From Public Safety to Youth Advocacy, Get to Know Matt Jenkins
Matt Jenkins
Welcome, Matt Jenkins, to our Board of Directors! Matt is the Chief of Police in the City of Healdsburg and has spent more than 20 years working in public safety and community service. What really stands out about Matt is his passion for helping young people and families feel safe, supported, and empowered.
His connection to youth goes way back to when he worked as a School Resource Officer. That is where he first teamed up with the Boys and Girls Club to help create opportunities for local kids. He has continued to support youth through leadership roles and even served on the Healdsburg Little League Board.
Matt also holds two master’s degrees, one in Law Enforcement Leadership and the other in Criminal Justice Administration. His work and values line up perfectly with our mission, and we are thrilled to have him on board.
To help everyone get to know Matt a little better, we asked him a few questions. His answers are thoughtful and honest, and give us a great glimpse into who he is and what he stands for.
If you could give your 10-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
"Don't be afraid to fail. Every mistake is a chance to grow. Take more chances, try new things, and trust that you will figure it out as you go. Playing it safe will not teach you as much as stepping out of your comfort zone. The things that feel scary or uncertain often lead to the most rewarding experiences. You do not need to have it all figured out. Just be brave enough to try."
What kind of kid were you?
"I was shy but curious. I loved learning how things worked and was always close by whenever my parents were working on something. Whether it was fixing things around the house, working on a project, or fixing a car, I was there. I did not always speak up, and sometimes I was probably in the way, but I was always watching and taking everything in. Helping out gave me a quiet confidence and taught me that learning by doing is one of the best ways to grow."
What values did your family or upbringing pass on to you that still guide you today?
"Respect and treating people well were core values in our home. I was taught that how you treat others speaks volumes about who you are and that is something I carry with me in everything I do. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, kindness and respect always come first. Those early lessons shaped how I lead, listen, and work with others."
These values are a huge part of why Matt is such a great fit for our board. His approach to leadership is rooted in care, empathy, and a deep respect for others.
We are so happy to have Matt with us and cannot wait to see the impact he will make. His experience, passion, and values are a perfect match for the work we do every day with kids and families.
Show Matt support for his commitment to kids by joining him in giving the gift of Summer Camps to North Bay kids. To donate, head to our Great Summers Start with You page- https://www.bgcsonoma-marin.org/supportcamp