Boys & Girls Clubs Serving Wake & Johnston Counties Welcomes Donyell “DJ” Jones as New Chief Operating Officer

Raleigh, N.C. — Boys & Girls Clubs serving Wake & Johnston Counties is proud to announce the appointment of Donyell “DJ” Jones as its new Chief Operating Officer. With more than two decades of experience dedicated to youth development and nonprofit leadership, DJ brings a passion for service and a proven track record of impact to this critical role. 

DJ returns to the Boys & Girls Clubs movement after serving as Executive Director of Urban Ministries of Wake County, where he led efforts to support those experiencing hunger, healthcare disparities, and homelessness. His leadership there strengthened services for some of the region’s most vulnerable populations. 

His connection to Boys & Girls Clubs spans 23 years and includes a variety of leadership roles—most notably, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central North Carolina. In 2019, DJ was honored as Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Southeast Region Professional of the Year, and in 2020, he received the prestigious Herman S. Prescott Award. This national recognition is presented annually to a Club professional whose commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion sets a standard across the movement. 

“We are thrilled to welcome DJ back to the Boys & Girls Clubs family,” said Matt Taliaferro, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs serving Wake & Johnston Counties. “His vision, leadership, and deep-rooted commitment to serving youth and families align perfectly with our mission. He brings a unique blend of operational excellence and heartfelt community service that will help us expand our impact across the region.” 

A native of North Carolina, DJ holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. He resides in Garner, NC, with his wife and three children. 

As Chief Operating Officer, Jones will lead the organization’s daily operations and strategic initiatives, ensuring that thousands of young people across Wake & Johnston Counties continue to have access to safe spaces, caring mentors, and life-changing opportunities. 

About Boys & Girls Clubs
Since 1967, Boys & Girls Clubs has been a vital community resource, serving thousands of youths each year across multiple locations. Boys & Girls Clubs provide a safe, positive environment where young people can reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.