A Community Rooted in Prevention, Wellness, and Connection
Founded in 2021, Willow entered its active development and launch phase in 2026. The organization is building the leadership, partnerships, programs, and infrastructure needed to create sustainable community impact.
Our Beginning
Willow Health & Wellness Center was founded in 2021 from a vision to create a more connected, compassionate approach to community wellness—one in which prevention, education, natural and holistic wellness, and community support work together rather than exist in isolation.
In 2026, Willow entered its active development and launch phase, building the leadership, partnerships, programs, and infrastructure needed to transform that vision into sustainable community impact.
Today, we are planting the foundation.
Rooted in Purpose
Willow Health & Wellness Center was not created simply to provide programs or services. It was created with purpose—to help people feel supported, informed, empowered, and connected through the many seasons of life.
We believe health does not begin and end in a doctor’s office. It is shaped by our homes, families, everyday choices, environments, and communities—and by whether we have access to the knowledge, resources, and support needed to live well.
That’s why Willow exists.
Like the willow tree, life brings seasons that require us to bend, adapt, heal, and begin again. Health challenges, caregiving, loss, stress, aging, financial hardship, and new beginnings can change the course of our lives. In those moments, people need more than instructions about what they should do. They need knowledge, resources, compassionate support, and community to help them move forward.
Through prevention, education, evidence-informed natural and holistic wellness practices, and community connection, Willow meets people where they are and helps create pathways toward sustainable well-being.
Our Willow Model of Care™—Root, Restore, Renew, Rise, and Reach—reflects that journey. We begin by helping establish stability and access. We support restoration and balance. We provide knowledge that empowers healthier choices. We strengthen resilience through connection. And ultimately, we reach beyond the individual toward something greater: healthier families, stronger communities, and generational change.
We believe wellness should not be a privilege. Everyone deserves the opportunity to understand their health, participate in their well-being, and have support along the journey.
Willow is still growing. Our roots are being planted, our partnerships are being formed, and our story is being written—but our purpose is clear.
We are not simply building an organization. We are planting something we hope will outlive us.
A healthier choice can change a life.
A healthier life can strengthen a family.
A stronger family can influence a community.
And a healthier community can change generations.
That is why Willow does this work.
Rooted in purpose. Growing through service. Building a legacy of health—one person, one family, and one community at a time.
Mission
To strengthen community health by expanding access to preventive health education, natural healing, holistic wellness practices, and supportive resources that empower individuals and families to navigate life transitions, restore balance, build resilience, and achieve sustainable well-being.
Vision
To cultivate healthier, more resilient communities where every individual and family has equitable access to compassionate support, preventive health resources, and evidence-informed natural and holistic wellness practices that nurture physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being across every stage of life.
The Willow Philosophy
At Willow Health & Wellness Center, we believe true health is the balance of mind, body, spirit, and community. Through preventive health education, evidence-informed natural and holistic wellness practices, and compassionate support, we empower individuals and families to navigate life’s transitions, build resilience, and achieve sustainable well-being.
Like the willow tree, we believe in the power to adapt, renew, and grow—strengthening lives today while building a legacy of health for generations to come.
Core Values
Compassion & Dignity
We meet individuals and families where they are, serving with empathy, respect, and compassion throughout every stage and transition of life.
Natural & Holistic Wellness
We honor the connection between mind, body, spirit, lifestyle, and environment by incorporating responsible, evidence-informed natural healing and holistic wellness practices that support balance and overall well-being.
Prevention & Education
We believe healthier communities begin with knowledge. We promote health literacy, preventive practices, and informed decision-making that empower individuals to take an active role in their health.
Accessibility & Equity
We work to reduce barriers to health and wellness resources and expand equitable access to education, support, and services, particularly for underserved and vulnerable communities.
Community Empowerment
We listen to the communities we serve and provide tools, resources, and opportunities that strengthen individuals and families, encourage self-sufficiency, and create sustainable pathways toward better health.
Collaboration & Connection
We believe lasting change happens together. We cultivate meaningful partnerships with community organizations, healthcare professionals, businesses, and other stakeholders to strengthen resources and expand collective impact.
Integrity & Accountability
We lead with transparency, ethical responsibility, and responsible stewardship while remaining accountable to our community, partners, supporters, and mission.
Growth, Resilience & Renewal
We support individuals and communities in transforming challenges into opportunities for renewed health and resilience.
The People Guiding Willow
Simona Jones-Means
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Simona Jones-Means is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Willow Health & Wellness Center, leading the organization’s commitment to preventive health, wellness resources, and community-centered care. She brings a multidisciplinary background spanning healthcare, clinical research, insurance, and organizational leadership. She is a doctoral candidate at Walden University and is pursuing a Doctorate in Natural Medicine.
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Simona Jones-Means is the Founder and CEO of Willow Health & Wellness Center, where she leads with a commitment to advancing preventive health, expanding access to wellness resources, and strengthening individuals and families through community-centered care. With a multidisciplinary background spanning healthcare, clinical research, insurance, wellness, and organizational leadership, she brings a whole-health perspective to addressing the evolving needs of communities.
Simona is a doctoral candidate at Walden University in Health Sciences with a concentration in Public Policy and is pursuing a Doctorate in Natural Medicine (DNM) through Rockwell School of Holistic Medicine. Her educational and professional journey reflects her commitment to bridging health education, preventive wellness, natural approaches, and community health advocacy.
