About Us

Natasha S. Alford is an award-winning journalist, host, author, and media executive recognized for harnessing the power of storytelling to inspire and educate.

 

Currently serving as Senior Vice President at TheGrio, Natasha leads with a commitment to amplifying overlooked stories. A former CNN Political Analyst, Alford is a trusted voice in media, regularly providing insightful commentary.

Natasha's work has been featured in major outlets such as MSNBC, The New York Times, The Guardian, Oprah Daily, TIME Magazine, and Vogue.

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A former Teach For America educator, Natasha holds degrees from Harvard University and Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She also earned a Master of Public Policy from Princeton University, focusing on domestic and urban policy.

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In 2024, Natasha published her critically acclaimed memoir, American Negra (HarperCollins), which earned an International Latino Book Award.

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A regular mentor, Natasha volunteers to help aspiring journalists and writers via TheOpEd Project and a established a scholarship for high school students in her hometown of Syracuse, NY. 

After working as a volunteer with Joi’s Angels in 2024, Natasha was elected to serve as president of the board for the 2025-2027 term.

Toni Ince is a strategic thinker, community advocate, and longtime volunteer with a passion for uplifting families. As Vice President of the Board of Joi’s Angels, she brings over 18 years of experience in social services, a strong background in community organizing, and a heart for service.

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Toni is currently pursuing a degree in Black Studies and plans to earn her doctorate in the near future. During the pandemic, she created weekly virtual support circles to help people process grief and anxiety in community. Her leadership extends to serving on multiple boards, including the Newark Caribbean Commission, where she was elected to the Executive Board in 2024, and founding the first Family Association at her son’s school.

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A proud mother to her son Tyler, Toni finds joy in skating, reading, traveling, and living by Philippians 4:13. She has volunteered with Joi’s Angels since 2012 and was elected Vice President of the board in 2024. 

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Toni’s leadership is rooted in a deep belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported—especially children and families navigating hardship. Whether facilitating community dialogues, mentoring parents, or guiding organizational strategy, she leads with empathy and purpose. Her service at Joi’s Angels reflects a lifelong calling to advocate for those without a voice and to ensure that every act of care is met with dignity.

Irene Taylor serves as Secretary of the Board at Joi’s Angels, where she combines her passion for community service with a sharp eye for detail.

 

As an Accounts Payable Coordinator and Legal Billing Specialist, Irene brings a wealth of financial expertise and a deep commitment to excellence in every role she takes on.

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Outside of work, Irene is an avid fan of logic games and dramatic fiction. She is the proud mother of three and also serves as the Youth Coordinator at Joi’s Angels, helping to nurture the next generation.

 

Irene holds an associate’s degree in accounting and is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Her dedication to both the numbers and the people behind them makes her an integral part of the Joi’s Angels leadership team.

Mark Young serves as Board Chaplain for Joi’s Angels, bringing decades of spiritual leadership and community dedication to the organization. An ordained Reverend since 2007, Mark offers pastoral guidance and support grounded in faith, wisdom, and lived experience.

Before his retirement in 2013, Mark spent 26 years serving as a New Jersey Corrections Police Officer, earning numerous awards and certifications in law enforcement. For eight of those years, he also served as Union Vice President for PBA Local 105, advocating for fellow officers and strengthening workplace protections.

Mark holds a bachelor’s degree in Christian education and is a devoted husband of 30 years to Valerie Young. Together, they are the proud parents of six children and grandparents to seventeen. His steadfast commitment to service—both spiritual and civic—makes him a vital presence on the Joi’s Angels board.

Marquan Smith is the Treasurer of the Board at Joi’s Angels, where he brings sharp organizational skills, deep community roots, and a strong sense of purpose to the role. A proud product of Elizabeth High School’s Gifted and Talented program, Marquan has always approached life as a free thinker—grounded in service, family, and leadership.

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His professional journey began at just fifteen, working in retail at the Levi’s store in Jersey Gardens Mall. After graduating high school, he began his public service career at the Newark DMV, where he spent sixteen years as a lane technician and served five of those years as a shop steward. Today, Marquan works as a New Jersey State Safety Specialist and holds a federal MCSAP certification.

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Marquan’s love for his community is matched only by the love he has for his two children, Amara and MJ. When he's not balancing budgets or advocating for road safety, you’ll find him enjoying the outdoors, fishing, attending music festivals, or spending time with his dog.

Charles Hopkins is an artist who has nurtured his creative talents from a young age. He developed his artistic skills at the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts, where he explored various creative disciplines.

 

Though Charles no longer makes music, his early involvement in the field has greatly influenced his artistic expression and provided valuable lessons that continue to shape his journey.

 

Known for his wit, open-mindedness, and easy-going nature, Charles also manages severe persistent mental illness (S.P.M.I.), which has brought both challenges and depth to his experiences. He is adaptable and family-oriented, bringing a unique perspective to his creative endeavors.

 

Charles is the Board Representative for the mentally ill served by Joi's Angels.