Our Team
The people who are making a difference every day.
The people who are making a difference every day.
Megan joined the Urban Alliance team in November 2018 as a Momentum Supports Coordinator. Megan was born and raised in the Kalamazoo community but ventured down to Kansas City where she received her undergraduate at Park University. Since graduating, she spent her career in the banking industry where her greatest joy with the job was building relationships with people. Her passion for people and the core of who they are led her to this line of work. Her belief is that there is hope in everyone’s story. She believes hope, compassion and empathy can transform lives.
Read moreJoe is a Kalamazoo native, and spent a career in advanced manufacturing and engineering. Joe enjoys implementing systems and creating structure to facilitate growth and to strengthen organizations. He says, “Working with Urban Alliance has been a life changing experience and I am blessed to be able to focus my efforts on impacting the community by supporting an incredible team. It is an honor to serve our friends in the community and I look forward to seeing continued transformations of lives and families.”
Read moreAllison Brown joined the Urban Alliance team in October of 2019 with a desire for a change and a passion for finding a career that has an impact on others. Her journey to Urban Alliance is unique as she herself is a Momentum graduate. After experiencing her rock bottom she says “Urban Alliance was put in my path and I was unsure of the reason, I quickly realized Urban Alliance was going to change my life and I know now, that was the purpose”.
Read moreScott came to Urban Alliance in June 2018 as Volunteer Coordinator and Engagement Manager, having spent the better part of two decades working with non-profits and in education with students of all age groups. He is passionate about intentional community and building life affirming relationships, believing that ‘life is designed to be lived, together, in the service of others.’ Like all Urban Alliance staff, Scott strives to help individuals see that all people have value and, seeks to change systems that operate as though some people are more valuable than others.
Read moreEsto’s journey to Urban Alliance is far different from everyone else’s, as he is a product of over 15 years of pursuit by our Outreach Initiative. During his teenage years, Esto founded and led a gang in the Edison Neighborhood, during this time he made many decisions which nearly landed him in prison for life. Esto shared this, “my life was a mess, the options at that time were life in prison or eventual death due to my choices. However, the Lord had a plan for my life and led me down a different path filled with light, life, and joy.”
Read moreWhen he is not working, you can find Esto in fellowship with his family in friends whether that’s at the beach or in his back yard grilling out.
Jason Knight joined the Urban Alliance team in August 2019.
I was in the US Army for 4yrs. I served in Desert Storm as an infantryman. I spent 20 years in manufacturing as a machine operator, forklift operator, welder and a production supervisor. During this time I struggled with my addiction to alcohol and my mental illness. The birth of my oldest grandson was my aha moment and that is when I started pursuing a life of recovery. When I decided to start giving back Urban Alliance Momentum was the first place I volunteered. I later went on to become a Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach. I am married and have 4 amazing daughters and 2 grandsons. I love to BBQ and watch Michigan Football. You will find me in Ann Arbor in the fall taking in the football game.
Luke Kujacznski came to Urban Alliance after successfully starting, building, running, and then selling a business in the construction industry. He originally started at Urban Alliance as a volunteer, and then became the second momentum director. When the prior executive director suffered a significant medical issue, he stepped up and led the organization through the crisis, first as interim director and then as the executive director. In the three subsequent years, he has led the organization from being supported by three part-time staff on a $450,000 annual budget, to having a $2,500,000 annual budget with 15 full-time staff in 2018.
Read moreLuke was recently selected by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as being a “40 under 40” business leader who is making a significant impact in West Michigan. Kujacznski has a B.A. in management and leadership development on top of extensive for-profit business experience. When not working, Luke enjoys spending time with his beautiful family, reading thought provoking books, and fishing.
Jamie has lived in Kalamazoo for most of her life. She is a graduate of Kalamazoo Valley Community College and had a career as a Respiratory Therapist prior to experiencing a life-changing medical issue. Jamie has always had a passion for bettering the lives of those around her. Since returning to the workforce, she has found that her heart lies in social justice and the non-profit sector and truly believes that every day you wake up breathing is going to be a good day. She brings positivity and laughter to everything that she does and believes that with a little bit of positive encouragement and support, anyone is able to make changes in their lives. “Everyone deserves to be valued, respected and given the opportunity to show you their best self.”
