Executive Highlight

Erica Williams

Executive Director, A Red Circle

Industry: Nonprofit

Business Founded: 2017

Phone: (314) 328-2386

Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Address:
6439 PLYMOUTH AVE STE W130
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63133

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How long have you been in your industry?8 years

Why did you choose your industry?After the death of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, I left my career as a paralegal to found A Red Circle, aiming to heal and uplift North St. Louis County. Focused on eliminating food deserts, the organization also advances racial equity through education, nutrition, and the arts. Today, A Red Circle leads initiatives like community gardening, youth programming, and The Creative Spot arts hub, and is preparing to open a grocery store to serve local families.

Who are your typical clients?A Red Circle's typical clients are residents of North St. Louis County, particularly those in predominantly Black communities affected by systemic disinvestment, food insecurity, and limited access to educational and wellness resources. The organization focuses on serving low-income families, children, youth, veterans, and older adults. Through its programs in education, community wellness, and

What do you like best about being in this industry?Empowering residents through access to healthy food, education, and creative outlets, and seeing how these efforts uplift families and create lasting change. The chance to build stronger, healthier neighborhoods and foster community resilience keeps me inspired and motivated.

What are common problems you see?A Red Circle faces underfunding, small, overworked teams, and reliance on short-term grants. Systemic barriers, limited policy influence, and outdated public perceptions hinder progress. Funders often favor trendy projects over sustainable, community-driven solutions. Access to technology and data tools is limited, making it more challenging to demonstrate impact and secure support.

What advice/tips do you have for clients?I advise prioritizing self-care and community connection. Stay informed on local resources like SNAP and join neighborhood programs for better food access. I encourage collaboration, policy advocacy, and using creativity for healing. Staying resilient and engaged helps us build stronger, healthier communities together.

When is your busy season?A Red Circle’s busy season is roughly May–October, the peak growing months. Weekly Good Food Fridays distribute fresh produce and nutrition tips, while the monthly Healthy Community Market offers pay-what-you-can produce and supports local vendors.

What keeps you up at night?n/a

How do you market yourself to grow/expand your business?Leveraging community partnerships, social media, and storytelling to highlight the organization’s impact. She focuses on sharing success stories, engaging local leaders, and participating in events and media interviews to raise awareness. Collaborations with nonprofits, policy advocacy, and consistent outreach help build trust and expand their reach, attracting supporters, volunteers, and funding

How involved are you in the community?At A Red Circle, I'm deeply involved in the community. We run Good Food Fridays for fresh produce and nutrition, and organize emergency relief post-disasters. Our Creative Spot promotes arts and wellness, while the Education Department empowers youth and adults. I also collaborate with local leaders and host workshops, fostering stronger, healthier neighborhoods

What is your favorite not for profit or charity?Black Girls Do Stem

What advice would you give to someone thinking of getting into this business?Make sure your heart is in it. This work takes passion, patience, and a deep commitment to the community you serve. Build real relationships, listen more than you speak, and stay rooted in the mission, not the money. The impact is worth it.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?In my free time, I’m all about Beyoncé—her music always lifts me up and inspires me. I also love traveling because it lets me explore new places, meet different people, and see the world from fresh perspectives. It’s a great way to recharge and stay creative.

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