Jessica Pilling?

Nicknamed "Sunshine" and known for her heart to serve, Jessica Pilling is the Executive Director of Wake Harvest, a youth mentorship and development organization dedicated to preventing youth suicide and empowering the next generation.

In January 2019, Jessica launched the Wake Harvest Youth Mentorship Program, an outreach initiative dedicated to helping children develop emotional regulation, self-esteem, problem-solving skills, and social confidence. That summer, Wake Harvest hosted its first summer camp, ensuring that no child was left home alone. By December 2019, over 65 children were actively enrolled in the program, and it has continued to grow.

Through Wake Harvest, Jessica has developed a one-of-a-kind youth development program that strengthens family relationships, builds trust, and promotes effective communication. She partners with parents to create a nurturing environment where children feel heard, understood, and empowered.

In 2020, Wake Harvest opened its first center. During the height of the pandemic, Jessica transformed the facility into a virtual learning center for WCPSS families, ensuring children had the support they needed for remote education.

In 2021, she implemented the Wake Harvest before and after-school program, further expanding the organization’s reach. Jessica firmly believes that #ItTakesAVillage and she is committed to being a vital part of that village.

In January 2023, Wake Harvest partnered with St. Paul’s Christian Church, where the organization now occupies the children’s ministry building to continue offering mentorship, development programs, and summer camps.

Jessica’s mission is simple yet powerful: to give the next generation hope for the future.

Jessica’s passion for youth development continues to drive Wake Harvest’s expansion. In June 2025, Wake Harvest opened a center in Wake Forest to further expand Wake Harvest’s reach and provide more opportunities for mentorship, education, and community support. The vision? To create a safe, nurturing space where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

With a steadfast commitment to her mission, Jessica continues to plant seeds of hope, strength, and resilience in the next generation ensuring that every child who walks through Wake Harvest’s doors knows that their life has purpose, meaning, and a bright future ahead.