I've always been passionate about helping others, sense I could remember. As the eldest of my siblings, I was somewhat of a mother figure in my household. After having my first son I went on to become an LPN for about 15 years. This really helped me understand more about the healthcare field and the importance of caring for others. I noticed a lot of the underlying issues - like mental health and behavioral concerns that often went untreated. After the passing of my mother who always wanted to open an adult care facility, I decided to begin Preserve Independence with my husband (Tony Jones) to continue caring for those who need it most.

As a young man growing up in the heart of Detroit, I often noticed how much of my family and friends struggled with their mental health. Fortunately, I was able to be involved in organizations that provided me with a sense of community at a young age. As I stepped into my adulthood, I realized that mental illness was becoming a more prominent issue, however, it still seemed very stigmatized to talk about. Which is what led my wife (Nicole Jones) and I to begin Preserve Independence - to provide a place for adults with mental heath concerns that could have a sense of community.

Growing up as the oldest of three, with a younger brother who was developmentally delayed, I developed a passion for helping others and ending the stigma around mental health. Witnessing my brother's struggles inspired my belief that everyone deserves to live life to the fullest, regardless of mental health challenges. This passion led me to pursue a career in social work, earning my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University in 2018 and my Master's in Social Work, with a focus on interpersonal clinical practice, from Wayne State University in 2019. I've been practicing social work for over two years and joined Preserve Independence in August 2021 to continue supporting others on their journeys.