How a Community Leader is Advocating for Historic Anacostia

May is National Preservation Month! This year’s Preservation Month theme, “The Power of Place,” shines a light on the big and small ways historic preservation revitalizes communities through vibrant downtowns, jobs, affordable housing, increased property values, climate-friendly options, and civic pride. Read our interview below with Jared Powell, President of the Historic Anacostia Block Association, on his civic engagement efforts to uplift Historic Anacostia.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am originally from San Luis Obispo, California, and moved to DC in January 1998 for an internship with Presidential Classroom, which introduced US and international high school juniors and seniors to the political process through immersive experiences. Afterwards, I worked in various capacities at The White House during the Clinton Administration, The Smithsonian Institution, and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Following a short stint in Los Angeles, I returned to DC to lead Casey Trees’ communications division for seven years, where I grew its brand identity and ultimately launched its fundraising arm. It’s also where I met my partner of 13 years, Andrew Schichtel. Today, I serve as the Chief of Staff for the District’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration.

I serve as the President of the Historic Anacostia Block Association and Treasurer of the McGill Row Association Board and participate on the board of the Historic Anacostia Preservation Society (HAPS). Additionally, I volunteer with the Humane Rescue Alliance’s Trap-Neuter-and Return Program which works to spay/neuter feral cats in DC to curb overpopulation. Over four years, I have helped to spay and neuter more than 230 cats within Historic Anacostia.

My commitment to service originates from my experiences with Boy Scout of America where I achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and values instilled in me by my grandmother. Personal interests include civic engagement, gardening, entertaining, and meeting and connecting neighbors.

How did you get involved with the Historic Anacostia Block Association (HABA)?

I was looking for an opportunity to connect and contribute after moving to Historic Anacostia during the pandemic. Helping to revive the Historic Anacostia Block Association (HABA), which went dormant during the pandemic, was the perfect opportunity to add value. I am thankful to the HABA co-founder for entrusting the legacy of the civic association to the current board. HABA is all about complementing and amplifying efforts by existing groups and organizations such as the ANC and our strong local faith network, identifying and filling voids, and advocating for equitable District Government and for-profit business services, amenities, and financial investment that Historic Anacostia and greater Ward 8 residents deserve.

Tell us what you love about Historic Anacostia and the community.

I feel a strong sense of belonging in Historic Anacostia, unlike anywhere else I’ve lived in DC over 30 years. My volunteerism with HABA is how I express my gratitude for the warm, ongoing welcome we have been extended. I am thankful every day that I have had the good fortune of calling Historic Anacostia home.

What role do you think historic preservation can play in uplifting and protecting Historic Anacostia?

Historic preservation plays a crucial role in uplifting and protecting Historic Anacostia by preserving its unique architectural and cultural character, promoting economic growth, and fostering community identity. By safeguarding historic buildings and sites, preservation efforts help retain a sense of place, encourage tourism, and support local businesses. 

What progress/change do you hope to see for Historic Anacostia?

I would like for the integration of historic preservation and storytelling into community planning to be recognized as crucial for attracting the amenities that residents have long requested and strengthening community character. 

Storytelling helps to preserve cultural heritage by keeping traditions, beliefs, and histories alive, offering insights into everyday life and cultural nuances that may not be formally documented. Historic preservation can enhance a neighborhood’s appeal by preserving its unique identity and creating walkable, human-scaled environments. 

For this to embraced by residents, the District Government, for-profits, and for-purpose organizations must invest more financial resources and adopt more cost effective and practical historic preservation options for property owners.

What has been your most rewarding experience with HABA?

Connecting with neighbors and advocating for shared priorities such as clean streets and alleyways, greater diversity in housing stock, increased and safer transportation options, and boosting civic engagement have been tremendous highlights for me. We’ve accomplished quite a bit, particularly behind the scenes, and we are just getting started.

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Keep up the great work, Jared! You can stay up to date on Jared’s work with HABA and get involved by connecting with HABA on social media.