Our Legacy

The Foundation for a Stronger Community

We are the only Black Federated human service organization in the state of Ohio. Since 1981, we have continued to blaze the trail in transformative impact for the people of Northeast Ohio.

Someone typing on a laptop
our goal

Equipping non-profits to better serve.

We have an incredible track record of actively engaging agency partners to help them become more sustainable. With our guidance, they operate more efficiently, and according to clearly defined values to maximize resources and, ultimately, community impact. For decades, we have collaborated towards achieving excellence in operations, finance, governance, talent, and programming to best serve the community.

Championing Education

We have been instrumental in bridging educational gaps through scholarships, literacy programs, and support for educational institutions. Our efforts have lit the spark of knowledge in countless young minds, providing them with the tools to build their future and, in turn, uplift the community.

empowering cle

Our Pillars: A Timeline of Growth and Impact

Two Black children at a racket ball court
Building Communities

Since our inception, we have been dedicated to empowering local service agencies.

Economic Development

Through our support, we have driven positive change in the Greater Cleveland community.

Community Enrichment

We continue to expand our impact by providing financial assistance to grassroots organizations.

Advocacy and Social Justice

Through our programs, we have transformed the lives of individuals and families in need.

A young Black woman laughing against a bright blue background
MEET THE TEAm

Our People

Growth-oriented experts serving for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

Cheryl Perez
Principal Consultant and CEO of Cheryl C. Perez Enterprises
Interim CEO Consultant for the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland

The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland announced today that it has engaged Cheryl C. Perez Enterprises, LLC to provide interim executive leadership consulting services as the organization enters a new phase of clarity, alignment, and continued growth.


Through this engagement, Cheryl C. Perez will serve in the functional capacity of Interim Chief Executive Officer, guiding UBF through communication strengthening, internal process alignment, and preparation for the recruitment of the organization’s next permanent Executive Director.


“Cheryl brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management and organizational strategy,” said Lynn Johnson, Board Chair of UBF. “Her deep understanding of our mission and community, along with her proven experience leading through transition, will support continued clarity and continuity during this important time.”


Perez, a long-time supporter and former board member of UBF, will lead in a consulting capacity through her firm, Cheryl C. Perez Enterprises, while serving as Interim CEO.


“It’s an honor to support UBF’s mission during this pivotal time,” said Cheryl Perez. “My focus will be on strengthening communication, supporting internal clarity, and ensuring the organization is positioned for long-term success as it prepares for its next chapter.”


The engagement will span approximately seven months, during which CCP ENT will focus on organizational alignment, internal communication, process clarity, and leadership transition planning in collaboration with the Board of Directors and UBF staff.

Celeste Terry, MSSA
Celeste Terry, MSSA
Grants Manager

Celeste E. Terry, MSSA - Grant Manager and Cohort Director has over 30+ years in nonprofit management elevating organizations with funding and training to build capacity and sustainability.

Charron Leeper *
Charron Leeper *
Creative Director

Charron Leeper, a seasoned creative entrepreneur, brings over 15 years of expertise in design, modeling, and eight years in creative direction. As the lead consultant, Creative Director, and CEO of Agency Thirty-Three, she spearheaded creative projects like FutureLAND, contributing to Cleveland's creative landscape. Additionally, Charron is the founder and Creative Director of Perfect Pineapple®, a notable brand for head wraps and hair accessories since 2018. Charron is the adjunct Creative Director for the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland (UBF).

Sabrina Brown *
Sabrina Brown *
Project Coordinator

Sabrina Brown is a consultant currently working as UBF’s Project Coordinator, with a knack for keeping teams on track and projects running smoothly. Her expertise lies in effective communication and problem-solving, ensuring that project goals are met on time and within budget. Sabrina thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys bringing people together to achieve success.

Twyla Turner
Twyla Turner
Director of Program Resources

Twyla N. Turner is a native of Cleveland and has over 15 years of experience creating profitable growth and impact opportunities in the region. Twyla is a key member of the leadership team as the Director of Program Resources at the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland (UBF). Her role is critical in ensuring effective planning, development, implementation, and maintenance of the organization's program services and operations.

Venica Hearst
Venica Hearst
Executive Assistant

Venica A. Hearst, Executive Assistant at The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland, is a seasoned professional specializing in resource management, business, and office development. With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector and extensive outreach efforts in the Greater Cleveland Area, Venica is dedicated to advancing the organization's mission and serving the community.

* Denotes Consultant

Our Board

Leaders dedicated to community impact.

Lynn Johnson
Lynn Johnson
President – Director
Sharron Murphy-Williams
Sharron Murphy-Williams
Vice President – Director
Grady Burrows
Grady Burrows
Secretary – Director
Amos Mahsua
Amos Mahsua
Finance Chair – Director
John Gerak, Atty.
John Gerak, Atty.
Resource Development & Fundraising – Director
LaToya Smith
LaToya Smith
HR - Director
Aaron O'Brien
Aaron O'Brien
Legal Counsel – Director
Tiarrah Kent
Tiarrah Kent
Recording Secretary – Director
Shelley A. Tobias
Shelley A. Tobias
Grants & Allocations – Director
Andrew NewsomeAndrew Newsome
Andrew Newsome
Kent WhitleyKent Whitley
Kent Whitley
Regenia G. LaneRegenia G. Lane
Regenia G. Lane
Roderick H. Adams, Jr.Roderick H. Adams, Jr.
Roderick H. Adams, Jr.
Tenora EdwardsTenora Edwards
Tenora Edwards
Vicki DansbyVicki Dansby
Vicki Dansby
join us

Open Positions

Opportunities to make meaningful change happen.

No Open Positions

There are curently no available positions at the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland. Please check back soon and keep an eye on our social media!

together for greater impact

The Change We Seek, Starts With You.

We continue to see the power of collaboration and its positive influence on lives in the Black community. Your support makes a difference.