Jonathan Jones (he/him) brings a powerful blend of technical precision, life experience, and unwavering moral clarity to his role as Founder and CEO of The Asylum Project. A former U.S. Navy nuclear reactor operator, Jonathan served aboard the SSGN 726 Ohio during its refit and major systems recertification. After an honorable discharge in 2007, he continued his career as a nuclear power plant instrumentation and control technician until he was deemed disabled by the VA healthcare system.

Now a full-time father, Jonathan could have chosen comfort and quiet. Instead, he chose purpose. In the wake of increasing political instability and threats to civil liberties in the U.S., Jonathan took decisive action. Alarmed by the fear and uncertainty expressed by his friends—particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community—he reached out to everyone he knew who might be impacted by the shifting political landscape. What he heard confirmed what he already feared: that many Americans were at risk of losing their rights, safety, and peace of mind simply for being who they are.

“I’m not wealthy,” Jonathan says, “but I have time, a stable income, and the ability to help. I couldn’t just sit by and do nothing.”

This conviction led him to establish The Asylum Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping vulnerable U.S. citizens—especially those facing oppression and systemic risk—relocate to safe, supportive environments abroad. His vision is simple yet ambitious: to create a launchpad for those in danger, offering them the guidance, housing, and community support needed to begin new lives as expats in welcoming countries.

Jonathan understands that the greatest barriers to relocation aren’t just legal—they’re emotional, financial, and logistical. His mission is to break down those barriers with compassion, clarity, and community.