Meet Alison Napolitano. Annapolis-native, laxer, art major and big ole Redskins fan.

1. Tell us about ThDstrct. What made you want to make this?

ThDstrct is a simple and straightforward website that promotes and connects creative individuals. DC has numerous tech groups, photography sites, and strategist and marketing groups, but we wanted to have a place where the different creative pools of people could connect. By linking talented individuals through ThDstrct and making a creative community, we are hoping to promote partnerships, jobs and connections.

Domain7 launched ThDstrct’s sister site first. Our headquarters are in Vancouver and we wanted to make the first creative site there. After watching the successful results we had with Vancvr.com, and knowing the quality of talent DC has to offer, we absolutely had to start a forum for connecting creative people in DC.

2. What are the top things folks can get from your website, ThDstrct.com.

By joining ThDstrct, creatives will join a community of talented individuals that are looking to to connect with other creatives.  For our sister site, Vancvr.com, Domain7 has partnered with a local blog to feature artists and promote and publicize their work. Domain7 East is looking to connect with bloggers and possibly form a partnership to get ThDstrct community out to the general public. Out in Vancouver we have seen jobs filled, connections and partnerships formed, and just an overall excitement and buzz throughout the creative community. We are hoping that DC takes it to a whole other level and we are extremely excited to see what happens in the future!

3. What is your favorite thing about the nation’s capitol?

What is there not to love about DC!? I love the hustle and bustle of daily life here. I love how there are always creative people connecting, brainstorming, and forming ideas.  I’m honored to work in the hub of American politics and with so many different cultures that are here because of that. However, I would have to say I love my DC sports!  I do still hail for the Skins and nothing is quite like rocking the Red when the CAPS play at home!

4. The White House calls and says that Michelle Obama wants to kick it this Friday. Where are y’all going and what are you doing?

The First Lady and I share a passion for service and working with youth. Just thinking about what we could do in one day gets me excited!  When I’m not working, I coach lacrosse at a local high school. I would LOVE to chat with Michelle Obama about her Let’s Move program and how we can better promote healthy living among America’s youth! Also, as I’m from Annapolis, home of the USNA, and as I have family members that have served in the military, I think partaking in her support of military families would be awesome! She is a huge promoter of the arts and art education – I was an art major and now I am passionate about ThDstrct – there would definitely be a partnership formed. So basically, our time would consist of brainstorming and me following  her along to serve our great city! Although…it would have to be more like a weekend instead of just Friday.

5. So you were born in Annapolis, MD – How does DC compare?

To be quite honest, it doesn’t. Annapolis will always be my favorite place.  It is a hub for skilled boaters and best laxer’s around (lacrosse players) – two of my favorite activities.  I love DC, but Annapolis will always have my heart!