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Meet Your Neighbor: Meet The Neighbor – Jeffrey R. Gordon
By Callie Thomas
“In this life we cannot always do great things. We can only do small things with great love.”
-Mother Teresa
Life can take you in many directions. Take 89074 resident Jeffrey Gordon, for instance. He’s been in leadership roles throughout his career, from being the General Manager of a local radio station to the President and CEO of an outdoor advertising company. He’s also been at the helm of a professional basketball team both in Wyoming and in Las Vegas, and for the past fifteen years he has been serving as the President and CEO of the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF). In each of these positions, he has had an opportunity to meet and work with many people throughout the community, including industry leaders, politicians, athletes, parents, students and others. But it’s his work with the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation that has made the most profound impression of all. What he’s learned and has since shared with those around him is that real courage does not always roar. It takes courage to continually take the path least taken to make a difference, and it’s quite another form of courage to do it with grace, dignity and selflessness.
Jeffrey Gordon has served on a number of boards and supported many charities including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. He continues to be drawn to organizations that assist special needs children, so the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation was an inspired choice. This husband and father of five children is passionate about helping others that have not been able to help themselves. He believes strongly that a positive attitude can be the catalyst in creating positive outcomes and encourages that mantra in others. Gordon talks about his indelible experiences through the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, his cherished accomplishments and why there’s always time for a ride on his Harley.
What is the most influential experience you can recall at the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation?
“I’ve been involved for over fifteen years, so I could share hundreds of experiences. Like the young man who struggled for the first ten years of his life not knowing a truly healthy day. He wanted to come one more day to Camp Cartwheel, our three night camp experience designed to help children with cancer or other critical illnesses, as well as their siblings, enjoy time away from the stress and hospitals they endure on an ongoing basis. I had the privilege of driving him to camp even in his much weakened state. We talked about his life and love and gratitude for his parents and all those who loved him. When I drove him home, he said he had the greatest day of his life. At that moment, it reminded me of the heartfelt quote that courage is a quiet voice at the end of the day that says I will try again tomorrow. The young boy passed just two weeks later and I will never forget the lesson that I learned that day.”
What drives you to succeed in life?
“I feel every experience we go through is to prepare us to help someone else. I also strongly believe in maintaining a positive attitude. A positive outlook can cause a chain reaction of events that can create extraordinary results.”
You have received many distinguished honors for your efforts in the community.
“I am very proud of the awards which have been a team effort in helping to make things happen. The Citizen of Distinction Award was presented by the Mayor. I have also received the Philanthropist of the Year Award, the Toastmaster International Award for Leadership and Service and recently the key to the city, which was presented by Mayor Carolyn Goodman.”
What makes you most proud?
“Being a good father, helping others and living a healthy lifestyle.”
Does that include de-stressing with your Harley?
“I love to ride my bike and go on long trips. I continually surprise others when they see me in my leathers.”
