Jelisa Turner appointed director of Henrico’s Department of Outreach and Engagement

Jelisa S. Turner has been appointed director of Henrico County’s newly established Department of Outreach and Engagement, effective Aug. 24.

Turner will direct the agency’s efforts to promote the well-being and resiliency of all county residents; facilitate community outreach and engagement opportunities to ensure departments effectively serve the needs of residents; and oversee the county’s strategy for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB).

The Board of Supervisors established the Department of Outreach and Engagement to streamline and strengthen how Henrico serves residents with diverse needs, including seniors, members of multicultural communities, individuals with disabilities and others. The creation of the department also underscores the county’s commitment to DEIB.

The department took effect July 1 with the start of fiscal year 2024-25 and will initially have a staff of six and a budget of about $670,000. The agency includes employees previously assigned to Human Resources, Public Relations and the Division of Fire overseeing such programs and functions as My Henrico Academy and the Office of the Advocate for the Aging.

Turner previously worked with Henrico Fire as the Community Assistance, Resources, & Education (CARE) Program manager, a role she held since 2020. During her tenure, she created a strategic plan establishing an alternative community-based response model for the county’s emergency services. Additionally, Turner previously served as Henrico’s advocate for the aging, overseeing the office offering services for older adults.

Turner earned a master’s degree in gerontology from the University of Southern California and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Virginia.