Sharon Jordan has dedicated her professional career and passions toward helping to improve the lives of others. For Sharon, joining the board of Community Advocates in 2012 was a natural choice. The organization’s mission, “To provide individuals and families with advocacy and service to meet their basic needs so they may live in dignity,” aligns seamlessly with her personal values. Sharon has spent more than a decade supporting the work of Community Advocates as a member of the board, and now we’re pleased to announce that she has just begun a term as President of our Board of Directors. In this interview, Sharon reflects on her commitment to service, the impact of Community Advocates, and how you can make positive change in your community.
Advocacy and Relations
“I feel blessed to serve an organization that supports over 47,000 individuals and families each year through programs addressing basic needs, behavioral health, and public policy,” Sharon shared. She is particularly inspired by Community Advocates’ innovative leadership and the dedication of its nearly 200 staff members. Sharon said that she’s motivated to continue her board service because of the programs’ meaningful impact in the lives of those most in need.
Over the past 49 years, Community Advocates has been a lifeline for Milwaukee’s most vulnerable populations, providing resources like domestic violence support, energy assistance, emergency shelter, and access to affordable housing. Sharon noted that the organization’s work has been widely recognized with honors such as the BMO Cornerstone Award at the 25th Annual MANDI Awards in 2024. She added that Community Advocates’ ability to win trust and funding from individuals, corporations, and government agencies demonstrates the organization’s integrity and effectiveness.
Now serving as Community Relations Director at Direct Supply, Sharon has spent nearly 30 years fostering connections and creating impactful programs. “I absolutely love my profession,” she said. Her role involves managing corporate donations, building community partnerships, and designing volunteer opportunities for employees. Sharon’s passion for community relations shines through as she collaborates with organizations and individuals to build healthier, stronger communities.
A Purpose and a Plan
Sharon said that many people can make a difference in the community, most especially by aligning one’s values with an organization’s goals. Sharon encouraged community members to get involved with Community Advocates in numerous ways, including volunteering, donating, joining the Board, or introducing your network to staff and leaders. It’s a good reminder that what we do or give, no matter how small, can have a huge impact in the lives of others. Sharon shared an African Proverb that provides her encouragement every day: “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try going to sleep in a closed room with a mosquito.”
Sharon Jordan’s story is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. Her unwavering commitment to Community Advocates and her professional work at Direct Supply demonstrate how individuals can create meaningful change in their communities. Community Advocates is honored to welcome Sharon Jordan as President of our Board of Directors.
