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People Ask, What Does Jordan House of Umoja Mean?  Literally translated it means UNITY

This Is What We Stand For...

George Jordan, Executive Director

Highlighting the experience and accomplishments of George Jordan III, the youth advocate, leader, and role model for at-risk youth with over 23 years experience in social work. George has dedicated himself to empowering young people, advocating for their rights, and leading by example. 

Starting in Pittsburg, California, where he was born and raised, George knew early on that he had a passion for mentorship. At the early age of Sixteen, George worked as a summer youth counselor for Pittsburg Leisure Services. George excelled in sports at Pittsburg High, running track and playing football. He went to Portland State University, where he played football and graduated with a bachelor's degree in sociology. His passion for helping the youth only grew stronger after college. He worked in the social services field, mentoring at-risk youth and coaching high school football. George has consistently demonstrated integrity, perseverance, and compassion as a role model through Coaching Football at Los Medanos College for ten seasons. 

George also competed as a professional MMA fighter, brought youth in, and taught them the discipline of the sport. By sharing his own experiences and challenges, he has connected with young people on a personal level, offering guidance and support. He has mentored several athletes/students, helping them set and achieve their goals, both academically, personally, and on the field. His commitment to being a positive influence has been recognized by both peers and the youth he has worked with.

In his leadership roles, he has spearheaded various projects and initiatives to improve young people's lives. With his years of experience working with at-risk youth, George has addressed a critical need within the community and engaged young people in meaningful activities that fostered their growth and development. His ability to inspire and mobilize others has been instrumental in the success of these initiatives. As a youth advocate, George was actively involved as a CASA Worker (Court-appointed Special Advocate), where working to amplify the voices of young people would ensure their concerns were heard. The responsibilities included advocating for youth in Contra Costa County, organizing and leading workshops on mental health, violence prevention, educational opportunities, and civic engagement. Through these efforts, George has helped numerous young individuals gain the confidence and skills to navigate their personal and academic lives successfully.

Throughout his journey, George has collaborated with numerous stakeholders, including educators, community leaders, and policymakers, to advocate for policies and programs that support youth development. His work has been recognized through the Men of Merit award in 2016 for recognition of the work done with foster youth, underscoring his dedication and impact in this field. Even with so much progress, there is still much more to gain so George remains committed to advocating for young people, serving as a role model, and leading positive change initiatives.

George looks forward to the opportunity to continue contributing to the community's betterment by leading in the community with his unique ideas and program here at Jordan House of Umoja.

Lanesha Morris, Supervising Facility Manager                     

Lanesha brings over 23 years of dedicated experience work with youth in her community. She has 15 years experience working in a Group Home/STRTP (Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program) field, specializing in providing essential care and guidance to youth in her community, where she has made an indelible impact. Her journey began 23 years ago, driven by a profound passion for empowering young people and guiding them through challenging circumstances, helping them navigate towards a brighter future. 

Lanesha's commitment to her work is matched only by her unwavering belief in the potential of every youth she encounters. Through her compassion and dedication, she has been instrumental in nurturing countless young lives, empowering young individuals, instilling in them a sense of resilience and optimism. As she finds immense fulfillment in witnessing their transformational journeys with gratitude and hope. Lanesha’s role extends beyond mere caregiving, she is a mentor and a role model, inspiring those around her with her unwavering commitment and compassionate approach. 

Outside of her professional endeavors, Lanesha enjoys spending time with her family and friends and finds solace in nature and traveling, which rejuvenates her spirit and enhances her ability to continue making a meaningful impact in lives of young people.