Meet Our Team.
🌿 Joelle Watkins – CEO & Founder
Joelle Watkins is the CEO and Founder of Growing Connections LLC. With a strong background in leadership, operations, and community support services, Joelle is passionate about creating safe, affordable housing opportunities for individuals and families seeking stability and a fresh start. Her vision for Growing Connections is centered around compassion, structure, accountability, and helping others build long-term independence through supportive community living.
Growing Connections was built on legacy, family, and community impact. Each home within the program is named after prominent members of the founders’ families who left a lasting impact on others through leadership, compassion, service, and strength. Joelle proudly honors her mother, Annette Watkins-Rawls, through Annette’s Place, an all-women’s home inspired by Annette’s lifelong dedication to helping others and serving the community.
Joelle is dedicated to creating environments where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to move forward in life.
🤝 Jessica Turner – Co-Founder & Program Manager
Jessica Turner serves as the Co-Founder and Program Manager of Growing Connections LLC. Jessica works closely with participants, referral partners, and community resources to help ensure a smooth and supportive housing experience. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions while maintaining structure, communication, and accountability within the program.
Jessica also carries forward the legacy and family-centered mission of Growing Connections. She is the granddaughter of Robert Lee, the inspiration behind the Robert Lee House, an all-men’s home named in honor of his lasting impact, leadership, resilience, and commitment to family and community.
Together, Joelle and Jessica are committed to building more than housing — they are building a supportive community rooted in legacy, compassion, and opportunity.