Influential Woman · Non profit founder community center with a focus on homelessness prevention and solutions
Jessica Luster
Nonprofit Founder, --
Somerset, KY
Her Story
About Jessica
I founded my nonprofit community center after losing my younger brother John to a drug overdose. I wanted to create a place where people could get help with recovery and immediate needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Before this, I was Director of Social Services at a long-term care facility and worked as a Family Support Specialist for Kentucky's Department of Community-Based Services determining eligibility for federal benefits. Coming from rural Kentucky and having lived through extreme poverty and domestic violence myself makes this work especially meaningful.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jessica
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is not to burn bridges, to keep all relationships in a positive light, and to build upon your network everywhere you go. Always use opportunities to get to know people, whether waiting on an elevator or in a hospital waiting room, and leave them better than you found them.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You only have one life and that life is meant for you to live. If you have a dream in your heart, especially a dream to help people, by all means chase that dream. Do your research, know what you're talking about, and then go for it. If you see barriers and obstacles, list those out and find ways to find solutions. Be patient and faithful and believe in yourself, and all things are possible.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is public misconceptions about people in need and people experiencing homelessness, fighting the stigma. Homelessness isn't one-size-fits-all; it affects veterans, elderly, families with children, and working citizens, especially in rural Kentucky.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Always make sure that I'm thankful to God for the way that He's blessed me. I feel absolutely grateful for every donation. In the office, kindness is our number one thing. We want to make sure our neighbors are always treated with respect, referring to them as Mr. Jones or Mrs. Smith, acknowledging they are our brothers and sisters in the community.
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