Chuck Jones Announces Retirement as Executive Director of Common Wealth Charlotte
After eight years of dedicated leadership, Chuck Jones has announced his plans to retire as Executive Director of Common Wealth Charlotte (CWC), effective December 31, 2025. The organization, which provides financial education and 0%-interest loans to Charlotte’s economically-vulnerable wage earners, has flourished under his leadership.
Jones made the announcement during CWC’s Annual Meeting earlier this summer, sharing with the board that this decision comes from a place of deep gratitude and optimism and his desire to spend more time with family. He continues to be a supporter and believer in CWC’s mission.
“This decision was not made lightly,” said Jones. “I love Common Wealth Charlotte, its mission, staff and board, and serving has been a great honor. But time is our most valuable and non-renewable resource. After careful thought, Aprill and I are ready to embrace a new chapter. I’m proud to leave CWC in a position of strength, stability, and vision for the future.”
Under Jones’s guidance, CWC has grown into a nationally recognized model of financial empowerment and services. His leadership saw the expansion of programming that has helped thousands of Charlotteans move from financial crisis to stability. Through financial capability workshops, no-interest loans, and direct partnerships with area nonprofits and employers, CWC has changed lives. Stories like those who find housing stability and financial literacy after incarceration, homelessness or periods of unemployment, or others who escape financial abuse and regain control of their future are powerful testaments to the impact of Jones’s leadership.
CWC’s impact can be felt across the region. During the past decade:
30,000 people have worked with CWC.
Clients’ average credit score increased 86 points for paid-in-full Opportunity Loans.
4,600+ previously unbanked clients had $2.1 million in combined assets in checking and savings accounts.
0%-interest ,no-fee loans issued to 2,100+ clients, totaling over $1.5 million with a 93%+ repayment rate.
Relationships were fostered with 120 referring partners in Mecklenburg County.
“Chuck has been more than a leader—he's been a visionary,” said Kayla Taylor, Chair of CWC’s Board of Directors. “His commitment to equity, dignity, and financial justice has touched countless lives. The board is deeply grateful for his service and equally committed to ensuring a smooth and intentional transition. We wish him and Aprill well in their next chapter.”
CWC has engaged the executive search firm Armstrong McGuire to lead the succession planning process, with Jones collaborating closely to identify and mentor a new executive director in the coming months. He has pledged continued support throughout the transition and beyond to ensure the organization’s work continues without disruption.
To learn more about the opportunity, visit Chief Executive Officer, Common Wealth Charlotte.