Jorden Nigro recognized statewide as a 2018 Afterschool Superhero
During Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week April 23-27, the Alaska Afterschool Network recognized five amazing afterschool professionals who act as everyday superheroes in our youth’s lives: “These five Afterschool Superheroes have gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure Alaska’s youth have a safe and enriching place to grow and learn during out-of-school time. Join us in celebrating their incredible commitment and passion for our youth.” The City and Borough of Juneau’s own Jorden Nigro was one of the 2018 Afterschool Superhero Awardees! As Youth Development and Services Manager, Jorden leads CBJ’s Zach Gordon Youth Center.
The statewide organization wrote this: “Jorden is an extraordinary community advocate and collaborator for Juneau’s youth, and particular for disadvantaged youth. Through her leadership she has transformed Juneau Parks & Recreation youth services. She has created greater sustainability for the BAM (Body and Mind) middle school afterschool programs by providing the infrastructure and staffing needed to ensure the program’s long-term viability. Jorden has lead efforts to revitalize the Zach Gordon Youth Center to become a hub for youth services by expanding health and counseling services, especially for homeless youth and those who have experienced trauma. Jorden fosters a team approach with staff and community partners to ensure Juneau’s youth are supported and empowered.
“An example of her commitment to youth empowerment, was when a teen came into the Center needing some fairly simple, but right-now services within the community. This teen had tried a number of things as a self-advocate without much response from a local resource. Jorden met with her team, and together they built a side-by-side (not taking over) plan for support. She used her relationships to bring change and response, and role-modeled to the teen real collaboration and self/team advocacy. Jorden is steadfast in leading the Juneau community forward to increase equity, access and resources for young people. Every decision and conversation that she’s a part of comes from a love and respect for childhood and the potential of each young person.”
Jorden was nominated by Walter Majoros, professional colleague; Becky Rush, ROCK Juneau, and Kirk Duncan, outgoing CBJ Parks & Recreation Director.