Meet Mary Ann
Looking Ahead Together
I don’t just talk about what Rossmoor needs—I spend most of my time volunteering to truly understand what makes our community tick and how we can keep moving forward together. My role with the RHA is just the start. I also volunteer outside of Rossmoor, bringing back the best opportunities, information, and connections to help us thrive.
Many of you have shared great ideas about how to make Rossmoor better. While some are still in the “nice to have” stage, I’m excited to share what I’ve been working on. Along the way, I’ve met others with the same passion for our community, and together we’re exploring new possibilities and challenges. If we haven't crossed paths, look for me. Eventually we'll get to know one another.
1. Getting to Know Rossmoor (and Beyond!)
I start with the same information our government agencies use: census data. When I talk with agencies, non-profits, and even private enterprises, I can bring those numbers to life by sharing details about who we really are as a community. It's a delicate balance to translate our daily lives into "data" that drives the decisions that many use to make decisions that drive resources for our future.
Rossmoor is almost evenly divided into thirds: singles and young families, established families, and residents 50+ (a growing group). Many people who move away come back to buy homes here. While most of our homes are owner-occupied, we have some rentals that attract young professionals and single parents. We’re predominantly white, but we’re also home to a growing diversity of backgrounds that make our community richer.
Knowing a community means more than just spending years in one place—it’s about getting to know the people and being part of their day-to-day lives. That’s how you really understand a place.
2. Working WITH Neighbors, Not Just FOR Them
As RHA’s Community Engagement Coordinator, my goal is to find common ground and work with the community to meet our shared needs. It’s not about doing things for the community, but doing things together.
I also track data from our social media channels. Why? Because it’s important to focus on the numbers that really matter. I take who we are as a community and turn that information into the data our representatives need to advocate for us. Our media efforts have grown, and I’ll let the RHA share more about that soon. For now, my focus is making sure what we do is useful and enjoyable for everyone.
When it comes time to vote for your Community Services District Board, look for the candidate or candidates who really listen. Anyone can make campaign promises or develop sound bites, but Rossmoor is a small enough community that we can—and should—know who’s managing the decisions about our parks and shared spaces. After all, “shared” in Rossmoor means they’re partly yours. We purchased these parks and community facilities. And it is our responsibility to take care of them. Remember that it’s important to consider them with the same thoughtfulness you use when making decisions about your own home.
Thanks for being part of what makes Rossmoor so special—it’s because of all of you.