Before Jenn became Action Inc.’s Director of Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP/Fuel Assistance), she was once a client herself. Now, years later, that experience still informs the way she approaches her work.  She believes it is her connection with people that has defined her 20-year journey at Action Inc.

Jenn joined Action Inc. in 2006 as a case manager, working one-on-one with clients, helping connect them with vital resources. She later became a Utilities Advocate, a position she held for over 15 years before stepping into the role of Director in 2024.

Despite the change in her role, Jenn has never wanted to put distance between herself and the people she serves. “I never want to lose that client connection. It all circles around that”, says Jenn.

As the Director, Jenn continues to conduct intakes and certifications, participates in community outreach, and makes herself available to clients. She believes that staying connected to the day-to-day work helps her understand what clients are experiencing and ensures that Action Inc. remains approachable. That same philosophy extends to her staff where she sees herself as part of the team.

For Jenn, being a good director also means understanding the ways Action Inc.’s many programs can help someone. She explains that HEAP/Fuel Assistance may be the reason a person first walks through the door, but it can also be the starting point for connecting them with other services and resources.

Jenn recognizes that asking for help can be difficult.  She wants clients to feel comfortable enough to share what they are going through without feeling judged.  “We want to be approachable,” she said. “That’s really important to me.”

After 20 years at Action Inc., Jenn’s role may have changed, but her approach has not. Whether she is working with a client, supporting her staff, or representing Action Inc. in the community, she remains focused on the same thing that brought her here in the first place: helping people.