Read moreJamilah joined the Urban Alliance team in May of 2019 as a Classroom Coordinator. She was born and raised in Kalamazoo, graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School. Jamilah spent the past 8 years in a career banking related but she always knew her hearts passion was to be a resource in her community by being able to guide and help others come out of situations or circumstances that prevented them from being the best version of themselves. Jamilah takes pride in seeing individuals as human beings and not allowing their barriers to define who they are.
Read moreJamilah has a son and daughter both in middle school who are the light of her life. When not working you can find them all walking around downtown, listening to music, watching movies or finding a new breakfast spot to try as breakfast is their all time favorite meal anytime of the day! Jamilah also enjoys traveling and opening herself and her children up to new experiences, environments and cultures.
Jacob Pinney-Johnson is a 4th- generation Kalamazoo resident. A recipient of the Kalamazoo Promise, he holds a B.A in Social Work with a Minor in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University. Jacob joined the Urban Alliance team in July of 2018 as Classroom Coordinator. He brings with him experience in racial equity, health & wellness, youth development, family support and social justice/advocacy work.
Read moreIn addition to having a passion for community empowerment, Jacob enjoys being a husband and father of two!
Gadson Chris Pompey joined the Urban Alliance team in April of 2018, bringing many years of non-profit and management experience. He was born and raised in the inner city of Baltimore, MD. Currently Chris is finishing his formal education through Purdue Global University enrolled in the Masters’ of Psychology with a concentration in Addictions. Chris understands the pit of addiction after overcoming his own. He attributes his freedom to his rededication to Christ 15 years ago. Read more
When not working Gadson can be found spending time with his family, as he states it is his main priority. Gadson is married with four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren. Gadson also shares that his faith in Christ is the core of his existence.
Janelle joined Urban Alliance team in June 2017 as a Momentum Classroom Coordinator. Janelle is a certified life coach and sports coach and plans to use these acquired skills to help people become their best selves. She believes everyone has the ability to overcome their life circumstances and achieve their dreams and goals. Janelle says, ‘working at Urban Alliance gives me the freedom to put my passions to work and see people develop and grow into the men and women they desire to be.”
Read moreLuke Kujacznski came to Urban Alliance after successfully starting, building, running, and then selling a business in the construction industry. He originally started at Urban Alliance as a volunteer, and then became the second momentum director. When the prior executive director suffered a significant medical issue, he stepped up and led the organization through the crisis, first as interim director and then as the executive director. In the three subsequent years, he has led the organization from being supported by three part-time staff on a $450,000 annual budget, to having a $2,500,000 annual budget with 15 full-time staff in 2018.
Read moreLuke was recently selected by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as being a “40 under 40” business leader who is making a significant impact in West Michigan. Kujacznski has a B.A. in management and leadership development on top of extensive for-profit business experience. When not working, Luke enjoys spending time with his beautiful family, reading thought provoking books, and fishing.
Joe is a Kalamazoo native, and spent a career in advanced manufacturing and engineering. Joe enjoys implementing systems and creating structure to facilitate growth and to strengthen organizations. He says, “Working with Urban Alliance has been a life changing experience and I am blessed to be able to focus my efforts on impacting the community by supporting an incredible team. It is an honor to serve our friends in the community and I look forward to seeing continued transformations of lives and families.”
Read moreGadson Chris Pompey joined the Urban Alliance team in April of 2018, bringing many years of non-profit and management experience. He was born and raised in the inner city of Baltimore, MD. Currently Chris is finishing his formal education through Purdue Global University enrolled in the Masters’ of Psychology with a concentration in Addictions. Chris understands the pit of addiction after overcoming his own. He attributes his freedom to his rededication to Christ 15 years ago. Read more
When not working Gadson can be found spending time with his family, as he states it is his main priority. Gadson is married with four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren. Gadson also shares that his faith in Christ is the core of his existence.
Esto’s journey to Urban Alliance is far different from everyone else’s, as he is a product of over 15 years of pursuit by our Outreach Initiative. During his teenage years, Esto founded and led a gang in the Edison Neighborhood, during this time he made many decisions which nearly landed him in prison for life. Esto shared this, “my life was a mess, the options at that time were life in prison or eventual death due to my choices. However, the Lord had a plan for my life and led me down a different path filled with light, life, and joy.”
