Celebrating Changemakers 2022

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting women making a positive impact in our community through a “Celebrating Changemakers” series.

Our next spotlight is Valerie Jacobs, past SDWF President, Board Chair of Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation & Philanthropy Consultant. Valerie was nominated by SDWF President-Elect Shari Miller, who commented “Valerie has had a huge impact on the San Diego community! Valerie stands out as a SDWF Founder and as a 2-year President during a time of great need for leadership in our organization. Additionally, her vision and leadership with the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation has guided the organization to be a nationally recognized community engagement model. I’m sure she has inspired many members in addition to myself with her kindness, sharing and leadership qualities.”

Learn more about Valerie below.

Tell us one fun or surprising fact about you:
I’ve been playing the flute since 5th grade and play in a small community orchestra.

What inspires you?
Seeing residents working to make their community better.

What books would you recommend?
Change Philanthropy by Alicia Korten.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Failure is the greatest teacher of success.

What work are you engaged in to make a positive change in our community?
The Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation has worked along side residents of Southeastern San Diego for over 25 years to help the community thrive. Through our economic development, we have followed a community plan created by residents to provide housing, restaurants, retail, entertainment and conference space. In addition, we support quality education, arts and culture and safety.

Thank you, Valerie, for everything you’ve done to make our organization and community better!

If you would like to stay informed about her work at the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation, check out their website here.