Thank you for following along with our monthly Chamber Camaraderie and Main Streets series, which highlights outstanding and hardworking team members from Chambers of Commerce and Main Streets throughout Massachusetts.

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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do at West Roxbury Main Streets?

Hello! I’m Danielle O’Brien, a local real estate agent and the broker/owner of Parkway Real Estate on Centre Street in West Roxbury. My brick & mortar is located within a Boston main street’s district and about five years ago I had an opportunity to step up as a board member for West Roxbury Main Streets.

Originally, my role was to head up the Economic Vitality committee and I did that for a couple of years. Currently, I serve on the executive team as Treasurer.

Our main goal is to support the businesses along our main streets district in Boston’s West Roxbury neighborhood, ensuring it is a vibrant and welcoming space.

What made you want to volunteer?

As the owner of a small business along the WRMS strip, I knew of their work and wanted to be more involved. It was a great opportunity to network with neighbors, and business owners, while also supporting my community.

What do you love the most about the area where you live in Massachusetts?

I love that we are a small, tight-knit neighborhood within the city.

Why do you think it’s important for everyone to be a member of a Chamber of Commerce or Main Streets?

Our board has opened opportunities for me, which is great – and maybe was the initial goal. Though, now that I’m looking back on the last five years I really have grown professionally and personally more than I imagined. Also, it’s very rewarding when you are a board member for something that means something to you. Being able to have input on what happens in the community I live and work in is invaluable.

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?

I have always found it important to keep growing, and keep the needle facing up. Though, I’ve learned now that burnout is a real thing and it is important to commit to things you can follow through on and be honest when you cannot. When you own businesses, have family responsibilities, join Boards, and try to do “all the things” you end up spreading yourself too thin. So, before joining anything that involves a time commitment, be sure to really know what you are getting into.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?

What a great question. I think about this a lot, but honestly I really love what I do. I get to meet new people, work with numbers and negotiations – which I love, and not be strapped to a desk 9-5. I guess the only thing better would be some travel, so maybe I would say selling real estate on a beautiful island!

When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?

I’ve gotten into golf over the past few years – I won’t be going pro anytime soon but I enjoy gathering with friends and walking 9 holes followed by a snack or beverage. It’s a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and catch up. I’ve even used it for networking meetings which has been super fun!

Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with your West Roxbury Main Streets or find it online.

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