NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - James A. Jenkins is truly a “Changemaker.”
The North Salem resident and tireless advocate for veterans’ rights received that well-deserved appellation for his “leadership, service, and dedication” in February.
U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and staff hosted a Black History Month event in Rockland County at which more than 20 “Changemakers” – including Jenkins -- from the Lower Hudson Valley were honored for “doing essential things for our community.”
“It was my privilege to recognize these individuals who are working towards Dr. King’s dream of a blessed community where we are all judged by the content of our character,” the congressman said in a social media post.
Nominated for the recognition by Nzingha Milanes, chair of the town’s Republican Committee, Jenkins was unable to attend the ceremony in person. His framed proclamation now holds pride of place in his home.
Thanking Lawler “for understanding what changemakers are,” Jenkins said he appreciated the recognition.
“I was proud to nominate Mr. Jenkins for being a changemaker in the veterans community,” said Milanes, praising Congressman Lawler for issuing “this wonderful proclamation for Black History Month.”
Among Jenkins’ many achievements and contributions over the past five decades it listed were the Vietnam-era veteran’s 21-year tenure as a member and past officer of the American Legion, where he demonstrated “commitment to those who have served our nation”; and his current role as COO of First Approach EA Worksite Wellness LLC, which works with businesses to support “the health and well-being of wage-employed veterans.”
Lawler declared that Jenkins’ efforts have “transformed lives” and strengthened communities across the region and that “his leadership, compassion, and lifelong commitment to making a difference exemplify the spirit of a true changemaker.”
Jenkins is a “counselor emeritus” with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS); a fellow and board-certified expert with the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress; a certified emergency responder with the National Center for Crisis Management; and a certified (now retired) wellness practitioner.
He also earned his stripes as an avid volunteer.
From 1967 to 1972, he was a patrolman with the Auxiliary Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York, assigned to the 24th precinct.
Jenkins studied health promotion at, and graduated from, New York University in 1992.
Having served in the U.S. Army, Jenkins joined the American Legion in 2003. From 2010 to 2013, he was third and second commander of his post and is currently its service officer, supporting disabled veterans and employee engagement.
He was a noncommissioned officer and behavioral health counselor from 2004 to 2013 with the New York Guard, the state defense force that works with the National Guard.
Jenkins was assigned to the 244th Medical Unit at Camp Smith in Peekskill where he trained for disaster relief and was qualified as an instructor.
“After 9-11, I said to myself: ‘If it happens again, I want to be in,'” Jenkins recalled.
From 2006 to 2014, he was involved in cyber support and training (Prevention IT) with InfraGard, a national nonprofit that serves as a public-private partnership between U.S. businesses and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, from 2006 and 2014.
He is a consultant on civil rights and social action matters for the Westchester County Bar Association.
When not working or volunteering, he enjoys jazz and classical music.
On a Mission
Based in White Plains, First Approach EA Worksite Wellness LLC’s mission is “to provide worksite wellness support under the banner of employee engagement for wage-employed veterans and small businesses.”
Jenkins calls it a “social enterprise” company.
It notes that 2022 data shows that there are 8.56 veterans employed in the United States.
Businesses interested in participating can call 914-861-2376, email firstapproachwellness@gmail.com, or visit the website www.pickaveterantotreat.com.
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