Jalen Howard

Jalen Howard joined Washington Water Trust in the fall of 2024. Jalen is deeply committed to personal growth and community impact. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in communication at the University of Washington. His passion for nonprofit work began at a young age when he volunteered alongside his mother at local shelters, distributing food and clothing to families in need. During these moments of connection, Jalen first felt the profound fulfillment that comes from helping others—a feeling that has guided his life ever since.

Over the years, Jalen has had the privilege of working with several nonprofits around the Seattle area, with one of the most transformative experiences being his time at the Center for Multicultural Health. As a Program Coordinator, he led a dedicated group of young people in developing campaigns to combat substance abuse propaganda. It was pivotal for him to watch them grow, find their voices, and take ownership of their message. It reinforced his belief that lasting change only occurs when people are empowered and supported collaboratively. That experience fueled Jalen’s unwavering desire to stay in the nonprofit space, where the focus is on making a real difference, not for personal gain but for the betterment of the community.

Seattle has always been home to Jalen, and he’s developed a deep connection to the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. The waterways evoke a sense of peace and belonging. When he discovered this opportunity with WWT, an organization committed to preserving and protecting the region’s precious bodies of water, he knew it aligned perfectly with his values and vision for a more sustainable, equitable future. Jalen is eager to contribute his passion for community advocacy and communication skills to an organization working to protect what he considers to be one of the most valuable resources in our area.

Outside of his professional and community-focused endeavors, Jalen has diverse interests. He is an avid weightlifter who enjoys participating in mixed martial arts and competing in fighting game tournaments. Reading and traveling are also passions of his, offering him new perspectives and an appreciation for different cultures. A unique aspect of his life is having a twin brother, whose presence has shaped many of Jalen’s experiences and added depth to his journey of personal discovery.