In the heart of Chandler, Community on Purpose is redefining what it means to serve. Founded by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Mindy Jones, the nonprofit is built on the belief that giving back doesn’t happen by accident—it happens with intention.
“People often say that community just happens ‘organically,’ but the truth is, it takes action, consistency, and a whole lot of heart,” Jones says. “Community isn’t just something we’re part of—it’s something we create.”
Jones’ passion for service began early. As a second grader, she launched a peer mediation group to help classmates navigate playground disputes.
“Even then, I knew that problems like not feeling seen or understood could be solved with the right tools,” she recalls.
That mindset carried through high school, where she founded a literary magazine and a suicide prevention program, and later into her nonprofit career.
In 2003, she served with AmeriCorps at Make A Difference, now Hands on Greater Phoenix, where she saw firsthand how grassroots efforts could create lasting change.
“That was a pivotal moment for me,” Jones says. “I realized there were entire careers built around empowering people to help others.”
Her work led her through various nonprofit roles, including launching the Community Volunteer Program at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and leading donor development for the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. But even as her career shifted toward entrepreneurship, her dedication to service never wavered.
When she launched Amy Jones Group, a real estate company deeply rooted in community, giving back became part of its identity.
“At first, we just did volunteer projects as a team,” she explains. “Then we expanded—highlighting local businesses, organizing fundraisers, and supporting those in need.”
It quickly became clear that their giving efforts had outgrown the business, and in 2022, Community on Purpose was born. The nonprofit focuses on fundraising, friendraising, and direct giving in support of children, families, and women in leadership.
Since its inception, Community on Purpose has played a vital role in numerous local initiatives, partnering with organizations like ICAN, Azcend, House of Refuge, Shannon’s Giving, The Clothes Cabin, and Jacob’s Mission. From funding meals for families battling cancer to providing micro-grants for individuals facing eviction, the organization steps in where it’s needed most.
“Our goal isn’t to duplicate services but to amplify the impact of existing organizations,” Jones explains. “We want to be the bridge that connects people who want to help with the causes that need them.”
The nonprofit has also received notable recognition. Jones, who has served on the ICAN Dream Big committee and holds multiple community leadership positions, has been honored with awards including the Chandler 1000 Hour Club Volunteer Award, Henry Salinas Heroes Award, and is a Woman of Chandler recipient.
This year, Community on Purpose is expanding by opening board and committee positions.
“So many people have asked how they can get involved,” Jones says. “We have a ton of ways to serve, and we want as many people as possible to be part of it.”
For Jones, the work is deeply personal.
“There’s a concept in Judaism called ‘tikkun olam,’ which means to heal or repair the world,” she shares. “That’s what Community on Purpose is all about—taking action, making an impact, and leaving the world better than we found it.”