Our Story

Keep Austin Neighborly began with a simple realization: Austin doesn't have a passion problem; it has an infrastructure problem.

Our journey started in 2020, working alongside grassroots leaders who were already doing the work. We saw that the biggest obstacle wasn't a lack of drive or ideas—it was the administrative red tape that kept them from owning their full potential.

We wanted to empower them by dismantling the barriers that keep neighbors from leading. So, we built the infrastructure to clear the path.

But a foundation is only the beginning. We are building a radically transparent ecosystem for community action. By weaving together creative storytelling and professional expertise, we ensure that every dollar is tracked and every story is amplified. We are building a world where every neighbor has the agency to shape their community, and the tools to make it last.

Today, we provide the fiscal architecture—from tax-exempt status to strategic tools—that enable our partners to stop worrying about compliance and start focusing on their mission. We handle the bureaucracy so they can handle the revolution.

Meet the Team

Our team is made up entirely of volunteers. It is important to us that every dollar goes to our work and our partners efforts.

  • Patty Fox - Board Member & Bookkeeping

    Patty Fox is a dedicated community advocate who brings a lifetime of hands-on volunteer experience to the Keep Austin Neighborly team. Her extensive service, supporting organizations from Habitat for Humanity to Leander Police Department's Victim Services, is driven by the conviction that security is the bedrock of agency. Patty’s roll-up-your-sleeves approach ensures our partners have the financial clarity they need to lead with confidence.

  • Cody Jackson - Videographer and Storyteller

    Cody Jackson is a professional videographer and believes that storytelling is a form of currency. He equips grassroots leaders with high-level visual strategies, giving them the voice to command attention and drive action.

    Visit Cody's Website 

  • Nick Raymond - Board Member

    With 15 years in legislative and regulatory affairs, Nick provides invaluable strategic guidance to our team. He is dedicated to driving informed decision-making, fostering collaborative relationships, and applying his expertise in public policy to help Keep Austin Neighborly achieve its mission-driven objectives.

  • Quinn Jones - Board Member

    Quentarius Jones is a vital bridge between data and direct service. His background as a Case Manager, combined with his current role as a Senior Research Analyst for the City of Austin, gives him a powerful ability to translate complex data into human-centric solutions. He is passionate about using these analytical skills to foster a more equitable and neighborly community.

  • Derek Burton - Founder

    Derek Burton is a community organizer who founded Keep Austin Neighborly to bridge the gap between passion and power. He saw that grassroots initiatives needed more than just praise—they needed a framework specifically built to scale their impact.

Want to do more?

Become a part of the Keep Austin Neighborly team. We're looking for skilled volunteers to help us grow. See our open roles and find out how you can lend your professional talent to our mission.

Join Our Team