Assist One Foundation was started by the late Jon R. Johnson in 2004 as a non-profit corporation in the State of California. Jon Johnson was a 24-year Photo Journalist. He worked as a cameraman, editor and producer, and was very experienced in creating powerful videos which earned him national attention with such media giants as NBC, ABC, CNN, DATELINE, and FOX NEWS. With his extensive experience in television and radio, and his contact with celebrities and community leaders, he was able to produce powerful documentaries that saw tremendous success.
Jon Johnson produced a Public Service Announcement, carried on a single Sacramento television station, which resulted in the permanent placement of 30 children – a record for the agency sponsoring the PSA.
A November 1997 news conference appealed to Sacramento families to provide care for six waiting children resulted in the adoption of each child.
On March 25th 2006 Mr. Johnson was murdered in a random shooting spree in Elk Grove California that killed two men and wounded several others. Approximately three hours before his death, Jon told wife Karen “this is going to be a great year.” He was referring to his non profit and seeing the fruits of his labor – “Assist One” – finally coming to fruition.
Six months after his tragic and untimely death, his widow Karen R. Johnson determined to keep his dream alive, revamping and restructuring the organization, and renaming it the Jon Johnson Assist One Foundation in his honor. Karen became the Chief Executive Officer and Chairwoman of the Board.
On March 26, 2007, one year and one day after Jon’s death, a press conference was held at KVIE TV station to commemorate and honor the work and vision he started.
Karen holds a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Radio, Television and Film from Long Beach State University, has over 14 years of sales experience, public speaking and customer service. She is a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer/Certified Aerobics Instructor, founder of Try 7 Fitness for Heaven Ministry and host of Try 7 Fitness workouts.