OUR TEAM
Our team is literally the boots on the ground that make our mission happen: transforming Lansdowne, East St. Louis, into a thriving neighborhood - one person, one property, at a time.
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LIFE & WORK SKILLS that enhance the quality of life.
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High standards of CHARACTER.
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High standards of conduct and RELATIONSHIP with others.
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Seeking and following GOD as the foundation of our lives.
OUR TEAM lives out our values each day as we learn, model, and teach:
Darwin Walker - Director of Operations
Darwin Walker - Director of Operations Darwin Walker joined Lansdowne UP as the Director of Operations in October 2024, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the community. A native of East St. Louis, Darwin's roots in the "City of Champions" run deep, having graduated from the former Lansdowne Jr. High School and East St. Louis Senior High School. Professional Experience Darwin's diverse professional background has equipped him with a unique skill set ideal for his role at Lansdowne UP: - Corporate Trainer at Continental Airlines - IT Project Manager at Spectrum Communications - Worship Arts Director at New Life Community Church - Relationship Ministry Leader at Living the Word Church (current) Community Involvement Darwin has been actively involved in community service, demonstrating his commitment to the East St. Louis area: - Camp Counselor for the East St. Louis Community Camp (2006) - Camp Director for the East St. Louis Community Camp (2009) - Board President for the East St. Louis Community Camp (2012) - Board President for the East St. Louis Senior High School Class of 1983 Alumni Association (2023) Personal Life Darwin has been married to his wife, Lisa, for 29 years. They have two children, daughter Courtney and son James. After living in Houston, TX for two decades, the Walker family has returned to the East St. Louis area. Motivation Darwin's acceptance of the role at Lansdowne UP was largely motivated by his passion for sharing hope and his faith in Jesus Christ. This aligns closely with the Lansdowne UP's mission and values. Darwin's extensive experience in both corporate and community settings, combined with his faith in Christ and deep-rooted connection to East St. Louis, makes him a valuable addition to the Lansdowne UP team.
Kevin Green - Director of Administration
Kevin Green is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana who now calls East St. Louis home. He received his bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from the University of Notre Dame. After college, he served as a Strategic Missile Launch Officer in the United States Air Force where he developed a no-excuses mentality and gained a keen sense of attention to detail. After active duty, he served as an officer in the Air National Guard, both in Louisiana and Missouri, where he gained extensive administrative and personnel management skills. Kevin worked 25 years in medical device and equipment sales, further honing his attention to detail. He and his wife, Monique, answered The Lord’s call to ministry over a decade ago and moved to East St. Louis to bring the Good News to people who have lost faith in God. Over the years, Kevin has served in many areas of ministry both within and outside of the church. He views his role with Lansdowne UP as ministry service. He is passion ate about seeing people discover and flourish in their God-given gifts and talents. Kevin and his wife Monique love serving the community of East St. Louis and are passionate about the spiritual and economic revival of the city and its residents. They are parents to four adult children, three sons and one daughter.
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We believe success is achieved when we honor and glorify God with our lives.
A Conversation with Andrew, a Lansdowne UP Employee:
Why do you work for Lansdowne UP?
I want to be a part of the change that’s taking place in East Saint Louis. Knowing every day you get to work and hopefully make a difference in someone’s life for the good is pretty special.
What changes do you see in the neighborhood?
I’m starting to see people take pride in their neighborhoods. As old houses are removed or renovated, individuals are making an effort to make their properties look nicer.
How has working with Lansdowne UP transformed you personally?
Working with other people that are faithful to God has strengthened my own faith. My coworkers challenge me daily in my walk with Christ and help me to grow spiritually. I see servant leadership modeled from the top down in this organization.
Is it important for Lansdowne UP to be here? Why?
Absolutely. People in East Saint Louis are starting to see the change that is happening in their community. People know that Lansdowne Up is here to show the love of Jesus Christ and this gives the community hope.
What is your vision for the Lansdowne UP neighborhood going forward?
I would love to see East Saint Louis return to the thriving city it once was. For the JJK Center to keep on expanding and the Lansdowne neighborhood to continue to grow and flourish. I look forward to people being proud to say that they’re from East Saint Louis.