communities that need it and to shine a light on issues that aren’t often spoken about.” 

Now, Purple dreams of forming a Jackson Square Neighborhood Association so residents can unite, share ideas, and create change together. “We have people with voices who want better for our community,” she says. “Even if you’ve been through hard times, you can still make a difference.” 

Do you know someone who’s interested in community organizing? JPNDC can help! Visit us at Community Organizing – JPNDC.