Johnnie L. Campbell Jr., better known throughout Champaign-Urbana as “JROC,” is a community connector, mentor, entrepreneur, and servant leader whose work has consistently brought people together.
For more than twenty years, Johnnie has been known as a successful event planner and promoter, creating spaces where people could gather, celebrate, network, and connect. His ability to bring people from different backgrounds into the same room has made him a familiar and respected presence in the community.
Beyond events, Johnnie’s heart for people is seen through his commitment to service. He is the founder of COFT Cares, a nonprofit organization focused on homeless outreach, feeding programs, clothing drives, and monthly hygiene distribution efforts throughout the Champaign-Urbana area. Through COFT Cares, Johnnie has helped meet real needs while reminding individuals and families that they are seen, valued, and supported.
Johnnie is also the founder of COFT Apparel Company, a brand he has built over the last six years. COFT stands for “Connoisseur Of The Finer Things,” representing a mindset of confidence, purpose, growth, and elevation while staying connected to one’s roots.
For the past decade, Johnnie has also worked at the University of Illinois as a Building Service Worker, where he is known for his consistency, hard work, and dedication. In every space he enters, whether through his career, his business, his nonprofit work, or his community relationships, Johnnie leads with presence, generosity, and a genuine desire to see people come together.
His influence extends especially to young people, many of whom look to him for guidance, encouragement, and support. Johnnie has served as a mentor to youth navigating difficult paths, offering wisdom, accountability, and a reminder that their future can be greater than their circumstances.
Johnnie “JROC” Campbell reflects the spirit of the Community Unity Award through his ability to build bridges, create meaningful connections, and bring people together for a greater purpose. His work continues to strengthen unity, service, and collaboration throughout Champaign-Urbana.
For more than twenty years, Johnnie has been known as a successful event planner and promoter, creating spaces where people could gather, celebrate, network, and connect. His ability to bring people from different backgrounds into the same room has made him a familiar and respected presence in the community.
Beyond events, Johnnie’s heart for people is seen through his commitment to service. He is the founder of COFT Cares, a nonprofit organization focused on homeless outreach, feeding programs, clothing drives, and monthly hygiene distribution efforts throughout the Champaign-Urbana area. Through COFT Cares, Johnnie has helped meet real needs while reminding individuals and families that they are seen, valued, and supported.
Johnnie is also the founder of COFT Apparel Company, a brand he has built over the last six years. COFT stands for “Connoisseur Of The Finer Things,” representing a mindset of confidence, purpose, growth, and elevation while staying connected to one’s roots.
For the past decade, Johnnie has also worked at the University of Illinois as a Building Service Worker, where he is known for his consistency, hard work, and dedication. In every space he enters, whether through his career, his business, his nonprofit work, or his community relationships, Johnnie leads with presence, generosity, and a genuine desire to see people come together.
His influence extends especially to young people, many of whom look to him for guidance, encouragement, and support. Johnnie has served as a mentor to youth navigating difficult paths, offering wisdom, accountability, and a reminder that their future can be greater than their circumstances.
Johnnie “JROC” Campbell reflects the spirit of the Community Unity Award through his ability to build bridges, create meaningful connections, and bring people together for a greater purpose. His work continues to strengthen unity, service, and collaboration throughout Champaign-Urbana.
Previous Honoree:
2024 - Herbert Burnett
2025 - Damen Rowell
2024 - Herbert Burnett
2025 - Damen Rowell