If we could summarize Jordan, he could be described as a dedicated and compassionate lifelong learner. Jordan Eich is the Board President of Literacy Rochester (LR) and started in this role last July (2024). Learn more about Jordan and his leadership journey at LR!
Jordan first connected with LR about three or four years ago. A previous board member reached out to the company he was working for and asked if anyone was interested in learning more about the organization. Jordan is a financial advisor for a local wealth management company. Having caught his interest, Jordan was drawn to LR’s mission of helping adult learners in the community. So, he decided to jump in and get involved on the board.
Prior to joining the LR board, Jordan had limited experience working with nonprofits, but where he was involved, he was an active participant. Whether it be through fundraising or raising awareness, Jordan always tries his best to help the causes he is a part of. And, last year the board president’s term was nearing an end and applications were soon being accepted. Jordan considered the position but was really encouraged by the former president and other’s that he would be a good fit to lead. Therefore, he submitted his application and now has been serving as board president for over seven months.
When asked about what makes a great leader in a nonprofit organization, Jordan mentioned leading by example and servant leadership. These are guiding ideals that Jordan believes helps everyone and the organization succeed. First, LR operates on the idea that everyone is a volunteer who donates their time and energy to support the cause. Jordan leads by example by actively being involved and making the time to support the board members and staff in the office. One skill that Jordan has improved upon during the first couple months is time management. Between a full-time job, family, and being the board president, Jordan worked on allocating appropriate time to each aspect of his life. It challenged him to manage time more efficiently so he could continue doing and being a part of the things he values. Outside of work and LR, Jordan enjoys spending time with his wife and one-year-old daughter, golfing during the summer months, and travelling to visit family.
“We need volunteers and people willing to give time and resources in order to function as an organization and to serve our community.”
But being board president isn’t all business, a couple favorite memories that Jordan recalled were Brain Game and conversations with Ruth Colvin. He finds it fascinating how Brain Game has evolved since 2001 and how so many local businesses and organizations come together to support LR and play some trivia, “there’s not another event like it.” Moreover, Jordan also mentioned some memorable interactions with Ruth Colvin. He always enjoyed listening to her life story and lifelong commitment to serving those in need.
Upon reflection, Jordan would attest that joining the LR board was the best decision he ever made because of the opportunity to give back all while having an impact on something bigger than himself. He challenges you, fellow reader, to be a part of something where you can put others ahead of yourself. When you’re able to lend a helping hand, “it’s rewarding to see the difference you made when looking back,” said Jordan.
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