Welcome to
J.K. Elder & Associates, Inc.
What Makes Us Unique
At J.K. Elder & Associates (JKEA), we are proud to be a Certified Women-Owned Small Business recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration. This designation not only amplifies our visibility in the government marketplace but also reflects our commitment to delivering tailored, client-focused solutions.
Our Expertise
With decades of experience, JKEA partners with Federal, State, and community-based organizations to design and implement strategic solutions that transform systems of care. Our expertise ensures better outcomes for the most vulnerable populations.
J.K. Elder & Associates was founded in 2006, with the mission of providing innovative, quality human service solutions that support efforts and enhance resources dedicated to improving the lives, safety, permanency, and well-being of children and families.
Mission
J.K. Elder & Associates empowers child-, family-, and community-serving organizations to create lasting social impact. We partner with leaders to build capacity, secure funding, and use data-driven strategies that elevate lived experience, advance equity, and strengthen systems of care.
Vision
Core Values
- Collaboration: We work alongside our clients to develop solutions that align with their goals and values. By fostering open communication and shared ownership, we ensure that the strategies we co-create resonate deeply with the organization’s mission.
- Innovation: Leveraging evidence-based practices and emerging trends, we design forward-thinking strategies that prepare our clients to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
- Inclusion: We center youth and family voices in every aspect of our work. By amplifying lived experiences, we ensure that programs and policies reflect the realities of those they serve, promoting equity and community relevance.
- Accountability: Transparency and measurable results are the foundation of our work. We build trust by adhering to the highest ethical standards, maintaining open communication, and consistently tracking progress. Our commitment to accountability ensures we not only meet but exceed expectations, delivering meaningful and lasting impact for our clients and their stakeholders.
- Person-Centered: We prioritize the unique needs, strengths, and aspirations of the individuals and families our clients serve. Our tailored solutions reflect a deep respect for the people and communities at the center of our clients’ missions.
- Cultural Humility: Respect, awareness, and a commitment to learning from diverse perspectives shape every aspect of our work. We strive to ensure that our recommendations are culturally relevant and responsive.
- Evidence-Based: Grounded in research and proven methodologies, our approach ensures that our clients receive solutions that are both practical and effective, driving sustainable outcomes.
Systems that are Human-Centered
“At JKEA, we envision systems that are human-centered, responsive, and deeply connected to the communities they serve – where transformation becomes the standard way of doing business.”
Jean K. Elder, Ph.D., FAAIDD
Chief Executive Officer & President
News, Insights & Resources
Beyond Awareness: Empowering Youth with Meaningful Access to Resources
Exciting News! This month’s Foster Youth Champion Blog features a powerful guest post from Amber Helmick, a dedicated lived experience advocate.
Breaking Barriers: Creating a Youth-Centered Pathway to Higher Education
Students experiencing homelessness and those who have been in foster care, the road to higher education is often filled with barriers…
LOSS: The Four-Letter Word That Shapes Foster Care Experiences
Loss—it’s a simple, four-letter word, yet it carries profound and enduring weight for youth and young adults involved in the foster care system. For many, loss isn’t a single event;
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS
Your Path to Impact Starts Here
Whether you need comprehensive systems change, grant writing support, or tailored strategies for organizational transformation, JKEA has the expertise to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s build a future together—one solution at a time.
JKEA Review Spotlight
Proven strategies resulting in sustainable systems change
“Jean Elder worked with Arrow on a RFA response for Community Based Care in Texas. Jean and her team are very informed on Community Based Care and National trends/outcomes. The J.K. Elder team was professional, knowledgeable, and helped us put our best foot forward on the Bid! Arrow has been very successful in our Community based care efforts. Jean is a trusted colleague and we often consult with each other on CBC innovations and outcomes. We would 100% recommend JKEA to anyone that is looking to up their game in the Child serving space.”
We want to hear from you!
New partnerships strengthen outcomes for children, youth, families, and communities.
Contact us today for more information about our firm and solutions.
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Let's Hear from you!
We look forward to helping you on your journey!
HEADQUARTERS
Grand Rapids, Michigan
