2024 marks a significant milestone for Opportunity Village and longtime volunteer Jen Jenkin.
Jen began her volunteer journey at the tender age of 10, passing out candy canes in the Magical Forest alongside her father who portrayed Santa. Since 2005, Jen has been a dedicated True Blue volunteer at Opportunity Village, contributing over 20 hours per week to the organization year-round. In October, Jen further displayed her commitment to Opportunity Village by accepting an elected position on the Opportunity Village board of directors, becoming the organization’s first board member representing individuals with disabilities.
“It’s an honor to represent people with disabilities, because now they can have a voice not only though programs and services, but also through people higher up,” said Jen. “I am hoping I can make a difference in the role, making it easier for people with disabilities to have a voice in the meetings.”
Before joining Opportunity Village, Jen volunteered for other organizations in Las Vegas, including the City of Las Vegas before she was drawn to Opportunity Village’s inclusive atmosphere and its commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. With over two decades of service at OV, she has become an integral part of the community, sharing her passion for giving back in an unwavering dedication to the organization.
“I’ve had a lot of great opportunities, and I attended college, and I want to show the people we serve that just because you are disabled doesn’t mean you can’t do things.” Jen said.
A role model for the people within the Opportunity Village community, Jen is exceptionally thrilled to be involved in the nonprofit during the holidays, when her favorite events come to life at the Magical Forest.
“I like all the events we have here and like being a part of as much as I can. I especially love the Magical Forest. It’s beautiful, and my favorite holiday is Christmas, so that intensifies it,” she explained.
Whether it’s the holiday season or just another weekday during the year, Jen shares her passion advocating that the potential for ability and success are accessible to anyone, regardless of their challenges.
“I say ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’ Not everyone has the same strengths and weaknesses, and just because people are disabled doesn’t mean they don’t have other abilities; sometimes you just need to find the right niche that people can tap into to find their own niche to succeed,” said Jen. “Just because you don’t make a lot of money doesn’t mean you’re not a success.”
With her first board meeting under her belt, and an inside look at the organization’s operation, Jen and the OV community are optimistic about the impact she will have on the future of Opportunity Village.
Get to Know Jen:
Q: What is your favorite volunteer project that you’ve worked on at Opportunity Village?
A: The Magical Forest and other events where I’m around other volunteers.
Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of volunteering?
A: I like going to concerts and the movies. I like to cook. During COVID, my dad hired a chef, and I learned from them and from YouTube videos. I recently made pork spare ribs and they were good. My neighbor inhaled them. I also enjoy making spaghetti and casseroles.
Q: What is one thing you can’t live without?
A: Music. It’s how I relax. My favorite music is rock and roll.
Q: If you could pick one superpower what would it be?
A: Invisibility. To be able to be a fly on the wall to see what people really do when I’m not around.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
A: I traveled when I was younger, and went to New Zealand and that was good, but I don’t like to travel because everything is here. Food, culture, and entertainment is all in Las Vegas. If you’re in a wheelchair this is the perfect place to live, because you get it all and the transportation is pretty good here.
Q: What is your favorite part about being a volunteer?
A: I get to be around a bunch of people and make an impact on as many people as I can.
