ABOUT MWCO
Community roots.
Generational vision.
Founded in 2014, Men & Women of Character Organization serves Metropolitan Trenton through character-building, practical support and community connection.
OUR MISSION
We build people—and people build strong communities.
MWCO brings youth, adults and elders together through programs, services, workshops and special events. We meet people with dignity, create opportunities to lead and keep community wisdom moving from one generation to the next.
Our approach is grassroots, relationship-centered and responsive to the realities facing families across the Metropolitan Trenton area.
OUR STORY
It started in a home.
It grew into a movement.
MWCO was not born in a boardroom. It began as a Saturday club created by Donyale N. Thompson, Montise Fields and Sarah L. Warner—friends opening a home and making room for young people to learn, connect and grow.
After years of youth mentoring and community service, Donyale recognized that Trenton families needed more consistent, intergenerational support. With the help of Chaneta Ruby Leonard, she established Men & Women of Character Organization, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, in 2014. She invited Sarah L. Warner to join the organization and also received input and support from Danielle McCrary.
Today, the original blueprint remains: people of character showing up for youth, strengthening families, supporting adults and honoring elders. Through volunteers, partners and practical service, MWCO connects generations and helps community wisdom, leadership and compassion keep moving forward.
FOUNDER’S MESSAGE
“The vision continues through the people entrusted to carry it forward.”
Donyale N. Thompson founded MWCO with a clear blueprint: bring generations together through character, leadership, compassion and practical community support.
She has stepped back from full active participation to focus on her health while remaining a guiding presence who helps ensure the mission, purpose and values stay true to that blueprint. She is grateful—and deeply blessed—to have a volunteer leadership team that continues the work with dedication, care and integrity.
Donyale N. ThompsonFounder & Executive Director
“People deserve more than promises. They deserve a community that shows up.”
Lila C. Jones · Director of Operations & Administration
SHARING OUR RUBY
A legacy that
lives on.
The Sharing Our Ruby Project honors the life, love and lasting legacy of MWCO co-founder Chaneta Ruby Leonard. Her generous spirit lives through every hygiene item, article of clothing, children’s supply and helping hand shared with a neighbor in need.
See Sharing Our Ruby in action ↗LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE
People who lead
with heart.
MWCO is guided by community-minded leaders committed to responsible stewardship, transparency and service across generations.
Meet the staff and board members who steward MWCO’s programs, operations and governance.
Meet our team →