Local Music Legend J.D. Steele Joins the Board of Be That Neighbor

Article by Becky Fillinger

Local nonprofit, Be That Neighbor, welcomes a new board member – J.D. Steele! J.D. is the director of the MacPhail Community Youth Choir and teaches in the school’s Partnerships Program. He is also a member of the highly acclaimed vocal group, The Steeles.

J.D. Steele and Claudia Kittock

Claudia Kittock, Board President, has a long association with J.D. “J.D. Steele and I met when our charity hired him to direct the Mill City Singers. We have worked together for almost 5 years and all of it has been a joy. J.D. is that rare human who is able to combine amazing artistry with genuine humanity. He is what he appears to be - a wonderful singer, gifted director, and fabulous friend. When the board discussed adding another board member, J.D. was the perfect choice. He brings enormous creativity and a lifelong belief in our mission of being the type of neighbor you would want to have. We are honored to have him join our work. He makes us so much stronger.”

J.D. notes, “It is great to be part of an organization like Be That Neighbor – one that is grass-rooted in change. I look forward to expanding our presence and having an impact on the Twin Cities.”

The nonprofit is currently collecting nominations for Good Neighbors. In October, they’ll celebrate A Neighbor A Day. Know someone you'd like to nominate? Send your nominations to: https://millcitytimes.survey.fm/nominate-a-good-neighbor. 

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About Becky Fillinger

I’ve been a resident of the Mill District only since July 2019, but have visited the Guthrie, the Farmers Market, restaurants and friends in the area for many years prior to making the leap to Minneapolis. I’ve lived in many places (and climates) in the US and can testify that our cultural events, bicycle and hiking trails, parks and green spaces, museums, diverse neighborhoods and wonderful restaurants put Minnesota and Minneapolis high on my best places list. I’m a member of the Mill City Singers and look forward to our choir practices and performances.

One of my main interests is community - a very broad concept. For me it means bringing people together with common interests to form meaningful relationships. I look forward to reporting on businesses and individuals in our neighborhoods. Feel free to drop me an email at becky_fillinger@hotmail.com with your thoughts and ideas for stories.