Sarah Walton LaFave
Executive Director
Blueprint 15
Sarah LaFave is the Executive Director at Blueprint 15, responsible for guiding the organization’s vision, strategic development, and implementation. In this role, Sarah advances resident-driven community development by connecting, strategizing, and facilitating thoughtful collaboration between residents, community partners, and local leaders.
Sarah is a graduate of Syracuse University with a BA in Policy Studies and Geography. She has extensive experience in neighborhood revitalization, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement. In her free time, Sarah enjoys reading, traveling, and trying new recipes.
10:30 am - 12:00 pm ET
Workshops I-VI: Block I
Building Economic Mobility in Place
Room: Grand 2
Discover how Build from Within Alliance is transforming economic opportunity from the inside out. This national network of community development organizations implements a tailor-made place-based economic vitality model that grows local entrepreneurship in historically disinvested communities. Hear directly from a BfWA member and a local entrepreneur whose journey illustrates how this model reshapes what’s possible for residents. Purpose Built Network Members will also share how they plan to partner with BfWA to adapt this approach within their own neighborhoods. The session is designed for any neighborhood seeking to strengthen resident economic mobility. Attendees will hear practical examples, clear roles, and right‑sized next steps for building vibrant, resilient local economic ecosystems—starting exactly where you are.
