Jon Bon Jovi
Board Chairman
Musically and philanthropically, Jon Bon Jovi’s work honors the spirit of America and salutes the principles that define our nation. Self-reliance, optimism and community are key concepts he embodies, not just in his music, but also in his charitable efforts. These common threads have resulted in millions of dollars raised while bringing heightened awareness to the issues that adversely impact our society.
Mr. Bon Jovi is Chairman of The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing about positive change and helping the lives of those in need “one Soul at a time.” The Soul Foundation focuses on combating issues that force families and individuals into economic despair with programs and partnerships targeted at breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness. To date Jon Bon Jovi and the Soul Foundation have provided affordable housing for hundreds of low-income individuals and families throughout the country.
The projects funded by the Soul Foundation address the issues of food and shelter for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Facilities and projects which have benefited range from temporary shelters, transitional housing for teens, permanent supportive housing including housing for vets and special needs populations, as well as home ownership opportunities. In 2010 the Foundation partnered on a pilot program in Red Bank, NJ to create the “Soul Kitchen” for the working poor. The kitchen, currently in the process of finding a new location, is designed to provide nutritional, hot meals to patrons who contribute what, if anything, they can afford. Those who can not afford the cost of meals are able to volunteer at the Food Pantry in exchange.
Musically, the Grammy Award winning rock band Bon Jovi has set the bar for nearly three decades as one of the most successful rock bands in the world. Globally, they have sold more than 120 million albums, performed more than 2,600 concerts in over 50 countries for more than 34 million fans. Throughout the years, the band has consistently delivered #1 albums and Top Ten hits - most recently, Mr. Bon Jovi's 13th album, The Circle, debuted at #1 around the world while the accompanying World Tour became the #1 tour in North America. Jon and his wife, Dorothea, have four children and still call their native New Jersey home.