Jojo Franklin was born and raised in Denver, Colorado. She is the youngest sibling of 4 and has all older brothers, including a twin brother. Jojo grew up in Park Hill, Denver, and enjoyed playing sports throughout her childhood and adolescence. She attended Kent Denver School and graduated in 2014. She then proceeded to Goucher College in Maryland to further her athletic and academic pursuits. Jojo then transferred and finished her academic and athletic career at Wofford College in South Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and was an integral member of starting Wofford College’s first Women’s lacrosse program. Following college Jojo moved to Memphis, where she pursued her passion for bettering the community by working with at-risk youth in group homes and working with youth and families in the home to provide family and individual counseling. COVID hit, and Jojo struggled with the isolation, especially being so far from family, that she eventually returned to Denver. Once in Denver, Jojo worked with children on the autism spectrum as a behavioral technician before transitioning over to social work for Arapahoe County. Jojo has always had an affinity for social justice and addressing barriers to equity, inclusion, and a more just environment. Jojo is motivated to do this work for various important reasons but mainly due to past wrongdoings that her ancestors experienced as well as personal, lived experiences of racism and oppression. Through formal education and word-of-mouth communication from peers in her community, Jojo gained a deeper understanding of institutional structures that uphold oppressive systems. She believes these structures need to be dismantled and rebuilt with the needs of common, working-class people at the forefront. In doing this work, Jojo hopes to collaborate with communities of all demographics to help create a more accessible, equitable, and happy environment for all. So everyone can be their authentic selves and create more loving and hopeful spaces to grow and thrive. She advocates for leaving the world better for the next generation. Hobbies: “ I love to cook and bake. I like to be an international eater and explore foods and recipes that are nurturing, fulfilling, and delicious. I have a huge family, and I love to spend time with them. We love to have Sunday dinner at my grandma’s and spill tea about our week. I also love sports and fitness, and I volunteer my time as a coach for Denver City lax and love coaching/ training kids. Additionally, I enjoy hiking, skiing, lacrosse, and the outdoors in general. Lastly, I like anything creative, painting, ceramics, sculpting, and doodling.