Grant Jackson

Born in New York, Grant Jackson received a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology from Plattsburgh State University. His course work had an emphasis on medical anthropology specifically related to disabilities across cultures.

Grant started his career in Western Alaska as the regional coordinator for an agency similar to Strive called Hope Community Resources. His first position there was as a Direct Service Provider intern at a group home. He was eventually hired as the Regional Coordinator for the organization. He gained a tremendous amount of experience with both case management and direct services. In his role there he was fortunate to be able to travel all over Western Alaska visiting different Yupik Eskimo villages.

Just before coming to Strive Grant worked for the Mesa County Department of Human Services as Director of Adult Services. He oversaw adult protective services, long term care Medicaid case management, as well as the area agency on aging and the Aging Disability Resource Center (ADRC).

One of the driving forces behind Grant’s move to Strive was his desire to get back to working on behalf of people with developmental disabilities. Growing up his best friend’s sister had Down syndrome and he saw the difficulties and injustices she faced at school and in the community. He knew then, that he wanted to be in a helping profession.

In both Alaska and Colorado Grant has worked on different governor-appointed committees addressing issues related to traumatic brain injury, vocational rehabilitation, special education, and aging issues. Grant considers himself a good collaborative problem solver. He’s able to do this by building trust and confidence within organizations.

A father of two young children Grant enjoys the Grand Valley for being a home base for activities such as mountain biking, skiing, and hiking. He also enjoys digging up fossils, rockhounding, and plays drums for several bands in town.

Something people might not know about Grant is that he is obsessed with synthesizers and effects pedals and really likes to make weird noises with them.