Meet Jamie Almond!

Jamie Almond

Before joining the StepUp Durham team, I was working at a community college as a Human Resources Specialist. While this was great work, I desired a more fulfilling career. I was aware that StepUp Durham was looking for a Development Coordinator. From my work with StepUp Ministry in 2014 to 2017, I knew this would be the meaningful position I was seeking. 

Why do I love StepUp?

For me, it’s personal.  I’m a 2013 graduate of the program. I know what StepUp can offer. StepUp Durham gives hope - the hope and opportunity to obtain a livable wage job through hard work. 

Accountability from a community of people who truly care is another important piece of the program. A person expands a network of employers through StepUp, but real friendships are created for life. 

I started as the Development Coordinator for StepUp Durham on February 10, 2020. The Impact Luncheon was our next big event, and my first for the year. This event was scheduled to take place at the Durham Armory April 21st, with a goal to raise $90,000. Then COVID-19 hit our country and plans changed quickly. 

IMPACT2020 became the first-ever virtual event for StepUp Durham. There was a lot of video content created for our e-newsletters, as well as videos from the board and staff, motivational videos from myself, and the IMPACT2020 Virtual Event 12 minute video that went out April 21st through all social media sites. 

Thanks to all of that hard work and the generosity from our community, StepUp Durham raised $91,655.00 to assist those we serve every single day! This money ensures that these individuals will continue to have the opportunity to obtain livable wage employment. 

Another amazing thing about the work being done during this time of national crisis is that eight participants who graduated from Jobs Week have obtained employment in April at $11.50 per hour, and two so far in May. Wow!

My future plans for StepUp Durham is for more people know who we are and about the important work being done every day, to help spread our message of hope and opportunity across our community.  

Jamie Almond