Vice President of Community Services

Jackie Boehnlein is the Vice President of Community Services at Step Forward. Jackie provides strategic leadership and oversight for Step Forward's Personal Development program, including the agency's Neighborhood Opportunity Centers, the Professional Development programs and services, and Step Forward's Home Energy Assistance Program.​

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Jackie brings more than 20 years of experience in the fields of human services and higher education. Her career includes significant achievements and leadership roles that demonstrate her commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families in underserved communities. 

Since 2007, Jackie has been an integral part of the Community Action movement, holding various positions, including Director of Planning and Organizational Development, Chief of Staff, and ultimately served as the President and CEO of the Lorain County Community Action Agency (LCCAA) since 2012. During her tenure at LCCAA, she led an agency that provided critical crisis and empowerment services to low-income residents in Lorain County, Ohio. While President and CEO, she introduced the innovative internal referral program, Star Service, which enhanced communication between program staff, ensured timely responses to customers and simplified the application process for clients.  

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Jackie's expertise extends to quality management and continuous improvement, evident through her roles as a Community Action Pathways peer reviewer, Academic Quality Improvement Program peer reviewer, and Ohio Partnership for Excellence peer reviewer. She holds certifications as a Quality Manager (ASQ-QM) with the American Society for Quality and as a Self-Management Group Performance Coach, focusing on maximizing the results of high-effort individuals and teams. She holds a master’s in business administration degree and a Bachelor of Organizational Management degree from Tiffin University, where she graduated with highest honors.