NBA Welcomes Jordan Bles as Director of Development
Jordan Bles
The National Benevolent Association (NBA) of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) calls Jordan Bles to serve as Director of Development, beginning February 27, 2017.
Jordan Bles comes to the NBA most recently from Church World Service, where he served as a Community Engagement Specialist based out of Des Moines, IA. Covering a four-state area in the Midwest, he cultivated a growing volunteer and donor base, managing a fundraising portfolio of $600,000 from churches and communities through CROP Hunger Walks, special offerings, and kit collections. His previous experience includes two political campaigns in Kentucky that included development efforts; Partners for Youth in Lexington, KY; and National Council of Churches and Church of the Brethren in Washington, D.C.
Bles serves as a board member for On Earth Peace, a community of practice for justice and peace in New Windsor, MD. He holds degrees from Bridgewater College, American University, and Wesley Theological Seminary, where he is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue.
“A community of compassion and care is what the church, in all its forms, is at its best,” says Bles. “I love NBA’s vision of creating and supporting these communities that are expressions of the church at its best.”
In his new role as NBA Director of Development, Bles will work with NBA Development leadership and the broader staff to help realize NBA’s philanthropic goals through a comprehensive development strategy, including annual fundraising, major gifts, endowed and legacy gifts, grants and foundations, and recognition and stewardship.
“Our work, as the NBA today, is about sharing the stories of Disciples health and social service ministries and inviting people to give, support, and connect in meaningful ways to the compassionate work that is being done. Jordan’s experiences and skills will absolutely help strengthen our efforts to do this,” shares Rev. April Lewton, NBA Vice President for Development and Marketing.
“Jordan brings a breadth of experience, energy, and passion for the NBA’s mission that will serve the development and marketing team very well,” reflects Bob Cooper, NBA Trustee and Chair of the Board’s Development and Marketing Committee. “As the NBA seeks to grow the circle of friends who can help increase our ability to meet the needs of people receiving support through NBA services and partnerships, he joins a team truly committed to serving ‘the least of these.’”
One of Bles’ first areas of focus will be supporting NBA’s development efforts for the upcoming Disciples Mission Fund Easter Special Offering, which is often collected on April 9 and 16, 2017, in local congregations. We welcome you to learn more about the Easter Special Offering: What ministries do your gifts support? Are there stories or resources available for a stewardship moment? Visit nbacares.org/DMF.
About the National Benevolent Association
The National Benevolent Association (NBA) serves as the health and social service general ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The NBA partners with local congregations, regional and general ministries, and a variety of Disciples-related health and social service providers. The NBA initiates, incubates, and connects partner ministries and organizations that provide direct care to those in need.
