About Joshua
I am a community design and transformative development leader who weaves together people, institutions, and ideas to strengthen neighborhoods and regional ecosystems. I specialize in designing and stewarding cross-sector initiatives that transform bold visions into place-based strategies and systems-level impact.
My work is rooted in care for community, a belief in the power of imagination, and a commitment to building collaborative systems that make change possible.
Bio
Joshua Croke (they/them) is a designer, strategist, and facilitator advancing community and economic development at the intersections of justice, equity, and imagination. Most recently, Josh served as a Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) Fellow with MassDevelopment, leading place-based investment strategies and cross-sector collaborations in Springfield’s Mason Square District. They are also the Founder and President of Love Your Labels, a nonprofit uplifting LGBTQ+ youth and community through art, fashion, and creative expression.
Recognized among Worcester Business Journal’s Central Mass Power 50 & Power 100 and BEQ Pride Magazine’s LGBT Leaders Under 40, Josh brings proven expertise in partnership development, collective action planning, and mission design.
They serve on the boards of the Worcester Education Collaborative and UMass Chan’s Medical School’s Collaborative in Health Equity and the Corporators Board for the Worcester Art Museum and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, demonstrating their leadership across education, arts, and health sectors. Their track record reflects a deep commitment to building systems and strategies that position organizations for long-term impact and success.