Jennifer Grace Kendrick serves as the Community Development Coordinator for the Town of Pike Road, a role she has held since October 2022. In her position, Kendrick leads a team responsible for planning and producing more than 100 events and programs each year for the town, working in collaboration with local partners and civic organizations. Her passion is rooted in creating meaningful opportunities that allow the community to connect, build pride in where they live, support local businesses and organizations and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Kendrick considers her greatest career accomplishment to be the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the town she loves, watching the community engage and enjoy the impact of her work. Outside of her professional role, Kendrick is deeply involved in Pike Road through a variety of personal and civic commitments. She enjoys supporting the program and young men her husband coaches, working with the Pike Road Arts Council, serving as a member of Les Dames, participating in Fort Dale Academy alumni activities and newly serving as a DYW host family.

Key to Success: I’ve found that always showing up has led to much of my success. This has allowed me to gain experiences, build relationships and consistently support the people and efforts in front of me. That openness has shaped both my growth and my network in meaningful ways.

Guilty Pleasure: Needlepointing!

High School Superlative: I was voted Most School Spirit!

Childhood Aspirations: Growing up, I always loved being part of celebrations and community events my parents helped coordinate, which led me to a life of community service at a young age and a passion for bringing people together. Fast forward to high school, when I became a Camellia Girl for the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce, which took event planning to a new level by showing me how events can impact community development and engagement. From there, I knew I wanted to do work that centered around people, ideas and creating meaningful experiences within a community.

First Job: My first job was with the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce which felt like the next step in a story that started much earlier. From growing up around community events to serving as a Camellia Girl, the Chamber showed me how those experiences translate into meaningful work that brings people together.

Best Advice: If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.

Biggest Influence Personally & Professionally: Without a doubt, my parents have been the greatest influence on my life, personally and professionally. Community service was never a question in our family; it was a given, and we were always involved in school, church and civic activities. Give back to your community and to others and you are the one who will be blessed!

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