Our People

The People Behind UBF

UBF is guided by staff, board members, and community partners who bring experience, accountability, and a shared commitment to Greater Cleveland. Together, they strengthen the organization and help advance its mission.

Leadership

Our Team

Executive Leadership

Twyla Turner

Executive Director

Twyla N. Turner serves as Executive Director of the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland, leading the organization as it enters its next chapter of community investment, organizational capacity building, partnership, and impact.

A Cleveland native with more than 15 years of experience advancing organizational growth and community impact, Twyla brings extensive experience in program development, implementation, organizational operations, and community engagement. Prior to her appointment as Executive Director, she served as UBF's Director of Program Resources, giving her firsthand knowledge of the organization, its partners, and the work undertaken to strengthen UBF for its future.

As Executive Director, Twyla leads, UBF's strategic direction, fund development, community investment, organizational development, fiscal sponsorship, partnerships, and day-to-day operations while working closely with the Board of Directors and community stakeholders.

“We have a strong foundation, an important legacy, and tremendous opportunity ahead. We are Building Forward.”

Read the Executive Director Announcement

Celeste Terry, MSSA

Grants Manager

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

Venica Hearst

Program Coordinator, Organizational Development

Venica A. Hearst is a seasoned professional specializing in resource management, business, and office development. With over a decade in the nonprofit sector and extensive outreach across Greater Cleveland, she is dedicated to advancing the organization's mission and serving the community.

Cherelle Houston-Porter

HR Coordinator (Contracted)

Cherelle supports United Black Fund's human resources processes and organizational structure in a contracted HR Coordinator capacity. She partners with UBF leadership to strengthen HR systems, employee processes, and the people infrastructure needed to support a clear, compliant, and sustainable workplace.

Governance