Jacob Metrick (He, Him, His)

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When Jacob noticed the food kiosk at the Glenview Park District had closed, he imagined something new - a place where people with disabilities could work in a community setting, supported by coaches. He founded Great Potentials, a 501(c)3, and recruited parents and supporters to help fulfill his vision. His plan was to employ Keshet graduates like his sister Sarah, and since its inception, the Perk Center Café has expanded from that goal and employed over 100 people.

Jacob earned the Outstanding Family Member Advocate Award from Arc of Illinois in 2019 for his work, and he continues his involvement with Perk Center Café by serving on the board as the treasurer. He also offers financial oversight, fundraising, and technical experience, and helps other entrepreneurs looking to create similar ventures.

He also enjoys mentoring at work, where his colleagues seek him out for professional and personal advice, and as an alumnus of Magevet, Yale University's Jewish acapella group.

AGE:
30

PRIMARY GIG:
Principal Software Engineer at Hume.ai

ON THE SIDE:
Treasurer/Founder for the Perk Center Cafe

CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
Jason Segel

YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE:
Don't worry about what you can't control.

CHICAGO'S JEWISH COMMUNITY IN 10 YEARS:
Similar to now, except with flying cars!

WHAT IS YOUR NEWFOUND PANDEMIC TALENT OR HOBBY:
Cooking food of all kinds of cuisines