Nonprofit Board Member of the Year: Jordan Gibson

Jordan Gibson says her childhood informed her work with nonprofits.

Growing up in a family of seven, Gibson says financial worries were the norm, despite living in a loving and compassionate household.

“Things were really tight, and housing wasn’t always something that we had a lot of faith in,” she says. “We had to really lean on the people in our community.”

That idea of members of the community coming together to support those in need continues to resonate with Gibson, and it’s one of the reasons she’s an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity of Springfield, Missouri Inc. Involved with the organization for a decade, Gibson is a board member who served a one-year term as president ending in July.

“I’m in a position where I can offer some of the help that was once offered to me,” she says. “Supporting Habitat means more than building homes; it’s about building hope, fostering stability and transforming lives right here in our backyard.”

Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Chris Tuckness says Gibson is an admirable board leader.

“She truly embodies the drive and passion to get the job done with no excuses, only solutions,” Tuckness says. “She has an uncanny way of patiently assessing each situation and working through solutions. That support has been invaluable to me as the executive director. I can’t begin to share how I have been honored to work with Jordan as our board president.”

Among her work on the board, Gibson has implemented future-proofing solutions by “strategically mapping a plan for future board presidents to have an easy, workable plan for the growth and success of our affiliate,” Tuckness adds.

“She is truly one of the strongest, most mature leaders I’ve had the privilege of working with,” Tuckness says of Gibson.

Gibson, who is currently serving as vice president of the Harmony House Young Professionals Board, takes her passion for people to the workplace, as well.

As mission ambassador for The Vecino Group, Gibson says her job is to make sure that all company decisions support its mission: “To use our powers for the greater good, creating purpose driven developments that impact lives and enhance communities.

“We actually live and breathe our mission. If a deal doesn’t support our mission, doesn’t help the community, we just simply won’t do it,” Gibson says.

What is your elevator pitch for someone to support your cause?
“Safe, stable and permanent housing is the foundation for human flourishing – a place where our neighbors, friends and families can truly live their best lives.”
—Jordan Gibson