A Place 4 Me

“I raise up my voice not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” — Malala Yousafzai

These are the words Katura Pleasant chose to represent her recognition as part of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation’s 40 Under 40 Emerging Legends Class of 2026 Salute.

Last night, A Place 4 Me was proud to celebrate Katura, our Youth Systems Manager, and the leadership, purpose, and heart she brings to this work every day. Through her commitment to youth voice and systems change, Katura continues to help create a future where young people are heard, valued, and supported.

The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation was created with a vision to empower, educate, and elevate the lives of young individuals in our community. That vision perfectly encapsulates Katura’s leadership, advocacy, and commitment.

Congratulations, Katura, and to all of the 40 Under 40 Emerging Legends honorees in the Class of 2026!

Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation

Last week, A Place 4 Me staff joined the Bipartisan Policy Center at the Annie E. Casey Foundation in Baltimore for a conference focused on modernizing child welfare policy.

We are grateful that Jakiah, Foster Care Youth Navigator, and Katura, Youth Systems Manager, were part of this important conversation alongside leaders from across the country. ❤🏠

For many LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults, experiences of homelessness and housing instability are tied to rejection, discrimination, and systems that have not always kept them safe.

Belonging means more than having a roof overhead. It means having people, places, and systems that honor who youth and young adults are, protect their dignity, and help them feel safe and supported.

A huge, heartfelt thank you to the Cleveland Chapter of Charms, Inc. for supporting youth and young adults in our community. ❤️🏠

Their generous monetary and in-kind donations are already helping provide essential items and support for youth and young adults. Thank you, Charms, Inc., for supporting our mission!

📲Inspired to support youth and young adults in our community? To learn more or coordinate a donation, visit the link in our bio or call/text Zach at (216) 825-1390.

Will you join us in the movement to prevent and end youth homelessness?

Your gift, no matter the size, helps A Place 4 Me support youth and young adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability as they move toward a safer, more stable future.

Together, we can build a community where every young person has a place to call home. ❤🏠

Support our work at aplace4me.org/donate!

Last week, A Place 4 Me staff and Board of Directors gathered for a strategic planning retreat to imagine what is possible as we continue our mission to prevent and end youth and young adult homelessness in Cuyahoga County.

We are especially grateful to everyone who shared their voice through a strategic planning interview or survey. Your insight is helping shape the next chapter of A Place 4 Me.

We are so proud to have such a thoughtful, dedicated, and mission-driven community walking alongside us as we listen, reflect, and plan for the future. 🏠❤

Please join us in welcoming Graceson Grether to the A Place 4 Me team as our new Young Adult Collaboration Coordinator!

In this role, Graceson will support the REACH Youth Action Board as members use their lived experience to transform systems and better meet the needs of youth and young adults experiencing homelessness, housing instability, and/or foster care.

A fun fact about Graceson: he has a side gig called Nifty Thrifty 216, where he collects vintage clothing and sells at local markets. We are so excited to have Graceson on our team!

Welcome, Graceson! ❤🏠

Please join us in welcoming Ariana Broom to the A Place 4 Me team as our newest Youth Navigator!

In this role, Ariana will work directly with youth and young adults, helping them navigate resources, build stability, and move toward their goals.

A fun fact about Ariana: she has really been into trying new things lately, and she enjoys arts and crafts and reading. We are so excited to have Ariana’s passion and talents on our team as we continue working to prevent and end youth homelessness in Cuyahoga County.

Welcome, Ariana!

Last week, A Place 4 Me staff had the pleasure of joining a resource fair at Old Brook High School in Parma to meet with students, teachers, and school staff. 🏠❤

Thank you to Old Brook High School for welcoming us and creating space for important conversations about housing stability, homelessness, and foster care!