About 1st Neighbor
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Meet 1st Neighbor
1st Neighbor is a 501c3 nonprofit organization established by African American women educators, Dr. Ida Short and Ms Betti Wiggins.
Ms. Betti Wiggins is an award-winning School Nutrition Administrator with over thirty years of experience, serving various school districts nationwide. She is the Deputy Chief of Nutrition Service in Houston Independent School District, recognized for promoting healthy school meals, gardens, and agricultural literacy.
Dr. Ida Short is a dedicated educator and community activist focused on improving educational opportunities for K-12 and college students. Her research centers on expanding education and workforce chances for African American males with experiences in the criminal justice system.
Our history
1st Neighbor's members have a long history with Idlewild Michigan being property owners and summer residents. Through their love of Idlewild, they decided to join forces to help bring the "Black Eden" back to a bustling community that benefits both residents and tourists.
Our Vision
1st Neighbor's vision for the Casa Blanc Hotel is to preserve the Hotel’s cultural legacy as a Green Book site, establish a museum, housing for veterans, several B&B suites for cultural tourist and a transformative educational and training center for youth and the wider community.