VOICES of VU: JESS COOPER, VU-PHL DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
2019: Earth Day gardening at Mifflin Square Park
For the Board Member Spotlight this month, we introduce Jess Cooper. Jess is serving as our Director of Public Relations! Read the Q&A below to get to know Jess better!
How did you get involved in VU-PHL?
I am very, very new to VUPHL, having only begun my involvement after applying to be on the board this past fall. Being engaged in and leaving a positive impact on my community is a commitment I have carried with me in every city/state in have lived in. When I discovered the variety of opportunities that VUPHL offered, and what the organization stands for, I knew I had to get involved!
What is your favorite part of volunteering with VU-PHL?
My favorite part about volunteering with VU has, without question, been getting to know the community of individuals that come together each month, bringing out the best in Philadelphia. I love this city and getting to volunteer (and laugh) alongside other social justice oriented young people is extremely rewarding. Every event is unique. Whether it is virtual quizzo, cooking events or completing voter registration calls, there is something for everyone.
Why is giving back so important to you?
One of my favorite quotes, that best illustrates why I choose to engage in community service work, is “the true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” I metaphorically (and sometimes literally) cherish moments where I am able to plant trees for others to enjoy.
Giving back, and the ability to do so, is something I have always valued. #Funfact, Acts of Service is actually my most prominent Love Language (go figure). During my two years as an AmeriCorps member with City Year, it became clear to me that community service and social justice work were things that bring me joy. Creating an environment where people can thrive, while continuing to educate myself in how to best advocate for marginalized communities is a deeply rooted value in my life.
What are you most looking forward to accomplishing as a VU-PHL Board member?
As the Director of Public Relations, I am looking forward to highlighting our community partners, board members and volunteers, in order to acknowledge their efforts in the community. I am also eager to continue promoting future events and looking for new ways to expand the VU-PHL volunteer base.
I am always looking for ways to stay connect the communities that I am involved in. Whether it’s organizing fun fitness/wellness events with Tuck Barre & Yoga to aligning community engagement efforts with SEAMAAC, I love tying my people/communities together toward a common goal: a better Philadelphia
What advice do you have for Philadelphians looking to get more involved in their community?
Doing something outside of your comfort zone and saying ‘yes’ to something new can (and will) open so many doors to opportunities and to friendships! A New Years Resolution I’ve made, and managed to keep, over the last 5 years has been to try something different. Each year these “somethings” have spanned from enrolling in a graduate degree program (*cue sigh of relief on my May. 2020 virtual graduation*), to becoming a certified barre instructor, and most recently applying to the VU board! All of these have been SO rewarding and meaningful to my growth both personally and professionally.
With that said, I would encourage anyone who has considered getting involved, to come to an event! Try it out!
Lastly, what is your favorite local restaurant, and any menu recommendations?
In the spirit of supporting local and small business, I have to give a shout out to my favorite local brewery, Roy Pitz. If you’re into sours, go there immediately.
I would be remiss not to mention my love for Suraya. With a deeply rooted love for all things Middle Eastern, I would eat their hummus every single day if my bank account allowed it.
