ArkBuilders Inc.
ArkBuilders Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building strong, healthy, affirming communities for children and their families across Central Ohio. As communities of color continue to move into Columbus-area suburbs, ArkBuilders meets families where they are — partnering with faith groups, schools, community organizations, and social agencies to strengthen youth, families, and neighborhoods. Our mission is simple: save the children by strengthening the family and the community.
Our Vision
To build and equip a world of healthy, inclusive, and prosperous communities
Our Mission
Our Mission is to connect and build communities through education, innovation, and collaboration.
Our Values
Community: Engaging and empowering individuals, families, and neighborhoods to be healthy and discover their purpose.
Collaboration: Building authentic relationships within the community to move forward ArkBuilders mission.
Strength- based: Believing in the best in every person we serve.
Education: Equipping and empowering others with knowledge and resources to build health communities.
Excellence: Providing high quality exceptional service.
Diversity and Inclusion: Promoting, celebrating and participating with all individuals and groups.
Innovation: Applying novel solutions to meaningful challenges.
Executive Director
George A. Hicks III, OCPC, ICPS
George is the executive director of ArkBuilders and an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant. George has over 40 years of experience in program development. He coordinates programs both in schools and community settings. George works to identify the prevention needs of target populations. He facilitates a variety of presentations and training sessions in community settings. George has extensive experience working with urban youth in Franklin County, Ohio. He is an Ohio adult ally for youth-led programs. He is currently partners with NAMI Franklin County, Reynoldsburg city schools, Central State University, Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) City of Columbus Recreation and Parks, Maryhaven Gambling Intervention Program, Columbus Health Department, Be the Village Ohio, Lead the Way Learning Academy, Bantu Hope Foundation, Ohio Center of Excellence, Capital University, TTJ Group LLC, and SheRay’s & Associates and Community Organizations.
Co-Principal
Jason Jenkins
Jason Jenkins is Co-Principal of ArkBuilders Inc. and has worked alongside George Hicks for years in building successful youth development and prevention programs across Central Ohio. His work spans the W.A.I.T. Inc., EBONY Boys Program, Lifeline National Basketball Inc., Ohio State University Young Scholars Program, Franklin County Juvenile Court Diversion Program, and the SUN Program at Whitehall High School — among many others. Jason brings deep experience in youth mentorship, program design, and community engagement, with a particular focus on equipping young men with the skills, structure, and relationships they need to thrive. He partners with George in shaping ArkBuilders’ program strategy, partner relationships, and on-the-ground delivery.
Editor’s note: A full version of Jason’s bio with credentials, education, and a headshot will be added shortly.
