Back to NFM Home StoriesCandi Jones of Girls Inc. of Omaha on Leading with Purpose
Prepared by Dani Dross | Published on March 24, 2026
As a longtime community partner of NFM, Girls Inc. of Omaha works alongside the company to support programs and leaders who strengthen families and expand opportunity. That shared commitment is reflected in NFM’s partnership with Girls Inc. and in the work of Candi Jones, the organization’s executive director, whose leadership centers on care, dignity, and long-term impact.
Candi Jones’ Path to Nonprofit Leadership
Candi Jones never set out to lead a nonprofit. But today, she is exactly where she believes she’s meant to be. With decades of experience in human resources, executive coaching, and trauma-informed care, Jones is dedicated to supporting girls at every stage of their lives. After being asked three times to step into the role, she finally said yes. Her decision was grounded in reflection, faith, and a guiding question passed down from her grandmother: If not you, then who?
That sense of purpose is deeply connected to Jones’ personal journey. A survivor of sexual trauma, she speaks openly about how healing shaped her approach to leadership. For years, she supported others without fully addressing her own experiences, until a pivotal moment made her realize that meaningful leadership requires vulnerability and self-work. Today, she leads by sharing what she has learned, believing that authenticity is what builds trust. For Jones, leadership is about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and safe enough to grow.
How Girls Inc. Empowers Girls in Omaha
At Girls Inc., that philosophy shows up in a “whole girl” approach to programming designed to support girls’ health, education, and leadership development. The organization serves girls ages five to eighteen through daily, year-round support that focuses on physical health, education, and personal development. Beyond after-school programming, Girls Inc. provides meals, transportation, mentoring, STEM education, and transitional housing for young women aging out of foster care. Many girls also have access to an on-site medical clinic led by women who reflect the communities they serve — an intentional step toward addressing health disparities and improving access to care.
Why Community Partnerships Matter
The impact of Girls Inc. Omaha’s empowerment programs can’t be captured by data alone. While numbers matter, the real success stories are often quieter: A shy girl finding her voice, a young woman learning to advocate for herself, or a former participant returning as a professional leader. To Jones, these moments are proof that when girls are met with dignity, consistency, and love, their futures expand.
Listen to the Full Podcast Episode
To listen to the full episode of I Am Home with Candi’s story, click here. To explore all episodes of I Am Home, visit our podcast page.
What Is Girls Inc.?
Girls Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Through mentorship and research-based programs, the organization helps girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prepare for future success.
Mission
The mission of Girls Inc. is to empower girls to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Programs focus on education, leadership development, health, and mentorship to support girls as they grow.
A National Organization
Founded in 1864, Girls Inc. operates as a national network with affiliates across the United States and Canada. These local organizations deliver programs designed to support girls’ academic, emotional, and personal development.
Girls Inc. of Omaha
Girls Inc. of Omaha serves girls ages five to eighteen through year-round programs that include mentorship, STEM education, leadership development, and after-school support. The organization also provides meals, transportation, and additional services to help remove barriers to opportunity.
Impact
Through its programs and community partnerships, Girls Inc. helps thousands of girls each year build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and develop the tools needed to lead and succeed. NFM is proud to be a community partner of Girls Inc.