Bringing Unmatched Experience and Vision to Advance
Racial Justice and Community Empowerment Across Washington State
Seattle, WA, November 1, 2024 – The Communities of Concern Commission (Commission)
proudly announces the appointment of Drayton Jackson as its new Executive Director. Mr.
Jackson, a long-time champion for marginalized communities, brings a wealth of experience in
poverty alleviation, educational reform, and policy advocacy. As Executive Director, Drayton
Jackson will provide visionary leadership and day-to-day management of the Commission’s
operations to advance its mission of supporting communities most impacted by systemic racism
and empowering Black, Indigenous, and communities of color (BIPOC) across Washington
State.
Drayton Jackson’s journey is marked by resilience and dedication to dismantling economic and
social barriers. His two-decade experience with homelessness motivated him to become an
influential advocate and strategic leader in creating solutions to support vulnerable populations.
Drayton’s work has had a statewide impact as co-chair of Governor Jay Inslee’s Poverty
Reduction Work Group and a leader in developing Washington’s 10-year plan to eliminate
poverty. His extensive background includes promoting father involvement in early childhood
education, a former elected official on Central Kitsap School District Board of Directors where he served as president, and founding the Foundation for Homelessness and Poverty Management, which earned recognition
as Greater Kitsap Chamber Nonprofit of the Year in 2022.
“Stepping into this role with the Communities of Concern Commission is a true honor,” says Jackson. “The Commission’s mission and values of racial justice, collective liberation, and community-driven development are essential in addressing the disparities facing BIPOC communities in Washington. I’m deeply committed to amplifying our collective voice and driving lasting, positive change across our state.”
The Commission was established in 2008 by organizations dedicated to serving BIPOC
communities disproportionately impacted by poverty, including Catholic Community Services
of Western Washington, El Centro de la Raza, First Place School, Seattle Indian Health
Board, and SeaMar Community Health Clinics. Since then, it has grown to include 24
nonprofit member organizations and was officially organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in
2019. The Commission’s primary focus is to support BIPOC communities by securing public and
private financing to develop affordable housing and other critical facilities. Through its work, the
Commission aims to foster healthy and vibrant local economies and build intergenerational wealth within communities often overlooked in Washington’s economic growth.
Mr. Jackson’s extensive experience and connections will enable him to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and advocate for policies that support equitable development and community self-determination across Washington.
The Commission’s executive team and Board extend their gratitude and trust in Drayton’s ability to lead the organization into its next chapter. Together, they look forward to advancing the Commission’s mission to “love, serve, and lift” BIPOC communities and make strides toward a more inclusive and just Washington State.
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About the Communities of Concern Commission
The Communities of Concern Commission is a coalition of nonprofit leaders committed to uplifting Black, Indigenous, and communities of color throughout Washington. Grounded in racial justice, collective liberation, and community belonging values, the Commission addresses economic disparities and supports self-determined community growth. Our vision is to create a Washington where every community can thrive equitably.