JB
Director of Outreach & Support Programs
Pronouns: he/him
jb@sidebysideva.org
“I feel proud to be here and hopeful for the future we can build together when youth have the support they need.”
Who is JB?
A native Virginian who’s been living in Nashville for the last 20 years, JB has committed his life and career to serving vulnerable populations, a passion he is thrilled to continue as he falls in love with Richmond. Outside of work, JB is defined by his role as a partner and father. He’s an avid sports fan and a die-hard Everton FC supporter who loves catching matches with friends, staying active, and exploring Richmond’s local food scene and hiking trails. His personal world is a mix of the great outdoors and curated collections, from a sizable record library to meaningful tattoos shared with family and community. Whether he’s hitting local record shops, hiking, or settling for another rewatch of Supernatural, JB finds his greatest joy in the connections he builds with the people and the city around him.
JB’s Experience
With 15 years of experience dedicated to youth and family-centered advocacy, JB brings deeply rooted expertise in designing trauma-informed and equity-focused programming. His career has been defined by leading multidisciplinary teams to dismantle systemic barriers, whether by coordinating high-stakes crisis interventions for individuals experiencing housing instability or supervising large-scale service initiatives. JB is equipped to serve LGBTQ+ youth through a proven track record of creating affirming spaces—ranging from co-sponsoring high school GSAs to developing safety protocols and peer-led support curriculums. By combining clinical social work foundations with a passionate commitment to anti-oppressive practices, he ensures that every young person has access to a community that not only understands their specific needs but actively celebrates their identity.
Role at Side by Side
As a Director at Side by Side, JB is dedicated to creating supportive, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families not just in the greater Richmond area, but throughout Virginia. JB’s work is rooted in the belief that every young person deserves a community where they feel seen, safe, and empowered to lead. Whether he’s collaborating with direct service staff to enhance programs or developing valuable partnerships in the community, JB’s focus remains on fostering continuity of care, meaningful connection and helping Side by Side’s programs thrive.