Jasmine Banks
Madison,WI
Summary
Mission-driven nonprofit leader with 15+ years of experience advancing equity, strengthening community partnerships, and designing programs that improve outcomes for youth, families, and underserved communities. Proven record of leading complex initiatives, managing cross-functional teams, and translating community voice into sustainable strategy. Known for compassionate, trauma-informed leadership and deep civic engagement across Madison and Dane County.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Director for Empowerment and Strategic Initiatives
Operation Fresh Start
01.2024 - Current
- Senior director-level leader responsible for strategy, growth, and quality of empowerment programming serving emerging adults ages 16–24.
- Provide strategic oversight for 6+ empowerment initiatives, including DRIVE, Drive to Succeed, Options, CareerScape, CareerPoint, and Resource programming.
- Lead cross-department collaboration to align programs with organizational mission, values, and long-term strategic goals.
- Champion trauma-informed, equity-centered practices that improve participant engagement, retention, and outcomes.
- Strengthen partnerships with community organizations, employers, educators, and funders to expand opportunity pathways for youth.
- Support senior leadership in organizational planning, decision-making, and continuous improvement efforts.
- Key Impact:
- Programs collectively serve hundreds of emerging adults annually, supporting education, employment, and self-sufficiency outcomes.
- Expanded program integration to improve service coordination and participant experience.
Empowerment Programs Manager
Operation Fresh Start
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Led design, management, and evaluation of empowerment programming for low-income, multicultural young adults.
- Supervised four staff and collaborated across teams to ensure consistent, high-quality program delivery.
- Supported outreach, communications, and community engagement efforts to increase program visibility and access.
- Key Impact:
- Strengthened program consistency and participant engagement through data-informed improvements.
- Contributed to organizational growth during a period of increased demand and complexity.
STRIVE Construction, Healthcare & DRIVE Coordinator
Operation Fresh Start
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Developed and supervised classroom and support components of employment training and driver’s license programs.
- Provided individualized mentorship, case management, and transition support into employment and post-secondary education.
- Built strong relationships with instructors, employers, and community partners.
- Key Impact:
- Supported dozens of participants annually in obtaining employment credentials, driver’s licenses, and stable career pathways.
Coordinator of Community Engagement
Community Action Coalition
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Led fundraising, outreach, and public engagement across Dane, Waukesha, and Jefferson Counties.
- Designed and hosted monthly community events to build donor and partner relationships.
- Key Impact:
- Raised $70,000+ for the organization’s first major fundraiser.
- Expanded CAC’s community visibility and donor engagement footprint.
Education
Odyssey Project
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Madison, WI undefined
American Institute of Paralegal Studies
Skills
- Executive & Organizational Leadership
- Strategic Planning & Systems Change
- Community-Centered & Equity-Driven Practice
- Fundraising & Donor Engagement
- Public–Private Partnerships
- Program Design, Scaling & Evaluation
- Board & Commission Leadership
- Team Development & Culture Building
Affiliations
- City of Madison Affirmative Action Commission, Chair (2022 – Present)
- City of Madison MLK Humanitarian Award Commission, Chair (2022 – Present)
- Henry Vilas Zoo Commission, Commissioner (2023 – Present)
- Dane County Community Restorative Court, Peacemaker (2023 – Present)
- City of Madison Board of Canvassers (2024 – Present)
- Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance, Board Member (2024 – Present)
- Rooted LLC, Board Member (2024 – Present)
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County, Program Committee Member (2025 – Present)
- Dane County Parks Commission, Commissioner (2025 – Present)
Timeline
Deputy Director for Empowerment and Strategic Initiatives
Operation Fresh Start
01.2024 - Current
Empowerment Programs Manager
Operation Fresh Start
01.2021 - 01.2024
STRIVE Construction, Healthcare & DRIVE Coordinator
Operation Fresh Start
01.2017 - 01.2021
Coordinator of Community Engagement
Community Action Coalition
01.2015 - 01.2017
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American Institute of Paralegal Studies
Odyssey Project
University of Wisconsin–Madison