The Women We Serve
Strengthening Communities and Shaping Our Future
The heart of our community is the extraordinary women we serve - nonprofit leaders with a common goal of improving our neighborhoods and helping young people grow, learn and show love. These women are compassionate and dedicated to delivering programs that educate and nurture tomorrow's changemakers.
Here we are highlighting the impact and innovation of the nonprofits that makeup the DevoCenter community. We are proud of their continued efforts and grateful for the opportunity to support their work. As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognize the strength of the collective, the power of a network that comes together to uplift and propel each other forward. Continue reading to learn about and support these amazing ladies.
If you're interested in joining us we have a free meetup in December and we're now accepting applications for next year's mastermind group.
Community News | Who We Serve
Catisha Toney | Coates College and Career Services
Coates Inc was inducted into the Society of Innovators at Purdue University Northwest. The organization was recognized for advancing higher education and demonstrating a commitment to empowering students by meeting them where they are on the Coates College and Career Mobile Office.
Through the Mobile Office Coates Inc provides students with the guidance and resources needed to make informed decisions about their academic and career paths. Learn More
The Coates Inc vision is educational equity for under-served communities so that all students can attain college and career success. Their mission is to deliver programs that provide students with equal educational opportunities, college and career resources, and solid connections to the community.
Jaimie Cloud | The Cloud Institute for Sustainability Education
The Cloud Institute is collaborating with the National Park Service to assist educators in their efforts to educate for sustainability. Participants from all over the country are attending a week-long Curriculum Design Studio to innovate, build, and map curriculum that meets relevant standards, while exploring contemporary ideas in Education for Sustainability (EfS). The Cloud Institute believes that the unique challenges that define our time require fundamentally new ways of thinking. They are preparing school systems and their communities to educate for a sustainable future through meaningful content and learner-centered instruction. Learn More
Valarie Johnson | Marcy Houses Memorial Scholarship Fund
Marcy Houses Memorial Scholarship Fund (MHMSF) exists to encourage and motivate post-secondary students from the Marcy Houses in Brooklyn, NY, and strategize with them to complete a course of study. The organization provides financial support and mentorship to college and trade school students who live in the Marcy Houses. Recognizing the need to support the social-emotional well-being of students, MHMSF recently partnered with Love and Kindness Wellness Services to provide a workshop and safe space for their scholars to unpack their emotions, learn about and practice mindfulness, and navigate the hurtful impacts of inequity and other hardships. The organization is actively seeking workshop leaders and volunteer mentors who are interested in positively impacting the lives of Marcy Houses students. Learn More
Mama Fela Barclift | Little Sun People
Little Sun People is a culturally focused early childhood education center with a mission to provide young children with a strong foundation in their African heritage while offering comprehensive and high-quality curriculum. Founded in 1980 by Fela Barclift ("Mama Fela"), LSP places a strong emphasis on instilling a sense of pride, cultural identity, and social competency in its students. This year Mama Fela was honored by artist Kholisile Dhliwayo as part of his Brooklyn Bronzes installation at The Museum of Contemporary African Diaspora Arts. To commemorate the sculpture series Mama Fela discusses her legacy and roots in Bed-Stuy and the importance of early childhood education to realize the full potential of young minds. Learn More.
Erika Perry | Youth Talk United
Youth Talk United has a brand new website but their dedication to young people in Alabama remains the same. The organization is committed to empowering youth through sports, mental fitness and community service. They are encouraging and equipping young people to manage their emotions, express themselves in positive ways, and take the lead in caring for their neighborhoods. Youth Talk United founder Erika Perry has been facilitating discussions with youth about self awareness, resilience and helping athletes take control of their mental game. Learn More
Aynda M. Kanyama-Jackson | TSK Preparatory Academy
TSK Prep provides African centered and culturally proficient education to high school students in Atlanta, GA. The independent school focuses on creative arts and media technology, and is committed to scholarship, family, community and a standard of excellence. TSK is once again partnering with Kilombo to celebrate African-centered excellence at the 4th Annual Educate to Liberate Virtual Celebration on December 2nd! This event delivers entertainment and reflections for the whole family. The online experience is physical, spiritual, intellectual and communal. Educate to Liberate is one of the key fundraising events of the academic year. The money raised is put towards student scholarships, teacher compensation and program essentials. Learn More
Niesha Ham-McMillian | Marnie LEADS Academy
Founded by Dr. Niesha Ham-McMillian, Marnie LEADS Academy provides enrichment and after-school programs to students of all ages. The academy aims to foster positive relationships between students and adult mentors while developing their academic and social-emotional skills. Through their programs, young people are adapting to new technologies and demonstrating their ability to research and develop plans for their future as leaders and entrepreneurs. Students are thriving in a collaborative learning environments that empowers them to build, create, and communicate effectively. Marnie LEADS programs promote leadership, creativity, and community service. Their October Fall Harvest Festival had games, food, arts and crafts, and an opportunity to connect and celebrate with parents and students. Learn More.
Our Next Free Meetup
We host quarterly meetups with the next free event happening in December. We'll discuss nonprofit compliance and end of the year checklists.
Operational audits in the form of simple checklists can be valuable tools for nonprofits to maintain good governance, demonstrate financial integrity, and achieve their missions.
Join us to learn what nonprofit leaders should be doing at the end of each year and receive DevoCenter Digital fillable .pdf audits for free. meetup.devocenterdigital.org