Jon Smalls

I am a native son of the Freewoods community in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, deeply connected to my Gullah Geechee heritage and the Smalls family lineage. I grew up watching my father farm sugar cane, serve the community, and navigate local leadership—planting the seeds that shaped my passion for agriculture, wellness, and service. After earning collegiate basketball scholarships and studying Liberal Arts, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where I deployed to Afghanistan, rose quickly through the ranks, and earned multiple commendations for leadership, logistics management, and operational excellence. During active duty, I completed a certified hydroponics agriculture program through San Marcos College and successfully launched a veteran-led agribusiness, Cane Patch Pies, featured on national media.

Over the years I have built a diverse career that merges farming, wellness, youth mentorship, and entrepreneurship. I co-managed a successful produce business, served as the produce manager for Chops Produce in Conway, and later leased 2.5 acres of family land to establish Grand Beginnings Organic Farm, where I practiced sustainable agriculture and community education. I also owned and operated a cold-pressed juice business in Murrells Inlet, providing healthy options during COVID. My nonprofit work included founding Buddy Bo Inc., where I supported families, youth, schools, and law enforcement through outreach events and resource distribution.

As a holistic health practitioner, massage therapist, fitness trainer, and youth sports coach, I have spent the last several years educating the community on wellness, self-sustainability, and healthy living. I have trained hundreds of youth, launched successful fitness programs at Sky Fitness 24/7, and continue to lead wellness initiatives across Horry County. With lived experience in agriculture, community service, youth development, and business management, I bring a grounded, mission-driven approach to leadership—rooted in my culture, my family land, and my commitment to uplifting the Freewoods community.