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.
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.
Willow Philosophy
Willow believes lasting health grows the way a willow tree does—from strong roots, through patient seasons of restoration and renewal, toward a canopy wide enough to shelter a whole community. That philosophy shapes the Willow Model of Care™ and every program Willow is building.
Core Values
Compassion & Dignity
Natural & Holistic Wellness
Prevention & Education
Accessibility & Equity
Community Empowerment
Collaboration & Connection
Integrity & Accountability
Growth, Resilience & Renewal
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.
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.