480 News Coverage :

https://www.localdvm.com/sports/480-club-founder-joseph-hooks-hoping-to-build-on-foundation-of-program-and-make-positive-impact-in-community/

 

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Joseph Hooks is a dedicated youth development leader, program strategist, and nonprofit founder with more than a decade of experience serving young people and families across Montgomery County. His work spans community engagement, recreation, education, mentoring, and systems-level advocacy — all rooted in a deep commitment to equity, empowerment, and opportunity.

As Founder and Executive Director of The 480 Club, Joseph built a mission-driven organization focused on sports, recreation, mentorship, and out-of-school time enrichment. Under his leadership, the 480 Club has delivered high-impact programming across multiple MCPS schools and community sites, strengthened academic and social-emotional outcomes for youth, and cultivated long-standing relationships with local partners, funders, and government agencies.

Joseph also leads 480 Cares Inc., a nonprofit created to eliminate access barriers such as transportation and to expand opportunities for youth participation. Through grantmaking, partnerships, and student support programs, 480 Cares has provided resources, coaching, and enrichment to students and families navigating social, academic, and economic challenges.

Across his career, Joseph has held key roles with organizations including:

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• Watkins Mill Wellness Center – Youth Development Specialist

• Latin American Youth Center (LAYC/MMYC) – Managing Director

• CollegeTracks – College Success Coach & Program Manager

• Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County – Student Success Coach

• Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office – Program Specialist & Truancy Prevention Coordinator

• Montgomery County Recreation Department – Youth Site Director

• Maryland Department of Juvenile Services – Recreation Specialist

• National Center for Children & Families – School Liaison & Recreation Specialist

His experience includes managing multimillion-dollar contracts and grants, designing and implementing youth programs across schools and community settings, leading diverse staff teams, building multi-agency partnerships, and advocating for policies that support young people, particularly African American and at-promise youth.

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Joseph is also a trusted community voice, serving through advisory roles and leadership programs such as:

• Leadership Montgomery – Emerging Leaders

• Leadership Greater Washington – Rising Leaders

• Montgomery County Sports Advisory Committee

• Montgomery County Anti-Hate Task Force

• Montgomery County Parent Action Committee

• Commission on Children and Youth (former member)

Awards & Recognitions

Joseph’s commitment to service and youth empowerment has been honored locally and nationally, including:

• Dr. MLK Peacemaker Award – DHHS Street Outreach Network (2023)

• Finest Under 40 – Shepherd University Alumni Association (2021)

• Black History Month “Change Maker” – Montgomery County Council (2021)

• Emerging Employee Volunteer Program Award – Leadership Montgomery (2021)

• Black History Month Community Leader Award – Maryland Governor’s Office on Service & Volunteerism (2019)

• Outstanding Service to Youth Organization Award – Montgomery County Commission on Children & Youth (2018)

• Distinguished Service to Public Education Award – Montgomery County Board of Education (2017)

A graduate of Shepherd University, Joseph holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation & Leisure Studies and is a former Shepherd Football Team Captain and All-Conference athlete. His leadership on the field shaped his passion for mentorship, teamwork, and using sports as a tool for youth development.

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Today, Joseph continues to advance The 480 Club’s mission while supporting broader systems-level change through public service, coaching, and community partnerships. His work reflects a lifelong dedication to uplifting young people, strengthening families, and building communities where every child can navigate a path to success.

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