Yvonne Cherell

Yvonne Cherell is the first CEO of OUCAN (formerly OURS). A respected advocate of social justice, equity and fairness in the state of Ohio, she brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, sustainability, greater public policy visibility and leadership.

Prior to establishing her business, Freeman Focus Management, Inc., Ms. Cherell successfully championed a 25+ year career in the non-profit sector. Her journey with Community Action Agencies began as a young, single mother when her son attended a Head Start program in Cleveland in 1993. Eight years later, she became the Parent Involvement Coordinator for the direct operated program under what is now known as Step Forward. She knows first-hand the effectiveness of Community Action Agencies in the fight against poverty and in strengthening the social and economic security of families and their communities

Yvonne has extensive expertise in leading a diverse collection of social service agencies through sustainability, greater public policy visibility and leadership. She is a member of several statewide taskforces and boards namely the Economic Mobility Alliance Ohio, Black Child Institute Development Ohio and the Finance Committee for the Ohio League of Women Voters.

As a graduate of several leadership cohorts such as Columbus Chamber of Commerce DEIA Next Level Cohort 2024, African American Leadership Academy Cycle IX and Cleveland Leadership Center – Bridge Builders Program, Yvonne’s style is energetic and results-driven. Her leadership interests are woven through her civic and community engagements including her Lifetime Member status in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and other volunteer endeavors.

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Yvonne earned her Master of Public Administration from Franklin University and Bachelor of Arts from Wilberforce University, equipping her with the knowledge and skills needed to make a lasting impact in Ohio’s communities. She resides in Columbus, Ohio, with her Love, and is a proud new Mimi.