Monique B. Jones, LCSW

Monique is a visionary leader with an extensive background in mental health, violence prevention, philanthropy, and gender & racial equity. Her career and civic interests span the intersections where the lives of those most vulnerable fall victim to structural oppression and inequity. As a thriving Multiple Sclerosis warrior, she uses her experience and platform for education, encouragement, and advocacy.

She brings over 25 years of leadership in the nonprofit sector to her role as the fourth President & CEO for Forefront; Illinois' premier organization focused on connecting philanthropy, operating nonprofits, and their allies to improve the lives of all people in Illinois. Monique led the establishment of the organization’s Racial Equity Collective and expansion throughout the state of Illinois.

In her past leadership at the Evanston Community Foundation, she led the implementation of racial equity with grant making, fundraising and leadership development. She was successful at increasing the asset size of the organization from $18M to $30M in just five years. Under Monique’s leadership the Foundation established the Evanston Reparations Community Fund, the first of any Community Foundation nationally in support of the City of Evanston’s resolution to support reparations. Of note is her restructuring of the Foundation during the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, releasing grant restrictions, raising $6M. Monique is highly experienced at leading during difficult times.

Monique previously served as Director of Programs for the Chicago Foundation for Women, Director of Violence Prevention for the Cook County Department of Public Health, and Clinical Director for the historic Jane Addams Hull House Association. She began her career as a clinical therapist supporting families involved in the Pulaski County (Little Rock, Arkansas) juvenile justice system.

Monique serves on the board of IFF (Illinois Facilities Fund)-a Community Development Financial