We have reached a major milestone in our expansion into Southwest Pennsylvania (SWPA). Starting in October 2024, we embarked on a thoughtful process where we worked with local partners to recruit, interview, and select our new SWPA Regional Director. We are eager to share that Jess Grainger has joined the Disability Lead team as our new SWPA Regional Director.
Jess’ work will focus on building partnerships, creating opportunities for diverse leaders, and ensuring that Disability Lead’s mission thrives within the unique landscape of SWPA. His passion for systemic change and disability empowerment is deeply rooted in his own lived experience, and we are thrilled to have him leading the charge for Disability Lead in the SWPA region.
"Hiring Jess and having a local Regional Director in the Greater Pittsburgh area is definitely a moment we are celebrating both as an organization and with our many stakeholders in the Southwest Pennsylvania region. We have worked really hard to gather local input about what’s possible when more people with disabilities are in positions of power and influence, and Jess will help make that vision a reality,” said Emily Blum, Executive Director of Disability Lead. “This moment would not be possible without our many local funders and advisors who have shared our commitment to disability leadership.”
Jess brings a wealth of experience in piloting new initiatives that enhance equitable outcomes in education, mental health, and accessibility, and he will be instrumental in driving our efforts to elevate disability leadership across the region. We are confident that with his deep work rooted in human-centered design, Jess' leadership will have a transformative impact on launching our first -ever chapter. Jess has worked extensively with foundations, nonprofits, and public-private partnerships — contributing to workforce and education initiatives across the country and, most recently, in Pittsburgh.
In addition to adding Jess to our team, we have also engaged a local public relations agency. We are working with TrailBlaze Creative on the launch of the Southwest Pennsylvania chapter. TrailBlaze is an award-winning creative firm that provides project-based and sustained marketing and communications support to organizations dedicated to amplifying community vibrancy. With their local understanding, TrrailBlaze will be a key partner in introducing Disability Lead to the Southwest Pennsylvania region.
Stay tuned for updates as Jess leads our effort to establish Disability Lead’s presence in SWPA. We look forward to working with local partners, stakeholders, and advocates to advance civic engagement and leadership for people with disabilities across the nation.