Read moreWhen he is not working, you can find Esto in fellowship with his family in friends whether that’s at the beach or in his back yard grilling out.
Scott came to Urban Alliance in June 2018 as Volunteer Coordinator and Engagement Manager, having spent the better part of two decades working with non-profits and in education with students of all age groups. He is passionate about intentional community and building life affirming relationships, believing that ‘life is designed to be lived, together, in the service of others.’ Like all Urban Alliance staff, Scott strives to help individuals see that all people have value and, seeks to change systems that operate as though some people are more valuable than others.
Read moreJanelle joined Urban Alliance team in June 2017 as a Momentum Classroom Coordinator. Janelle is a certified life coach and sports coach and plans to use these acquired skills to help people become their best selves. She believes everyone has the ability to overcome their life circumstances and achieve their dreams and goals. Janelle says, ‘working at Urban Alliance gives me the freedom to put my passions to work and see people develop and grow into the men and women they desire to be.”
Read moreJamilah joined the Urban Alliance team in May of 2019 as a Classroom Coordinator. She was born and raised in Kalamazoo, graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School. Jamilah spent the past 8 years in a career banking related but she always knew her hearts passion was to be a resource in her community by being able to guide and help others come out of situations or circumstances that prevented them from being the best version of themselves. Jamilah takes pride in seeing individuals as human beings and not allowing their barriers to define who they are.
Read moreJamilah has a son and daughter both in middle school who are the light of her life. When not working you can find them all walking around downtown, listening to music, watching movies or finding a new breakfast spot to try as breakfast is their all time favorite meal anytime of the day! Jamilah also enjoys traveling and opening herself and her children up to new experiences, environments and cultures.
Megan joined the Urban Alliance team in November 2018 as a Momentum Supports Coordinator. Megan was born and raised in the Kalamazoo community but ventured down to Kansas City where she received her undergraduate at Park University. Since graduating, she spent her career in the banking industry where her greatest joy with the job was building relationships with people. Her passion for people and the core of who they are led her to this line of work. Her belief is that there is hope in everyone’s story. She believes hope, compassion and empathy can transform lives.
Read moreAllison Brown joined the Urban Alliance team in October of 2019 with a desire for a change and a passion for finding a career that has an impact on others. Her journey to Urban Alliance is unique as she herself is a Momentum graduate. After experiencing her rock bottom she says “Urban Alliance was put in my path and I was unsure of the reason, I quickly realized Urban Alliance was going to change my life and I know now, that was the purpose”.
Read moreJason Knight joined the Urban Alliance team in August 2019.
I was in the US Army for 4yrs. I served in Desert Storm as an infantryman. I spent 20 years in manufacturing as a machine operator, forklift operator, welder and a production supervisor. During this time I struggled with my addiction to alcohol and my mental illness. The birth of my oldest grandson was my aha moment and that is when I started pursuing a life of recovery. When I decided to start giving back Urban Alliance Momentum was the first place I volunteered. I later went on to become a Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach. I am married and have 4 amazing daughters and 2 grandsons. I love to BBQ and watch Michigan Football. You will find me in Ann Arbor in the fall taking in the football game.
Jacob Pinney-Johnson is a 4th- generation Kalamazoo resident. A recipient of the Kalamazoo Promise, he holds a B.A in Social Work with a Minor in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University. Jacob joined the Urban Alliance team in July of 2018 as Classroom Coordinator. He brings with him experience in racial equity, health & wellness, youth development, family support and social justice/advocacy work.
Read moreIn addition to having a passion for community empowerment, Jacob enjoys being a husband and father of two!
Jamie has lived in Kalamazoo for most of her life. She is a graduate of Kalamazoo Valley Community College and had a career as a Respiratory Therapist prior to experiencing a life-changing medical issue. Jamie has always had a passion for bettering the lives of those around her. Since returning to the workforce, she has found that her heart lies in social justice and the non-profit sector and truly believes that every day you wake up breathing is going to be a good day. She brings positivity and laughter to everything that she does and believes that with a little bit of positive encouragement and support, anyone is able to make changes in their lives. “Everyone deserves to be valued, respected and given the opportunity to show you their best self.”
Read moreCommunicating through our actions that we value every individual.
1009 East Stockbridge Ave,
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
(269) 348-0978
info@uainc.org
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