Libby Palackdharry is the Director of Economic Opportunity Services at Wayne Metro Community Action Agency (WM). In this role, she provides research, coordination, implementation, and oversight of WM’s Economic Opportunity Services. She is also responsible for collaborating internally and externally to integrate economic opportunity services into other human service and community development program models. 

Libby’s team serves Wayne County residents through services including financial education and one-on-one coaching; helping homeowners apply for foreclosure assistance and property tax exemptions; helping homebuyers access down payment assistance; providing matched saving and credit building tools; providing free tax preparation services; and annual participation in CEDAM’s Show Me the Money Day.

Libby started her career in the nonprofit sector as an AmeriCorps VISTA at Southwest Solutions in 2009. During her tenure at SWS, she developed the homeownership and financial coaching team to become a recognized leader in the field, receiving multiple awards including the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s Housing Counseling Agency of the Year award in 2014 and the Champion for Working Families award at the Detroit Community Development Awards in 2015. In 2017, Libby was selected as one of Crain’s Detroit Business’s 40 Under 40 awardees. Libby received her undergraduate degree in Communications and Spanish from Michigan State University and her Master’s in Urban Planning from Wayne State University.

Libby is passionate about building thriving communities with equitable access to opportunities. She is proud to serve on the CEDAM Board and support the organization’s work to ensure Michigan communities are financially empowered, equitable and vibrant.