Our team is composed of dedicated and passionate individuals who share a common vision – to empower low income families and small business owners and help them thrive. Each team member brings a unique set of skills and experiences, which allows us to offer a wide range of services to the communities we serve.
Alex Cooper, our Executive Director, is the driving force behind OpenACAI Inc. With a background in social work and a passion for community empowerment, Alex has dedicated his career to helping low income families and small business owners thrive. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our mission have been instrumental in shaping our organization and the services we offer. A devoted father, Alex’s love for his son fuels his passion for our mission, inspiring him to create a better world for future generations.
As our Operations Director, Casey Jones ensures that our organization runs smoothly and efficiently. With a strong background in project management and a keen eye for detail, Casey oversees all our programs and ensures that we’re able to deliver our services effectively. A staunch supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and a dedicated women’s rights advocate, Casey’s commitment to equality and inclusivity is reflected in her work. Her dedication to our mission and her tireless advocacy for marginalized communities are key to our ability to make a positive impact.
Ronald Cooper, one of our esteemed board members, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our organization. A true jack of all trades, Ronald has had a diverse career that spans various industries. He has worked as a train guard for the railroad, co-owned and operated a gas station, provided low-income housing at a trailer court he used to own called Kings Court without any subsidy at his own expense, worked as a truck driver and heavy machinery operator, and served as the union representative for Moog Automotive in St. Louis, Missouri, where he retired from. In addition to his professional roles, Ronald has also served his community as a volunteer deputy officer for Madison County and has been a lifelong advocate for sensible and logical change in his local communities. Now at the age of 79, Ronald continues to provide valuable insights and guidance that help shape our strategic direction. His diverse experiences, commitment to community service, and his belief in the power of change are truly inspiring.
Judith Cooper, another valued board member, is a passionate advocate for social justice and community empowerment. With a background in education and community development, Judith provides valuable perspectives that help us better serve our communities. In addition to her role at OpenACAI Inc, Judith also volunteers at a food pantry at a local orphanage called the Faith Foundation, further demonstrating her commitment to serving those in need. Her dedication to our mission, her belief in the power of education and empowerment, and her hands-on involvement in community service are a constant source of inspiration for our team.
Jerry Dewayne Sample, a dedicated community leader from Fredericktown, Missouri, serves as a distinguished member of the board for OpenACAI Inc., an organization committed to optimizing potential for individuals in need through alignment, cooperation, achievement, and innovation. With a steadfast belief in service and community engagement, Jerry brings a wealth of experience and a heart for philanthropy to the board.
As an incorporator of the Semo Secular Community, a Missouri Domestic Non-Profit Corporation, Jerry has demonstrated his commitment to fostering secular values and supporting the local community. His efforts have been instrumental in maintaining the organization’s good standing and ensuring it continues to serve as a beacon of support and enlightenment1.
OpenACAI Inc. stands as a testament to Jerry’s vision of a world where every individual has access to basic needs, opportunities, and support. The organization’s mission to provide services to low-income families and small business owners aligns perfectly with Jerry’s lifelong dedication to community service2.
Jerry’s role on the board is pivotal as OpenACAI Inc. embarks on initiatives like the HOPE program, which aims to overcome homelessness through personal empowerment, and ACCESS, which leverages artificial intelligence to cultivate economic stability and self-reliance for the underserved populations.
With a background that is as compassionate as it is practical, Jerry Dewayne Sample’s presence on the OpenACAI Inc. board is not just a role, but a reflection of his unwavering commitment to making a difference—one berry at a time.
