Imagine a community in which all of its children have access to high-quality education from birth to career. Imagine the impact, not only on individuals and families but on the community as a whole. Toledo can be that community, and one vehicle to help achieve that vision is HOPE Toledo. John C. Jones, President, HOPE Toledo will share the background, current efforts, and future plans for HOPE Toledo.

John Jones is a proven leader with expertise in diversity, inclusion, board governance, strategic community building, and leadership development. HOPE Toledo is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the premise that strengthening education will increase opportunity for all of Toledo’s children and youth, grow prosperity for its residents, and improve the future for our families and neighborhoods. John leads HOPE Toledo’s focus to advocate, support, and ensure equitable access to high-quality education for Toledo children and youth via two strategies— expanding high-quality early childhood education (preschool) for Toledo four-year-olds, and expanding the opportunity for Toledo high school graduates to obtain a scholarship to a college, career-technical, or post-secondary trade school.\nPrior to HOPE Toledo, John served for more than 16 years in various roles for ProMedica, with his last assignment as the Community Liaison with the Social Determinants of Health team. John previously served the community as the President and CEO of the Greater Toledo Urban League from 2008 – 2012. He is a certified diversity practitioner and is accredited by the American Hospital Association’s Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. He has an MBA from the University of Toledo (2013) and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Central State University (1996).\nJohn serves the community in various capacities through organizations, boards, and other volunteer opportunities. His greatest calling is being an ordained minister. He serves as an Associate Minister at the Christian Temple Baptist Church under the leadership and pastorate of his father, Rev. Charles E. Jones. Preaching and ministering for 20 years, John clearly defines who he is through this service and it is the guiding principle for what he does in his professional life. John resides in Toledo with his wife Charity. His most significant blessings are his three beautiful children, Naomi Elise, Cathryn Elisabeth, and John Michael.