Penny Jordan

Program Manager - Donated Dental Services (DDS) and Give Kids a Smile © (GKAS)

When I am asked why I am so passionate about the work I do, it’s always an easy answer for me. I am passionate because I know it makes a difference. My paternal grandparents raised my sisters and I and there were times we needed extra support. I was always amazed at the generosity complete strangers showed us and I saw the difference it made firsthand. To “pay it forward”, I started working in the non-profit sector after receiving my master’s degree in Public Administration in 2009. I have had the honor of serving my fellow Virginians since then through the work I have done with the American Red Cross, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging.

At Senior Connections, I served as the Public Guardian Program Director and Care Coordinator for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It didn’t take long for me to learn that many older adults and individuals with disabilities in Virginia are struggling because they are able to afford dental care. I saw the impact it had on their overall health and quality of life. As the Manager for the Donated Dental Services and Give Kids a Smile programs, I have the privilege of supporting Virginia dentists, their staff, and other providers as they graciously donate their time and resources to improve the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities. The impact is huge for each individual we are able to support through our programs and the smiles afterward say it all.