Sinclair Ceasar III (he/him) Gresham, OR ’09-10
Fifteen years ago, Sinclair served as a Jesuit Volunteer in Gresham, Oregon. His community of seven stays in touch, there for each other for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions.
What impact did your years as a Jesuit Volunteer have on your future? They taught me the importance of values and how they influence where you spend your time. I learned that I’m a servant leader at heart, I like to serve with and for the people. So, I’ve continued to position myself where I can make a direct impact on the people I work with and for.
What practice or wisdom did you gain as a JV that you still integrate into your daily life today? Meditating and slowing down. I’ve always prayed but JVC Northwest taught me how to slow down and notice the words I’m praying. I’m thankful for the Jesuits that taught me that.
How have you contributed to the common good since being a JV? My life’s work is to help people unlearn mental health shame through storytelling. Living with my own diagnoses and having suffered my own challenges, I know the power of hearing someone else say “I’ve been there and I know how hard it was to go it alone.” I’ve also had the pleasure of mentoring college students from all backgrounds.
What do you do now, 15 years later? I worked in higher education as a crisis manager, academic advisor, and career advisor. Currently, I own a workplace mental health company here in San Antonio. We’re excited to launch our men’s retreats soon and I’m glad to be providing support in a much-needed area.
What advice do you have for someone considering a year of service with JVC Northwest? It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It got me outside my comfort zone, especially as a black man, embracing the outdoors, adapting to a new lifestyle, and learning more about what I stand for. What helped me was following my curiosity, talking to FJVs, doing my research, and taking the interview process seriously.
“I learned that I’m a servant leader at heart” – Sinclair Ceasar III
The ’09-10 Gresham Community at their Orientation