Her vision for Willow is grounded in the belief that healthier individuals strengthen families and create healthier communities. Through the Willow Model of Care™, she is developing sustainable pathways that move individuals from stabilization to empowerment while building a lasting legacy of health for future generations.
In recognition of her leadership, service, and commitment to community impact, Simona was named a 2026 Influential Women honoree.
Dr. Joseph S. Brown Jr., CFEd®
Board of Directors, Vice Chair
Dr. Joseph S. Brown Jr., CFEd®, is a U.S. Army veteran, educator, entrepreneur, and strategic business advisor with more than 30 years of leadership experience across military service, healthcare, financial education, and community development. A 23-year Army veteran who attained the rank of Sergeant First Class, he is a doctoral candidate in Leadership and Change at Antioch University. As Board of Directors — Vice Chair, he brings strategic leadership to advancing Willow’s mission.
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Dr. Joseph S. Brown Jr., CFEd®, is a U.S. Army veteran, educator, entrepreneur, and strategic business advisor with more than 30 years of leadership experience across military service, healthcare, financial education, insurance and benefits, digital strategy, and community development.
A 23-year Army veteran who attained the rank of Sergeant First Class, Dr. Brown brings a distinguished commitment to leadership, service, resilience, and legacy-building. He is a doctoral candidate in Leadership and Change at Antioch University and serves in executive and advisory roles focused on financial education, business development, technology literacy, wellness, and sustainable growth.
As Board of Directors — Vice Chair, Dr. Brown brings strategic leadership and a passion for empowering families, entrepreneurs, veterans, and communities through education, access, collaboration, and sustainable solutions that advance the mission of Willow Health & Wellness Center.
Anya Means
Board of Directors, Secretary
Anya Means serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors for Willow Health & Wellness Center, bringing experience in leadership, staff training, operations, customer service, and culinary arts. She is currently pursuing a degree in Childhood Education at the University of Phoenix, with plans to also pursue an Associate degree in Culinary Arts. As Board Secretary, she supports the organization through recordkeeping, meeting documentation, and governance support.
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Anya Means serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors for Willow Health & Wellness Center, bringing experience in leadership, staff training, operations, customer service, and culinary arts to the organization.
Anya is currently attending the University of Phoenix, where she is pursuing a degree in Childhood Education, reflecting her interest in supporting the development and well-being of children and families. She also plans to attend Wake Technical Community College to pursue an Associate degree in Culinary Arts, further developing her passion for food, nutrition, creativity, and service.
Her professional background includes management and employee training experience with McDonald’s, where she was responsible for opening and closing operations, financial accountability, and training new employees. She also gained culinary experience as a Pastry Sous Chef/Sous Chef at Hope Valley Country Club, where she worked across pastry preparation and food-service operations.
As Board Secretary, Anya supports the organization through accurate recordkeeping, meeting documentation, board communication, organization, and governance support. Her developing background in childhood education also brings a valuable perspective as Willow expands programming designed to strengthen children, families, and future generations.
Anya’s service reflects Willow’s belief that building healthier communities requires investing not only in the health of individuals today, but also in the education, nourishment, development, and well-being of the next generation.
Valerie L. Mondie
Board Director, Senior Health, Compliance & Community Care
Valerie L. Mondie is an experienced senior care administrator, nonprofit founder, licensed health insurance professional, and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to improving the health, dignity, and quality of life of older adults. As Founder of Leo Project, Inc., she brings expertise in assisted living administration, regulatory compliance, and compassionate care management. She holds a degree in Business Administration from Southern University and served six years of active duty in the U.S. Army.
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Valerie Lynn Mondie is an experienced senior care administrator, nonprofit founder, licensed health insurance professional, and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to improving the health, dignity, and quality of life of older adults.
As Founder of Leo Project, Inc., Valerie brings expertise in assisted living administration, regulatory compliance, staff leadership, and compassionate care management. She also specializes in health insurance and Medicare Advantage, helping seniors better understand and navigate their healthcare coverage options.
Valerie holds a degree in Business Administration from Southern University and served six years of active duty in the United States Army. Her leadership, healthcare knowledge, and commitment to service strengthen Willow’s mission of advancing accessible, community-centered health and wellness across the lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Willow Health & Wellness Center a medical clinic or treatment provider?
No. Willow is a community-based nonprofit focused on preventive health education, whole-person wellness, and resource navigation. Willow does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease, and does not currently operate a medical clinic, hospital, or physical treatment facility. See our Health & Educational Disclaimer for more detail.
Does Willow have a physical building or office people can visit?
Not yet. Willow's Wellness Beyond the Walls approach means programming happens where the community already is—through partner organizations, outreach events, and virtual connection—rather than from a permanent facility.
Is Willow a registered nonprofit?
Yes. Willow Health & Wellness Center is a North Carolina nonprofit and IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organization, founded in 2021.
Are donations to Willow tax-deductible?
Willow Health & Wellness Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. See Support Our Mission for current giving options.
How can I get involved with Willow?
There are several ways to help as Willow grows—volunteering, partnering as an organization, supporting Willow financially, or bringing Willow's programming to your community. Visit the Get Involved page for details on each.
How do I contact Willow, and how quickly will I hear back?
Email willowhealthandwellnesscenter@gmail.com or call 919-675-4306. Willow aims to respond within 1–2 business days.
Willow Is Still Being Built—By People Like You
If Willow’s mission speaks to you, there are meaningful ways to get involved as we grow.