Jessie Kimber, Economic Development Director and military affairs liaison for the City of Colorado Springs, was inducted today, May 7, as the 2024 Fort Carson Good Neighbor by Maj. Gen. David Doyle, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division. Kimber was selected to join this prestigious group because of her unwavering support and devotion to Fort Carson soldiers, families, and civilians.
“I am humbled and honored to join the ranks of those who have given so much to our military community here in Colorado Springs, the best hometown in the Army,” said Kimber. “This jacket does not represent my work alone, but the work of so many nonprofits and volunteers who show up for military families and servicemembers everyday. Our work is never done, and together we will continue to serve our incredible military community.”
Kimber, a 24-year Navy veteran, has had a significant impact on the lives of soldiers and their families by implementing several military-centric initiatives. She was instrumental in hosting or participating in over 140 career workshops and hiring fairs, assisting more than 220 military spouses and family members in Colorado through a partnership with the Fort Carson Employment Readiness Program. Kimber also leads community outreach projects to assist veterans transitioning from the military into civilian life while providing crucial resources to succeed outside of the military. Her work has strengthened the relationship between Fort Carson and the surrounding areas.
Since 1978, there have been 48 Good Neighbor inductees. The last City of Colorado Springs’ employee to be inducted was Colorado Springs Police Chief Pete Carey in 2013. The Fort Carson Good Neighbor program is designed to recognize one civilian each year from the surrounding communities who, through his or her efforts, enhances the quality of life for our Soldiers and their Families. The newly inducted Good Neighbor is invited to future Fort Carson ceremonies and events and will continue to collaborate with leadership to make Fort Carson the best hometown in the Army.