Meet Gordon Sims of Duet: Partners In Health & Aging

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gordon Sims.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Gordon. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
In my career, I’ve done everything from creating a community center to help raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for a variety of nonprofits. From 2002-2005, I owned 5 Elements, a community center with a retail space, yoga studio and art studio. From there, my career in nonprofits began with the Sojourner Center, where I served as the volunteer program coordinator, associate director of community partnerships, and then director of major gifts. I was there from 2005-2013.

I then was the director of major gifts at the Franciscan Renewal Center, then the director of community of engagement at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, and now, since 2016, the director of development for Duet: Partners In Health & Aging. While earning a living from my nonprofit work, I also made sure to set an example to others by volunteering my time, too. I’ve volunteered time at all of the nonprofits I’ve worked for and others I haven’t—such as the Tumbleweed Center for Youth Development, Port Clinton Senior Center, Columbus Aids Task Force, the Foundation for Living Medicine, and more.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Nothing in life is a smooth road – where are the lessons in that? Early on in my adulthood, I found myself addicted to alcohol—and am proud to now say that I’ve been sober more than 18 years. Also, 5 Elements was closed down due to the economy, causing myself and my partner to reevaluate our career choices. Through it all though, I’m grateful for every lesson learned.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
Duet is a nonprofit, interfaith organization that promotes health and well-being through a broad range of services to homebound adults, family caregivers, faith communities and grandparents raising grandchildren. Duet’s free-of-charge services are available in the greater Phoenix area.

We specialize in helping those we serve age with dignity, compassion and hope. We help older adults and their families cope with challenges related to aging. From getting groceries and rides to the doctor to health promotion activities and support groups.

I’m most proud of how dedicated our staff and volunteers are – how much we care about those we serve.

What were you like growing up?
I’ve always been curious and interested in how things work.

Contact Info:

• Address: 10000 N. 31st Ave, Suite D200
  Phoenix, AZ 85051
• Website: www.duetaz.org
• Phone: 6022745022
• Email: info@duetaz.org
• Facebook: wwww.facebook.com/duetaz
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/duetaz

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.