AEDF Announcements

November 6, 2025 – AEDF Canal Ferry Terminal Signage

Thursday, November 6, 2025, the Algiers Economic Development Foundation had the honor of presenting new signage at the Canal Ferry Terminal. We are proud to bring acknowledgement and recognition to the West Bank through this signage.

Esteemed members of our community joined in celebrating our signs. Congressman Toy A. Carter, Sr., State Representative Delisha Boyd, Councilman Freddie King’s Chief of Staff, Chuck Toney, CEO of RTA, Lona Hankins, and our dedicated AEDF Board of Directors and staff.

Thank you to former Executive Director, Kelsey Foster, for initiating this achievement. As well as a thank you to Interim Executive Director, LaVerne Toombs for helping it come to fruition. Through the support of our community members, we hope, in the near future, to have the opportunity to present this signage on the West Bank side of the ferry.

July 21, 2025 – LaVerne Toombs Appointed as Interim Executive Director

The Algiers Economic Development Foundation (AEDF) is pleased to announce the appointment of LaVerne Toombs as Interim Executive Director. A seasoned leader in community and economic development, Ms. Toombs brings over two decades of experience in public service, nonprofit leadership, and strategic fundraising to this role.
 
Ms. Toombs has held senior leadership positions across Louisiana, including serving as Executive Director of the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce and Regional Manager for U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu. She is also the founder of Right 4U, LLC, a consulting firm supporting nonprofits and public sector organizations with fund development and organizational strategy.

“LaVerne is a proven changemaker whose deep roots in Louisiana and impressive leadership record make her an ideal fit to lead AEDF through this period of transition,” said Ben Morvant, AEDF Vice President. “We are confident she will help us maintain momentum and continue serving the Algiers community with excellence.”
 

As Interim Executive Director, Ms. Toombs will oversee key programs, community engagement initiatives, day-to-day organizational management, and fundraising strategies while supporting the AEDF Board of Directors in the search for permanent leadership. 
 
“I am deeply honored to serve as the Interim Executive Director of the Algiers Economic Development Foundation for the next three months. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Board of Directors for this opportunity. I look forward to utilizing every skill, talent, and experience I have to advance the organization’s mission and vision and serve the Algiers community with purpose and passion.”

We are still accepting applications for the permanent Executive Director position through July 31 and encourage interested candidates to apply. More information about the position and how to apply can be found at algierseconomic.com/careers-at-aedf

June 25, 2025 – Announcement of Leadership Transition at AEDF



To our members, partners, and supporters,  The Algiers Economic Development Foundation (AEDF) is starting a new chapter. After five years of dedicated service, Kelsey Foster will step down as Executive Director in early July.  

Throughout her tenure, Kelsey has been a passionate advocate for Algiers. Ms. Foster has worked diligently for Algiers, supporting small business growth, building partnerships, and leading initiatives that have showcased our community’s potential and elevated the visibility of our beloved Algiers community. Her leadership has established AEDF as a trusted voice and essential resource for economic and community development on the West Bank. Other accomplishments during Kelsey’s tenure have included:

  • Algiers being recognized as the first LED Development Ready Community in New Orleans and on the West Bank.
  • 1,200% growth in membership over the past 5 years
  • Tripling of both staff size and organizational budget
  • 208 Small Businesses Connected with Resources in One on One Support Sessions since 2021
  • Publication of first-ever Algiers Small Business Survey
  • Over 8,000% increase in Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert attendance through addition of our food truck festival, art market, and inclusion of community culture bearers
  • Engaged over 100 chefs, farmers, restaurant owners, entrepreneurs, and more for the publication of the Algiers Food & Beverage Industry Study 
  • 37 free small business-focused community events held
  • 17 new business or development ribbon cuttings held since 2023

We celebrate the strong foundation Kelsey leaves behind. Among her many notable achievements is the successful launch of the Algiers Career and Educational Development (ACED) Program. This youth workforce initiative was inspired by Louisiana State Senator Gary Carter, Jr. With Senator Carter’s guidance and Ms. Foster’s dedication, AEDF turned that vision into an opportunity for Algiers High School students. It equipped them with the skills, exposure, and support needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Ms. Foster’s efforts made this vital program a reality for our young residents. The ACED program offers Algiers high school juniors and seniors a chance to explore careers, build professional skills, and prepare for today’s job market. This program has produced:
 

  • 96 high school aged graduates since 2021
  • 22 sessions held over five years to teach financial literacy, resume writing, professional communication and interview etiquette
  • Field trips to over a dozen local employers, educational institutions, and post-graduation opportunities across the West Bank
  • Over 300 scholarships provided to ACED graduates

Ms. Foster’s commitment to empowering young people and investing in Algiers’ future shaped this important work. Current AEDF Board Chair Robert Royal notes:
“Kelsey Foster has been a tireless advocate for Algiers and a true partner to our residents and small businesses. Her leadership at AEDF has helped bring new energy, opportunity, and connection to our community. We’re incredibly thankful for everything she’s poured into this work and into Algiers and wish her the best in her future endeavors.” 
The AEDF Board of Directors has developed a strong Transition Committee to lead the search for AEDF’s next Executive Director, which includes pursuit of an Interim Executive Director. This will ensure a smooth transition and continued organizational progress. The process is already underway, and we are focused on finding a data-driven, dynamic leader who can build on our past success and steer AEDF into its next chapter.  

We’re excited about what is ahead and invite you to stay connected as we welcome new leadership and keep working toward a thriving Algiers.  

The job posting and more information are available at www.algierseconomic.com. Please help us share this opportunity with those who believe in Algiers as much as we do. For media questions, please contact AEDF Transition Committee Chair Krystal Hardy Allen at info@kallenconsulting.org.
 
With appreciation and optimism,  

AEDF Board of Directors