Jerry Poje has long been one of Fairfax County’s most passionate and persistent voices for affordable housing and the end of homelessness. His tireless advocacy, grounded in deep moral conviction, has made a lasting impact in the Hunter Mill District and beyond.
A member of the Fairfax County Human Services Council (HSC) since 2011, Jerry has played a key role in shaping local housing policy. He serves on the HSC Budget Committee, ensuring community needs inform budget recommendations, and represents the council on the Affordable Housing Advisory Council (AHAC). On AHAC, he co-chairs the Legislative Committee, helping craft policy and budget proposals to expand housing access.
Since 2021, Jerry has also served on the NAACP Affordable Housing Advisory Council. Within the NAACP, he has led strategy meetings, organized testimony at budget hearings, mentored new advocates, and helped secure greater funding for affordable housing and shelter services. His work contributed to the Fairfax NAACP receiving national recognition as the most effective branch of its size.
For over 20 years, Jerry has volunteered with his faith community, UUCF Interfaith, in support of hypothermia prevention programs. He annually leads week-long efforts to host unhoused neighbors, fostering meaningful dialogue between guests, church members, and service providers. These gatherings not only offer shelter but build empathy and awareness across the community.
Described as “persistent, eloquent, unwavering, unafraid, and kind,” Jerry is known for educating others, building coalitions, and guiding new volunteers—from professionals to tenants—to advocate for housing justice. He has never hesitated to speak out in support of affordable housing projects, even when facing community opposition.
Jerry also led a subcommittee that helped the NAACP become more effective in engaging with state and local governments during legislative and budget cycles.
Through every role and initiative, Jerry Poje has remained focused on one mission: ensuring everyone in Fairfax County has a safe, stable, and affordable place to live. His leadership and compassion continue to inspire those working toward a more just and inclusive community.
“I am pleased to nominate Dr. Jerry Poje as Hunter Mill District’s Volunteer Fairfax Community Champion for his tireless work in support of affordable housing for all. Jerry has volunteered countless hours in many volunteer roles including as a longtime member of both the Fairfax County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and the Fairfax County Human Services Council, as a founding volunteer of the Hypothermia Program (mostly at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax), and as an unwavering advocate for the unhoused and the housing stressed in our community. Both directly and indirectly Jerry has helped thousands of people in housing distress over the past 2 decades, whether it is receiving life-saving shelter or finding permanent affordable housing.”
– Supervisor Walter Alcorn