Joe Jones
Joseph D. Jones currently serves in a dual capacity as President/CEO of the Grand Rapids Urban League and President/CEO of E.E. Milestone + Associates, Inc. As leader of the Grand Rapids Urban League, Jones leads the development and implementation of an agenda that promotes economic empowerment as a means of elevating the standard of living in the underserved urban communities of Grand Rapids. The League is a 69-year old civil rights organization who’s mission is to provide the means to empower African Americans and other minorities to achieve economic self-reliance, parity and civil rights. Their vision is to be the leader, and preeminent agency in West Michigan effectively utilizing diverse and abundant resources to redress racial injustice and promote racial equality.
E.E. Milestone + Associates, Inc., Jones offers a very unique base of experience working with organizations within industries such as healthcare, public education, construction, telecommunications, sports + entertainment, philanthropy, community development, faith-based and human services spanning over 12 years. E.E. Milestone + Associates, Inc. is a purpose-driven consultancy whose mission is to add value and wisdom to organizations in the areas of strategic communications and cultural competence.
Jones is committed to the community, and currently serves on a number of boards including: Economic Club of Grand Rapids, Chemical Bank – Grand Rapids Community Advisory Board, SNV, LLC, St. Mary’s Community Benefit Ministry, and the Kent County Collective Impact Steering Committee. His professional experience includes over 10 years of service in his native city of Detroit in the non-profit sector as a community organizer, program coordinator and project manager. Prior to Milestone, Joseph was the Managing Partner of Strategic Communications Group, LLC, a consulting firm providing communication strategies to a myriad of industries. Joseph holds a bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Oakland University and is currently studying for his Master’s in Ministry Leadership at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary.
Joseph is a seasoned facilitator, trainer and public speaker. Joe and Jessie are the parents of four children (Eric, Erica, Miles and Micaela) and grandparents of two grandsons (Elijah and Isaiah).