River City Six: Arian Haddix
The Council Bluffs Community Education Foundation (www.commedfoundation.org) was founded in 1991 on the premise of opening Kids & Company, the before and after school program located in the Council Bluffs schools. Since then the organization has grown to encompass the Council Bluffs Alumni & Friends Network, STARS Scholarship Program sponsored by the Iowa West Foundation, and a variety of programs to support students and educators in the Council Bluffs Community School District. Arian Haddix is the Director of the Council Bluffs Community Education Foundation’s Alumni & Friends Network (www.cbalumni.org).
How did you get started in the business?
I have worked in the non-profit industry for many years in a variety of community engagement roles. As an alumni of the Council Bluffs schools, the opportunity to blend my past experiences in Council Bluffs and my professional background has been a rewarding transition.
Tell us a little about your family.
I am married to my husband Dave, and we just celebrated our 10 year anniversary. We have 3 active kids that keep us on the go: Hunter (16), Jocelyn (15) and Cooper (9). Council Bluffs Community Education Foundation
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Most definitively, having children. A parent’s life focus completely changes, priorities shift and the new job title of Mom offers the new challenge of a brand new “to-do” list.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Picking just one thing is difficult! I love working on home improvement projects, being outside, and being active playing and watching sports.
What are you the most proud of?
Up to this point, I think that my children are turning into good people. My hope is that they continue to “do what’s right” and find their place in the world. Of course, after we survive the rest of the teenage years!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My dad always told us when we were younger, “If you don’t have time to do it right the first time, when will you have time to do it over?” That has stuck with me and can apply to so many areas life; work projects, first impressions, parenting challenges, and everyday tasks.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Impactful.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Historic home renovation. There are so many beautiful homes in our area and I’d love to be able to restore them all!
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
The American Cancer Society has been a part of our lives for many years, as we like so many others have been affected by cancer in many ways. I’m also proud to serve on the board for the YMCA, where my children all attended child care and pre-school programs. We are proud to support organizations that provide opportunities for youth, whether it is educational support, sports activities, literacy, social support or other projects that give kids an opportunity to be successful and just be kids.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Barleys, on the 100 Block in Council Bluffs.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Maya Angelou.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Call (712) 322-8800 Ext. 8 or email ahaddix@cb-cef.org. You can find out more about the CB Community Education Foundation at www.commedfoundation.org; the Alumni & Friends Network can be found at www.cbalumni.org.
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