Her Story
About Jessica
Jessica is a passionate community advocate and engagement professional dedicated to expanding access to safe, affordable housing and strengthening communities throughout Illinois. Her commitment to public service is deeply rooted in her own lived experiences growing up to teen parents in substandard housing and relying on government assistance and community support programs. Those early experiences inspired her lifelong dedication to advocating for families facing housing and economic challenges, while helping connect individuals to resources and opportunities that promote stability and self-sufficiency.
Jessica began her career in community organizing in 2017 with Grassroots Campaigns, where she raised funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). After relocating to Illinois, she worked on Democratic political campaigns during the 2018 election cycle before pursuing a career in consumer advocacy. She later earned her paralegal certification from Chicago State University and spent four years at Suleiman Law Firm, focusing on consumer protection law. Throughout her career, she has combined advocacy, outreach, and policy engagement to empower individuals and address systemic barriers affecting underserved communities.
In 2024, Jessica joined Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity as Community Engagement Manager, where she leads volunteer recruitment efforts, develops workforce partnerships, and advocates for housing sustainability initiatives. She has been actively involved in efforts to reform property tax lien sale policies in Illinois and has represented her community at national advocacy events, including Habitat on the Hill in Washington, D.C. Recognized as a rising leader and nominee for the YWCA Northwestern Illinois Promise Award, Jessica continues to build meaningful partnerships and champion policies that create pathways to affordable homeownership and stronger communities. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time at home with her cats and recharging after her busy days serving the community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jessica
01What do you attribute your success to?
My parents' example of perseverance in education. My mom got her GED, bachelor's, and master's. Watching them grow and finish their education prepared me to conquer challenges.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
No one is going to tell you to work less or not work as hard. You have to discover your own benchmarks and boundaries for work-life balance and prioritize yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Have passion for people, all people. Give people grace, support them, and meet them where they are. Show up for others so your circle doesn't get smaller.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is decreased community engagement and bridging communities, with less youth and millennial involvement in volunteering. The biggest opportunity is building coalitions between organizations that share similar ideas and beliefs.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Giving grace and being kind rather than just nice. Kindness makes a direct impact in somebody's life.
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