Although our Executive Director, Jennifer Williford, is always in motion, we recently had the chance to sit down with her and reflect on her seven years of leadership at Fisherman’s Mark. As we transition from summer programming into preparations for the winter and holiday season, it felt like the right time to pause and capture her thoughts.
Jenn has guided Fisherman’s Mark through some of the most challenging moments in our history — from a pandemic to a devastating flood — while also building the strong foundation we rely on today. Below, she shares in her own words what this work has meant to her, what she’s learned along the way, and what gives her hope for the future.
Looking Back
What stands out most to you about your time at Fisherman’s Mark?
You just don’t know how strong you are until strong is what you have to be. As an organization we have remained strong through a pandemic, flooding from Hurricane Ida, and of course the inflation over recent years which has increased demand for our programs and services. Professionally, I am so proud of getting this organization through some really tough times.
How has working here changed the way you see the world?
Since coming to Fisherman’s Mark, I see the world so differently. I realize many people are just one paycheck away from losing it all. Families and single moms who work hard but still cannot put food on the table, immigrants balancing work with our ESL classes, neighbors without family support to navigate social services — these are wonderful people in difficult situations. I see things so much clearer now, and I believe our community is better thanks to Fisherman’s Mark.
On Learning and Growth
What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned?
How real these situations are. I was shocked to learn that so many of my own neighbors are in need. I grew up in a middle-class family, and I truly didn’t realize how close to home these struggles could be.
What have program participants taught you personally?
To never judge, and to practice gratitude. Our participants are so grateful for the help we provide, and their gratitude motivates me to work hard, lead, and raise the funds needed to keep serving them.
On Leadership
How has being Executive Director changed you?
I am a better person thanks to this work. I now understand what makes a strong community — and that when we work together, we can take care of our neighbors in need.
What do you worry about most?
I worry for the 1,900 program participants who entrust us to help them. I worry that funding won’t keep up with our growth, and that more people will turn to us as other supports are cut.
What advice would you give your younger self before taking on this role?
I never imagined I could love a job so much or that serving vulnerable populations would be so rewarding. I would tell myself: trust the journey.
On Community and Connection
What would you tell someone who doesn’t understand our community?
Take the time to learn people’s stories. Don’t be quick to judge or make assumptions. Every day I learn something new from our program participants, and their hardships are often beyond what we can imagine.
Has there been a moment that has stayed with you?
One long-time participant had been homeless, living in her car. We helped her get housing. Later, during the pandemic, she donated her Economic Impact Payment back to Fisherman’s Mark. That moment reminded me: it’s never a handout, it’s a hand up.
What gives you hope when challenges feel overwhelming?
Our donors, volunteers, and staff. Thanks to all of them, I know we will get through anything.
Looking Ahead
What do you envision for Fisherman’s Mark in the years to come?
I would love to say we’ll be out of business because food insecurity no longer exists. The reality is that we’re preparing for future growth through strategic planning, so we can keep meeting the needs of our neighbors.
What do you wish more people knew?
That our program participants truly are our neighbors — from Lambertville, Stockton, New Hope — working in food service, hospitality, landscaping, the arts, and more. And that Fisherman’s Mark doesn’t receive government funding. We rely on community support: donations, volunteerism, advocacy, and awareness.
Jenn’s reflections are a reminder that Fisherman’s Mark is more than programs and numbers — it is people: neighbors who need support, neighbors who give support, and neighbors who make it all possible.
As we look ahead to the months to come, we are grateful for Jenn’s steady leadership, and for the volunteers, donors, and partners who join us in this work. Together, we continue to strengthen the community we all call home.