

MEET THE TEAM
tHE hEARTS BEHIND THE PURPOSE

Meet the people who help bring the mission of Love + Purpose Foundation to life. United by a heart for service, our team is committed to creating meaningful opportunities, strengthening communities, and turning love into action.

Founder & President
AUDRIA JONES
Audria Jones is the Founder and President of The Love + Purpose Foundation, where she leads with compassion, faith, and a commitment to helping individuals and families feel seen, supported, valued, and loved. With a background in psychology, real estate, and community leadership, Audria is especially passionate about childhood literacy, family support, and creating meaningful opportunities that empower underserved communities.

Co-Founder & Treasurer
DEREK HARPER, JR.
Derek Harper Jr. is a community-minded leader, entrepreneur, REALTOR®, coach, and Clark Atlanta University graduate. A former collegiate basketball player, he brings lessons of discipline, resilience, teamwork, and leadership into his service to others. Through Love + Purpose Foundation, Derek is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for youth and families and helping people recognize the purpose and potential within themselves.

Community & Program Development Advisor
SYLVIA B. STURGIS
Sylvia B. Sturgis is a servant-leader and experienced educator committed to literacy, equity, mentoring, and whole-child development. Her extensive background spans K–12 education, educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, trauma-informed practice, and district-level service. Through compassionate, equity-centered leadership, Sylvia is dedicated to creating environments where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to achieve excellence.

Secretary
MIA HARMON
Mia Harmon is an Atlanta native and dedicated elementary educator with more than 10 years of classroom experience. She holds a master’s degree and certifications in Elementary Education and K–12 Reading. As an educator and head coach of the College Park Golden Tigerettes, Mia is passionate about literacy, mentorship, youth development, and helping children build confidence, discover their gifts, and reach their full potential.

Director of Youth Engagement
AMARIYA "MARI" LAMBERT
Amariya “Mari” Lambert is a Forensics major at Albany State University with a passion for learning, service, and creating a purpose-filled future. A former varsity softball and track athlete and member of the 2026 Senior Debutante Class, Mari has also served through Habitat for Humanity. She brings resilience, discipline, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact within her community.

