ABOUT ME
Sheena Barnes, the founder, possesses several years of community engagement experience and serves as a subject matter authority in trauma-informed care and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has a deep-rooted interest in addressing the link between trauma and negative behaviors displayed by youth and is an enthusiastic advocate for resources that cater to youth crisis intervention.
In 2019, Sheena was elected by Toledo voters to serve on the Toledo Public Schools Board of Education. In addition, she is an active board member of several organizations, including the Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center, Scouts of America for Erie Shores Council, The National Black Justice Coalition, and The Buckeye Flame.
During their tenure as the Executive Director for Equality Toledo, an organization that provides services for the LGBTQ+ community in Northwest Ohio, She recognized a significant gap in discussions regarding the intersectional oppression that many individuals in our community face, based on their race, age, religion/beliefs, disability status, and other social identities. Understanding the importance of incorporating intersectionality into training and conversations regarding the best practices towards the LGBTQ+ community, Sheena built Just ACTS LLC in 2019.
The Chronicles of My Path
2019: A trailblazing triumph: the first openly LGBT/Queer Woman of Color elected to a School Board in Northwest Ohio.
2019: Black Lives Matter award given by Community Solidarity Response Network
2019: Archived in The Library of United States Congress
2020: Equality Ohio's endorsement of Ohio advocacy award
2021: The LGBTQ Plus Leadership Award received from Ohio Diversity Council award.
*A distinguished expert in trauma awareness and treatment.