FUN FACTS ABOUT JORDAN!
If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
"Not necessarily a theme song, but one that really resonates with me. Most People are Good by Luke Bryan. Give it a listen…. And really listen to the lyrics"
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
"Neil Armstrong – I’d love to hear how he was feeling during the space race. How did he handle the pressure? How did he feel being at the center of national attention? What was on his mind as he stepped onto the surface of the moon?"
What’s your favorite local restaurant or hidden gem in town?
"Dog n Suds – My girls love to fold down the seats and eat in the back of the car. We’ve made it a family tradition to go during opening week each year."
What’s a hobby or interest of yours that might surprise people?
"Traveling – My wife and I love to travel and have instilled that into our kids as well."
If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
"Mr Fix It – I grew up working on things with my dad. I love figuring out how things work and am the go to among my friends for 'How do I fix…'"
If you could instantly learn any skill, what would it be?
"I grew up playing the saxophone and played in numerous school and community bands. I love making up songs with my kids and wish I could play the guitar."
What’s your favorite childhood memory?
"Working with my dad in the summer or on snow days."
What’s your most used phrase or catchphrase at work?
“'Put some time on my calendar' Not proud of it, but I live my life by Microsoft Outlook."
WHY UNITED WAY?
What inspired you to step into the role of Campaign Chair this year?
"My family and I moved to Lafayette in late 2015…. We didn’t expect to still be here over 10 years later. My wife and I quickly realized that this was a community we wanted to raise our family in. We found support and belonging with many different individuals and groups in Greater Lafayette. It didn’t take long to realize that many of the people I admire in this community have one thing in common… United Way. While this is a great place to live, we still have residents who are in need of help and many people in this community are stepping up to meet that need – I want to be a part of the solution."
What does the theme "Strong Communities Build Strong Futures" mean to you personally?
"I look at United Way as an investment in the future. The best way to set up our community for a successful future is to start today. I believe that the future of our community is only as strong as our ability to meet the basic needs of those in our community today. I intend to call Lafayette home for the long run and want to do my part to ensure that our community continues to prosper."
In your opinion, what’s the biggest impact United Way has on our local community?
"United Way serves as a resource coordinator as well as a voice for those in our community. United Way serves a critical role in connecting those in need of help with those who are able to help. Resources are not just money….they’re also time and connection."
What do you hope people take away from this year’s campaign?
"Your giving matters-there’s no gift too small. United Way and our partner agencies have an incredible ability to stretch a dollar. Your gift matters and has a larger impact than you could ever imagine."
Do you have a personal story or moment that helped you understand the importance of giving locally?
"Growing up, I volunteered regularly at a local soup kitchen led by Kathleen. Kathleen was the voice for those who were unable to advocate for themselves. She played a big part in shaping the way I think about supporting those in need who are not part of my immediate circle of influence. It’s one thing to help support a friend, coworker, or someone at church when they are down on their luck. It’s another thing entirely to support someone who you may never meet or even lay eyes on."
Was there a moment when you saw the impact of United Way in action?
"Prior to my involvement with United Way, I volunteered at LTHC, LARA, Junior Achievement, and Food Finders. I was consistently moved by the magnitude of the need and the impact that these organizations have on our community. It wasn’t until several years later that I learned that these organizations were all United Way Funded Partners. I continue to be amazed at the broad reach that United Way has on our community."
What are your main goals for this year’s campaign?
"Make it personal. United Way isn’t about raising money. United Way is about helping people. Fundraising isn’t the goal – it is a means to an end. I want everyone to see past the number and understand how their contributions are helping people right here in Greater Lafayette. Everyone can play a part in meeting the needs of our community. No gift is too small."