Jan Mulder's job as an area director takes a variety of forms in the diverse south Chicago community in which she serves. Mulder is the coach of the freshman girls' basketball team at Thorwood High School, which is more than 90 percent African American. She's also chair of a youth commission, serves on a youth task force and is a member of a local ministerial association. In the midst of it all, she runs a Young Life club, a WyldLife club and Campaigners.

Working in the distinct and constantly challenging community of south Chicago, specifically the community of South Holland, Mulder has labored for and loved the ethnically diverse population there since 1997. For her work in supporting diversity in South Holland, she was given an achievement award by an organization called Diversity, Inc., which helps promote diverse and sustainable communities. The award was given to her in September at a dinner event, which was hosted by AT&T.

South Holland community leaders nominated her for Diversity Inc.'s award. The banquet, hosted by AT&T, was attended by more than 300 people, including local and state politicians. Mulder was one of only four award recipients.

Mulder’s commitment to diversity has led her to reach out to kids and adults in the community. The youth task force she helped initiate is made up of school administrators, local officials, business people, parents and local kids who work to promote positive ideals for kids in the community. As a member of South Holland’s Ministerial Association, Mulder said, she helps “bridge the gap” between white and African American churches.

"Jan has been very committed to the community as it has changed over the years," said Brett Hersma, Chicagoland regional director. While many people have moved away, Jan has been committed to our model of reaching ‘every kid’ in the community."