YVONNE CHERELL, CEO
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 directly 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
Ms. Cherell brings a wealth of 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 most namely, Policy Matters Ohio.
As a graduate of the African American Leadership Academy Cycle IX 2013 and Cleveland Leadership Center – Bridge Builders Program 2009, her style is energetic and impetuous. Her leadership interests are woven through her civic and community engagements such as Life Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and other volunteer endeavors.
Ms. Cherell is a proud Alumnae of Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, OH. As the mother of another HBCU graduate, Chris Hunnicutt, she enjoys a great life as an “empty-nester” with her Love and furbaby in Columbus.
