The Baltimore Times

For 21-year-old Malenga Taylor, describing Holifield wasn't easy.

"I would say the correct word for her... unique." After another moment of thought, she settled on another description: "Rare. Definitely rare."

The Baltimore Times proudly honors the life and legacy of Joni Holifield, founder and executive director of HeartSmiles who died June 2026. She was a visionary leader, mentor and tireless advocate for Baltimore’s young people. In this special tribute, The Baltimore Times interns reflect on Holifield’s impact, s...

Born and raised in West Baltimore, Joni Holifield devoted her life to giving back. Growing up with a 21217 zip code, Joni hated the state of Baltimore and the negativity from the drugs, violence, and death.

Joni decided to create a non-profit after l...

The Baltimore Times interviewed a group of wonderful people to provide insight into Ms. Joni Holifield. Joni was more than a mentor; she was a leader, a mother figure, and an advocate, a source of hope for many young people with dreams growing up in Baltimore. Her aspirations, grit, and powerful life lessons cont...

Mama Sherry "Sherry Holifield

Joni always honored and respected me as her mother and was fiercely loyal to her family. Although Joni did not give birth physically, she birthed many chi...