“You are a true success once you’ve helped others to become successful.” -Jordan P. Ferrarini

His Nominators Say:

Jordan Ferrarini, founder of Trades for a Difference—a Philadelphia-based 501(c)(3) that focuses on building community wealth through education, blight removal, and community restoration—works to provide construction training and entrepreneurial learning for young men and women from under-resourced communities throughout Philadelphia as tangible pathways into skilled trade opportunities, while developing civic responsibility.

Jordan Ferrarini involves his family—his nephews and his two sons—in opportunities to do good and to connect with people, and he has invested so much time, heart, and energy into something that truly is about helping others get a leg up. He doesn’t have much time for vacations. He might miss a game or school event now and then. He could be earning more money by focusing solely on doing more trades work himself. But what he does have is a vision, passion, and a drive to show those he loves what a real dad—a true family man—is.

Get To Know Jordan

What is a favorite quote that inspires you?

“Use me, God. Show me how to take who I am, who I want to be, and what I can do, and use it for a purpose greater than myself.”–Dr. Martin Luther King

How do you find balance?

I find balance by keeping God and family at the center of everything I do. No matter what is going on in my busy life, I stop and I find time for them. They are the fuel to my fire and my peace of mind. I never lose sight of that.

If you could go back in time, what is some parenting advice would you give yourself the day your first child was born?

I would tell myself to always remember to be patient and understand that kids will be kids. As much as you want everything to be perfect for your children, there will be bumps and bruises along the way. So just focus on enjoying the ride.