New Board Member Brings Decades of Leadership and Passion to the Organization’s Mission
Voices of Hope for Aphasia is proud to announce the appointment of Jim Porter to its Board of Directors, marking an exciting new chapter in the organization’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities, amplifying unheard voices, and fostering lasting change across the region.
Jim Porter, a respected leader with a reputation for integrity, innovation, and compassion, joins the Voices of Hope for Aphasia family at a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey. With a career spanning more than three decades across nonprofit management, community development, and advocacy, Jim brings a wealth of experience, a broad perspective, and a deep personal commitment to supporting positive transformation in under-served communities.
About Jim Porter
Jim Porter is a partner with Akerman LLC in Tampa. He concentrates his practice on land use and zoning along with government relations, and focuses on the greater Tampa Bay area. Jim is also the School Board Attorney for Hillsborough County, Florida, the seventh largest school district in the nation. He is board certified by the Florida Bar as an expert in City, County, and Local Government Law. Jim is a past Board Member of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Voices of Hope for Aphasia: Amplifying Impact
Since its founding, Voices of Hope for Aphasia has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift marginalized voices and create platforms for storytelling, advocacy, and action. The organization offers resources, mentorship, and opportunities aimed at building leadership capacity and sparking sustainable change. By welcoming Jim Porter to the Board, Voices of Hope for Aphasia is further strengthening its leadership team and enhancing its ability to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves.
Statement from the Board Chair
We are thrilled to welcome Jim Porter to our Board of Directors. Jim’s wealth of experience and his genuine passion for our mission make him an outstanding addition to our organization. His vision and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to grow and deepen our impact. We look forward to working alongside Jim as we chart the next steps for Voices of Hope for Aphasia.
Jim Porter’s Vision
Jim believes that transformative change is possible when organizations listen to those they serve and work collaboratively to dismantle barriers to opportunity. He is eager to contribute his skills and insights to further strengthen Voices of Hope for Aphasia’s programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts.
Upon his appointment, Jim Porter shared his excitement for joining the team:
It is an honor to become part of Voices of Hope for Aphasia, an organization whose values resonate so deeply with my own. I am inspired by the commitment of the staff, board, and community partners. Together, I know we can drive meaningful change and ensure that every voice, regardless of background or circumstance, is heard and valued.
The Role of Board Members
The Board of Directors at Voices of Hope for Aphasia plays a critical role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, driving innovation, ensuring accountability, and upholding the highest standards of governance. Board members are ambassadors for the mission, advocates for the organization, and stewards of its resources. Jim Porter’s appointment reflects Voices of Hope for Aphasia’s commitment to dynamic and inclusive leadership, as well as its ongoing efforts to build a board that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
Looking Forward: Initiatives and Impact
With Jim Porter’s expertise and guidance, Voices of Hope for Aphasia is poised to expand its impact in several key areas:
- Community Empowerment: Launching new training and mentorship programs to cultivate local leadership and foster collective action.
- Advocacy and Outreach: Building strategic partnerships and amplifying the voices of those who have historically been marginalized or overlooked.
- Resource Development: Enhancing fundraising efforts to secure the resources needed for sustainable programming and capacity-building.
- Organizational Excellence: Continuing to refine governance practices and operational strategies to maximize transparency and accountability.
About Voices of Hope for Aphasia
Voices of Hope for Aphasia reconnects people living with aphasia, in the Tampa Bay area and across the country, with their lives through innovative programs. Our programs:
- enhance quality of life through successful experiences,
- improve the communication accessibility of the community,
- foster communication in groups,
- provide training and tools to improve relationships with family and friends,
- promote collaboration and growth of the aphasia community, and
- educate the public about aphasia.
We are a place where the voices of people living with aphasia are acknowledged. We work to provide the communication bridges that will help people with aphasia do the things that are most important to them and take part in their own life.
A Call to Action
The appointment of Jim Porter signals a renewed commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact at Voices of Hope for Aphasia. The organization invites community members, partners, and supporters to join in welcoming Jim and to engage in the vital work ahead. Being part of this movement means standing together for justice, amplifying unheard voices, and building hope for a brighter future.
For more information about Voices of Hope for Aphasia, our upcoming events, or ways to get involved, please contact us at info@vohaphasia.org or by phone 727.249.1953.
Please join us in welcoming Jim to the Voices of Hope for Aphasia family!