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About us

HopeCity and its research partner, Human Elevation, bring a proven track record of management, stewardship, and success in private equity, marketing, advertising, strategic consulting, and advising across business, finance, technology, information, and media. With extensive experience partnering with both major corporations and startups, we have consistently driven transformative growth and lasting success.

​​Our team of experts is driven by a passion for building people, not just products. We are committed to creating meaningful experiences that empower, educate, and inspire communities worldwide.

​​We have collaborated with some of the world’s most iconic brands and individuals, including Apple, Microsoft, Target, Nike, Scholastic, Usher, Taylor Swift, Starbucks, Pepsi, McDonald’s, L’Oréal, Citigroup, Sony Entertainment, Nelson Mandela, Disney, Walmart, Hilton Hotels, and HBO.​

​Beyond consulting, we have built and invested in a diverse portfolio of innovative companies such as Highbridge Capital Management, Twitter(X.com), Jawbone, Shake Shack, Thrive Market, TigerLabs, Charity Miles, and Purpose.


D. Christopher Jennings

Volunteer and Strategy

​​Christopher Jennings, Steward of HopeCity, leads with a visionary approach that merges strategic innovation and systems thinking with deep-rooted passion. An inventor with rich experience in marketing, technology development, media, and business and intellectual property development for global giants, Jennings drives HopeCity's mission to elevate human well-being through profitable and sustainable, community-centric business models. 


Robert Caruso 

Volunteer and Finance  

Robert Caruso, Steward of HopeCity Investments, leverages his extensive financial expertise from managing multi-billion-dollar hedge funds to shape the organization's financial strategy. He focuses on ensuring long-term sustainability, advancing investment strategies, and aligning financial operations with HopeCity's mission to deliver impactful, community-driven economic solutions.

Jarrin Kirksey

Volunteer and Data Enterprises & Media

Jarrin Kirksey, Steward of HopeCity, spearheads the development of Information Technologies, Media, Consumer Measurement, and Research. His expertise in digital transformation, system architecture, and digital storytelling drives the creation of platforms and content that empower communities, enabling data-driven decision-making and fostering sustainable economic growth.


Takia Jennings

Volunteer and Operations 

Takia Jennings, Steward of HopeCity Operations and Accounting, manages the organization's financial records with precision and integrity. Her expertise ensures accurate financial reporting and efficient budgeting, directly supporting HopeCity's mission of sustainable community development.

Jamar Lockwood

Volunteer and Real Estate/Property Management

Jamar Lockwood, Steward of HopeCity Real Estate Division, oversees the management and maintenance of residential and commercial properties within the community. His commitment ensures that all facilities are safe, well-maintained, and contribute to a thriving living and working environment for HopeCity residents.

Keith Campbell 

Volunteer and Client Relations 


Keith Campbell, Steward of HopeCity Client Relations, is dedicated to building strong, collaborative relationships within the community. His focus is on fostering trust and engagement, ensuring that HopeCity's initiatives align closely with the needs and aspirations of the people it serves.


Will Merrifield

Volunteer and Family/Community Development

Will Merrifield, Steward of HopeCity Family and Community Development, leads personalized programs that foster the growth of individuals, families, and communities. These programs are guided by the first principle that the home is the most valuable asset, and each person within it is essential to a thriving community. By nurturing individuals, Will helps build stronger, more resilient communities organically.