About Us

About One Body One Source (OBOS)

One Body One Source (OBOS) — formally known as the Nehemiah Economic Development Association — is a North Carolina–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering opportunity youth and underserved communities through workforce development, mentorship, education, and holistic support services.

Founded in 2022 by Tirrell Summers, MBA, a U.S. Navy veteran and community leader, OBOS was established to address a critical gap affecting many families: the lack of structured mentorship, career pathways, and access to skill-based training for youth facing socioeconomic hardship.

Since its founding, OBOS has evolved from a mentorship-focused organization into a multi-program economic development and workforce platform, operating in partnership with community leaders, educators, faith institutions, and industry professionals throughout Eastern North Carolina.

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Proven Impact

Krafty Academy Apprenticeship Program

The Krafty Academy Apprenticeship Program was developed in response to two intersecting challenges identified by OBOS leadership and community stakeholders:

Persistent labor shortages in skilled trades
Limited access to training pathways for individuals impacted by poverty, justice involvement, or educational disruption

The program was spearheaded through board-level planning and community consultation led by Ken Jones, Vice President of OBOS, whose own experience as a former construction apprentice informed the design of a practical, accessible apprenticeship pathway.

Krafty Academy focuses on:

Workforce readiness and pre-apprenticeship training
Construction and skilled trades exposure
Mentorship and character development
Employment pipelines aligned with local labor needs

Krafty Academy reflects OBOS’s commitment to meeting community needs with solutions rooted in lived experience, accountability, and economic dignity.

man in orange and black vest wearing white helmet holding yellow and black power tool

Youth Mentoring

We offer mentoring programs for at-risk youth to help them develop life skills, pursue education and career opportunities, and stay on a positive path. Mentors provide guidance and support to help young people reach their full potential.