As Program Associate, Jessica works with partners to implement strategies that strengthen the well-being and resiliency of Maine children and their families. Her role at the Foundation builds on a careerlong commitment to developing and advancing cross-sector approaches to help people and communities thrive.
Before joining the Foundation, Jessica held positions at the Department of Housing and Urban Development focused on leveraging affordable housing as a platform for creating opportunities for children and families. This work included helping create the Choice Neighborhoods program – a comprehensive grant program that aims to catalyze public and private investment in distressed neighborhoods and improve the lives of residents. She later served as a senior advisor at HUD, leading strategic planning, communications, and management of policy and operational issues. She began her career as an outreach worker and case manager at the Preble Street Teen Center in Portland.
Jessica has a Master of Public Policy and Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan.