The SORBA Executive Committee and Staff are proud to welcome our new Development Director, Jen Flavin, to the team!
Jen Flavin is a Development Professional joining SORBA with over 15 years’ experience in the nonprofit world. She has organized events, managed public relations campaigns, and loves researching and writing grants. She has worked in industries including affordable housing, refugee resettlement, disaster response, disease-specific causes, and mental health. Because of her love for the outdoors, she is looking forward to transitioning these skills to the outdoor industry.
Jen holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Grant Writing Certification from the University of Tennessee, as well as an Undergraduate Degree in Journalism/Public Relations. She also has over 13 years of experience as a Ski Patroller in North Carolina, where you can find her at Cataloochee in the wintertime.
Upon taking up mountain biking around ten years ago, Jen was immediately drawn in by the friendliness and inclusivity she experienced on her local trails in Woodstock, GA. From there, she was hooked. Always seeking an adventure, Jen and her husband have taken many mountain biking trips, from traveling the Southeast to venturing up to Whistler, BC. Recently Jen has been reminded of the camaraderie and sense of community that this sport extends to beginners and experts alike during her rides with her two sons, ages 6 and 8. Riders of all abilities have given her sons encouragement on the trail as they navigate the terrain.
She is excited about the opportunity to explore more of SORBA’s trails and meet as many mountain biking supporters as possible. She’s also thrilled to see that her hometown in Tennessee has been benefiting from nearby trails, thanks to Upper Cumberland SORBA, where she still visits friends and family often.
Jen loves taking her family on RV road trips to check out new trails and other adventures. In addition to mountain biking and skiing, you can find her trail running, hiking, kayaking, camping, stargazing and gardening. She believes that being outside as often as possible makes people happier and less stressed, which positively impacts every aspect in life. She’s excited to help move SORBA’s vision forward, with more trails for more people and increased support for outdoor spaces.
In her new Development role, Jen is most looking forward to collaborating with the awesome people in SORBA, raising funds for trails, and partnering with the dedicated volunteers and staff who make our organization great. And don’t be afraid to reach out. Jen is here to help SORBA and our chapters, collaborating in efforts to move trail projects forward. She believes that everyone deserves access to the outdoors, and we couldn’t agree more. Join us in welcoming Jen to the team!
To contact Jen, email jen.flavin@sorba.org
