Erika Carlsen

Growing up in a family that offered warm meals, open doors, and helping hands to anyone in need, Erika learned early on that love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a practice. As the granddaughter of immigrants and the daughter of a small business owner, she knows the power of hard work and the transformative impact of neighbors caring for neighbors. From her work at the Rockwood Institute, helping to support and connect leaders across movements, to her time at Harvard Divinity School, to her current position at the Trustbased Philanthropy Project, helping to center philanthropy on community values, and her work as a co-founder of the Ballpark Action Team, advocating for neighborhood improvement and investment, Erika has always prioritized collaboration, empathy, and the power of community engagement. She’s running for Salt Lake City Council District 5 to build a stronger community by taking care of each other and focusing on the things that matter most: safe streets, thriving local businesses, green spaces for everyone, and a government that works for all of us.