ABJ Community Services, Inc is a youth and family centered organization rooted in creativity and innovation. ABJ focuses largely on the arts as a tool to stimulate economic growth for the organization and greater community. One of our primary goals is to demonstrate how the arts and social services can be integrated and utilized as an effective and innovative power engine that elevate youth and adults from a range of social and economic disparities.
Our Mission
Annie B. Jones Community Services, Inc. (ABJ) is a youth-focused institute of high-end arts, culture, and training. ABJ utilizes the visual, media, and performing arts to create innovative programs that teach youth to become change agents in their own community.
Vision
We envision a world in which a ray of Peace and Hope exists because of art.
History
Annie B. Jones Community Services, Inc. (aka ABJ) was incorporated on April 14, 1993. Since that time, ABJ has provided comprehensive life changing services to more than 5,000 individuals and families annually.
Under the leadership of one of today’s most prophetic leaders, Dr. Vivian R. Jones (Founder/President Emeritus), ABJ has become an example of the importance in providing integrated, diversified social services by providing services that meet the client where they are and helping them to move forward towards their goals.
Leadership Team
Pastor Victoria C. Brady, President/CEO
Maxine Horton, Coordinator Workforce Development
Deborah Ross, Director of Arts and Education
Cedrick “SB” Earsery, Arts Development Manager
Jessica “Jeza” Wagner, Administrative Assistant Arts Development
Lauritz Brady, Director of Facilities
Dr. Vivian R. Jones, Founder/President Emeritus
Board of Directors
Representative William Q. Davis, Chairman
Illinois State Representative – 30th District
Zackery Melson, Vice Chairman
The Copeland Insurance Group
Shirley Chappell, Treasurer
Retired – City Colleges of Chicago
Chiquita Lowery, Director
Railroad Retirement Board