Jonathan Rinehart Sr.

Jonathan is an alumnus of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network and Grand Valley State University School of Social Work, and is a case manager for the Behavioral Health Department of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribe. Prior to his current position, Jonathan worked as the NHBP’s northern youth specialist. During his time there, he demonstrated his care and concern for tribal youth, recognizing the importance of sharing knowledge and resources to the next generation. He has been doing this work for over 15 years for urban Native Americans living in the Greater Grand Rapids area. One of Jonathan’s many gifts is raising awareness about issues concerning the community and then working to bring forth solutions. He served as chair for Anishinaabe Circle, an emerging nonprofit organization focused on bridging service gaps within communities. As a strong advocate for food sovereignty and food justice in the urban Native American community, his latest project focused on improving access to healthier food options, encouraging community participants to grow their own food through the installation of raised-bed gardens, followed by instructions on how to care for the plants until harvest. Jonathan continues to advocate for food justice as a mechanism to empower vulnerable children and their families.