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John Jones

Founder & Assistant Director

John Michael Jones - Greenwood Indiana Pride INC



Profile Summary


Name: John Michael Jones
Company: Greenwood Indiana Pride INC
Position: Founder and Assistant Director
LinkedIn Profile: [John Michael Jones LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-michael-jones-4b6322213)

Professional Background


John Michael Jones is the Founder and Assistant Director of Greenwood Indiana Pride INC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Greenwood, Indiana. Founded in 2018 with the mission to inspire, educate, commemorate, and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, Greenwood Indiana Pride has made significant local impact by organizing annual pride events aimed at fostering inclusivity and diversity. The organization notably produced Greenwood's first Pride event in 2021.

Roles and Responsibilities


  • Founder & Assistant Director at Greenwood Indiana Pride INC: Since June 2019, John Michael Jones has played a pivotal role in establishing and directing the organization. His contributions involve strategic planning, overseeing event logistics, and coordinating with community stakeholders.

  • Volunteer Experience:

  • President

  • Education, Prevention, and Outreach Coordinator


Key Achievements & Contributions


  • Event Organization: Jones has been instrumental in the growth of the annual Greenwood Pride Festival, which has expanded significantly each year. The 2024 festival is expected to draw between 12,000 and 14,000 attendees and will feature nearly 200 vendors, entertainment acts including live music and drag shows, as well as health information hubs.

  • Community Outreach: Through initiatives such as storytime, face painting, and the Kids Kamp, Jones ensures the events are family-friendly and inclusive of all age groups.

  • Health and Well-being Initiatives: A significant feature of the festival includes health screenings and information about mental health, emphasizing suicide prevention, highlighted by the involvement of the nonprofit Step-Up in organizing a clothing exchange for gender-affirming care.

  • Recognition and Leadership: Jones's leadership and vision have been acknowledged widely within the community. He has actively advocated for LGBTQ rights and continues to work closely with local government and institutions to ensure the event's success and growth.


Media Presence and Public Influence


  • Social Media: Active on platforms including Twitter and Instagram where he promotes pride events and advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/justjohnmjones)).

  • Press Features: Subject of various articles and interviews highlighting his role and the impact of Greenwood Indiana Pride on the local community, including pieces in the Daily Journal and WISH-TV.



Key Collaborations and Support


  • Suzanne Fortenberry (Executive Director, Greenwood Indiana Pride INC): Regularly collaborates with Jones in planning and executing the organization's events.

  • Denise Lee (Treasurer): Works alongside Jones to ensure the financial health and transparency of the organization.

  • Nicole Kemp (Director of Fundraising): Collaborates on fundraising efforts to support the organization's mission and events.


Notable Quotes


  • "Pride is for everybody. You don’t have to be LGBTQ+ to be part of this." - John Michael Jones


Upcoming Events:
  • Greenwood Pride Festival 2024: Scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. at Woodmen Park, Greenwood. The event will feature food trucks, vendors, live music, and more.


Contact Information


Email: info@greenwoodindianapride.com
Facebook: [Greenwood Indiana Pride](https://www.facebook.com/GreenwoodINPride/)



This report provides a comprehensive overview of John Michael Jones's professional background, achievements, and contributions as the Founder and Assistant Director of Greenwood Indiana Pride INC. His leadership in promoting LGBTQIA+ rights and organizing community events has been pivotal in fostering an inclusive environment in Greenwood, Indiana.