Jackie Mendoza

Jackie Mendoza has extensive experience in sports programming and community building for individuals with intellectual disabilities, currently serving as the Region I Director of Sports and Area Director for Special Olympics Illinois since June 2010. In these roles, Jackie coordinates year-round programming in sports, health, and education while also managing fundraising efforts to ensure free access to services for athletes in the Eastern Prairie area. Previous positions include Teen Reach Coordinator at Shawnee Adolescent Health Center, Child Advocate at The Women's Center, and Recreation Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale. Jackie holds a Master's degree in Recreation Administration and a Bachelor's degree in Merchandising/Marketing, both from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.