For 16 years, Leon Gordon has dedicated himself to serving Bloomington families. This video highlights his proven track record at the Bloomington Housing Authority—from advancing affordable housing to launching nationally-awarded community support programs. Watch to see the experience, commitment, and energy he brings to the Perry Township Trustee office.
Since stepping to the office of Trustee, I have been able to leverage my systemic knowledge and proven leadership to preserve and strengthen our essential services. I've spent well over a decade in this community helping families overcome homelessness and helping them remain stable. As a dedicated father of four girls, I know firsthand how important it is to operate a township where every family can find the support when they need it. Click here to view my candidate statement. My opening & closing speech from the January 31st caucus can be viewed here.
My career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to housing advocacy and community empowerment. The core duties of the Trustee's office—particularly in providing essential emergency assistance and housing support—align perfectly with my professional expertise and life's work.
In my roles as the Administrative Director for the Bloomington Housing Authority and as the Director of the New Hope for Families Shelter program (in addition to my time as a Family Housing Specialist), I navigated complex housing systems to deliver real, tangible support to those in need. During my tenure at the Bloomington Housing Authority, I created and advanced innovative programs that remain in place to this day, specifically the Mobile Grocery Shuttle Program and the Landlord Risk Mitigation Fund.
I actively shape regional housing and support strategies through my service on the South Central Housing Network Board (SCHN), the South Central Community Action Program board (SCCAP), the Indiana Balance of State Continuum of Care Board (IN BoS CoC), and the Statewide Capital Projects Initiative Committee (SCPIC) for Indiana United Ways. Through SCPIC, I was proud to vote in support of vital local capital projects: upgrades to the Community Kitchen satellite location and the building of the forthcoming Beacon, Inc. project.
My approach to public service is grounded in rigorous analysis and strategic problem-solving and design as a Learning Scientist, supported by my doctoral (PhD) studies at Indiana University, my Masters in the Learning Sciences from Northwestern University, and BA from the University of Chicago (English/Pre-Med).
Moving forward, my vision for Perry Township is rooted in proactive support, transparency, and community partnership.
I believe the Trustee's office should not just be a safety net, but a vital community hub that actively prevents crises before they occur.
Fostering strong, communicative relationships between the Trustee's office, local landlords, and community organizations to ensure sustainable housing solutions.
Streamlining the process for emergency assistance to ensure that our most vulnerable residents receive timely, dignified, and effective support.
Empowering residents and property owners alike with clear, accessible information about the resources and services available through the Township.
I am actively developing plans for a Community, Outreach, Resource, and Education (CORE) Center. This initiative is designed to strategically collaborate with community partners to create a hub that advances supportive service infrastructure "upstream", focusing on community building, proactive outreach, education & personal empowerment to support household stability, economic vitality and neighborly connection & relationship building.
Explore recent coverage, interviews, and official statements regarding my work in the community.