Who We Are
About Us
A faith-driven nonprofit rooted in James 2:14–26 — mobilizing young people to serve their communities with action, not just words.
"Faith without works is dead."
James 2:20
Our Mission
Faith Expressed Through Service
The 20 Foundation exists to cultivate a youth ministry where faith in Jesus Christ is lived out through service. We seek to demonstrate God's love not only in word but through compassionate action — sharing the Gospel while mobilizing young people to serve their communities.
Our Vision
A Generation Rooted in Both Belief and Action
We envision a generation of young believers who don't just profess their faith but prove it — through sacrifice, service, and a relentless love for those on the margins. A generation for whom James 2:14–26 is not just a passage, but a way of life.
How It Started
Our Story
Former Major League Baseball veteran and two-time World Series champion Howard Johnson has long been passionate about investing in the lives of young people through baseball. As the founder of HoJo Baseball, a Middle Tennessee-based travel baseball organization, Howard has witnessed firsthand the powerful impact mentorship and community can have on youth both on and off the field. Through these experiences, God placed a deeper calling on his heart: to reach the next generation not only through athletics, but through the life-changing message of the Gospel.
Inspired by James 2:14–26, Howard and his team established The 20 Foundation with a mission rooted in faith and service. Together, they developed a ministry that reflects the belief that faith is demonstrated through action. By combining a passion for sports, discipleship, and serving others, The 20 Foundation seeks to create meaningful opportunities for young people to experience the love of Christ in tangible ways.
At the heart of The 20 Foundation is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to both hear and experience the love of Jesus Christ. Through hands-on outreach initiatives and ministry programs, our team is committed to sharing the Gospel message while actively serving communities in need.
The Gospel—the message of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection that offers eternal life through Him—is central to everything we do. We strive to both SHARE the Gospel through ministry programs and discipleship opportunities, and SHOW the Gospel through compassionate service and outreach efforts. To learn more about these initiatives, visit our Programs page.
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
Compassion
We serve with the love of Christ — meeting people where they are and responding to real needs with genuine care and presence.
Action
Faith without works is dead. We believe that belief must be expressed through tangible, sacrificial service to others.
Purpose
Every program, every volunteer hour, and every dollar is directed toward a clear mission: sharing the Gospel and serving those in need.
Integrity
We operate with transparency and accountability — stewarding every resource entrusted to us with honesty and faithfulness.