Staff
Owoseni Akinsanya
Program Coordinator
Holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and a Bachelor’s Degree in International-Relations.
“I joined UCEP because I wanted to be part of this organization in addressing the issues that impact the lives of children and families. I believe educating and empowering young adults and adolescents to make the right choices is an important part of their lives. I strongly believe that people without the right direction are in the darkness, and my passion is to bring them into the light. My goal for UCEP is to develop long-term sustainable and vigorous intervention programs that will help more and more at-risk youth and young adults succeed in life and develop the ability to bring out their best. I have decided to give back to my community by helping teens and young adults realize their untapped potentials that will benefit their lives, families, and the Community.”
Ms. Bertha Joyner
Program Coordinator
Holds a Master’s Degree in Political Science/Urban Policy.
“I believe in helping others; it brings gratitude to me knowing that I have brightened or made a difference in someone’s life. My passion is in helping adolescents and young adults to not give up no matter what negative things happen in life; it brings me joy and satisfaction if I can help someone improve their status in life and overall well-being.”
Valerie Holland
Executive Director and Co-Founder
Co-founder of the Urban Community Empowerment Project (UCEP) with a Master’s Degree in Urban Studies and Criminal Justice. She is a certified Personal Life Coach credentialed from New York University.
“My desire to help others recover and move forward in life stems from my own challenging past. Through my willingness to confront issues, accept change, and the use of a personalized growth method “continual rediscovery”, I recovered. UCEP was founded on these same principles and practices, which I feel are my purpose in life to share with others.”
Donald Rencher
Assistant Director and Co-Founder
Co-Founder of UCEP, Mr. Rencher is a Licensed Social Worker and has Master’s Degrees in Social Work and Public Health.
“My principal interests are building self-esteem, positive health practices, developing stress reduction and coping strategies for men and adolescent males. I have developed holistic strategies that address depression and stress management for today’s man. I believe that spiritual transformation is key to good physical health, a balanced emotional life, and overall wellness.”