Chrissy Erb
Executive Director
In January 2023, Chrissy Erb was hired as Director, Essex Development Initiative with the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce to manage the efforts to revitalize Essex with full funding through 2024 from Essex Reimagined, a place-based initiative established by the Office of the Baltimore County Executive, Johny Olszewski, Jr. At the end of 2023, Essex Community Development Organization was formed. Chrissy is the only paid staff member within the organization as is responsible for carrying out its mission as guided by the Board of Directors. Once funding for the Essex Development Initiative ends in December 2024, Essex CDC will stand alone as a 501(c)(3) but will ALWAYS maintain a strong partnership with the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce, its founding organization.
Chrissy brings not only experience in partnership building and community development and engagement, but a passion for it! Her time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Republic of Moldova as well as her upbringing in her faith community both formed and fueled her desire to give back to the greater community and make a difference in the lives of others. She has spent over two decades gaining experience in a variety of roles at the local, national and international level, with organizations including the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Episcopal Community Services of Maryland, Boston Partners in Education, the United Nations Development Program, and Civic Works, Inc. Her variety of skills – including project development, implementation, and evaluation, grant writing and monitoring, volunteer recruitment and management, budget creation and management, and partnership building – are well suited for her role in Essex. She is active in her children’s school community and enjoys cheering on her children in their sports activities and band concerts. Chrissy is a native of Baltimore City and loves trying out new restaurants, supporting local businesses, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Alison Maxwell
Business Engagement Manager
Alison, a resident of Essex for 15 years, became acquainted with Essex Community Development Corporation while attending a conference and expressed a strong desire to contribute to the growth and revitalization of the area. Through her professional experience with local non-profit organizations and Maryland Small Businesses, she hopes to engage businesses and community members to create a diverse and welcoming environment. Holding a degree in Studio Art and managing her own fiber art business, she encourages using creativity to devise solutions and bring to life new ideas.
Darasimi Arilesere
Beautification Ambassador
Darasimi helps create safe, clean, and inviting spaces throughout Essex. As a recent graduate of Chesapeake High School, Darasimi brings fresh energy, dedication, and a strong commitment to enhancing the community.
He takes pride in contributing to Essex’s growth, connecting with residents, and seeing the positive impact of his efforts in making the area a place people can truly be proud of. Outside of his community work, Darasimi enjoys engaging with neighbors, exploring local spaces, and supporting initiatives that strengthen the character and vibrancy of Essex.
Josh Strother
Resident Agent; Accountant
Josh is a lifelong Parkville resident and an experienced accountant, bringing over eight years of financial expertise to Essex CDC. He is passionate about helping build a stronger, more sustainable future for the community.
Outside of his professional work, Josh enjoys spending time with his family and can often be found on the golf course, combining his love for the game with quality time and relaxation
Leah Boyd
Leah Boyd is an intern at the Essex Community Development Corporation. Leah is deeply committed and passionate about the Essex CDC mission to help strengthen the community and see growth throughout Essex.
