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.

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.

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.