Introducing the 2025 LIFT Cohort!
We’re thrilled to unveil the 2025 LIFT Cohort—five remarkable leaders who are answering their call with encourage those around them. Grounded in faith and driven by purpose, each is leading a local organization that is making a tangible difference in their community. Building Hope in the City is honored to walk alongside them on this journey of growth and impact.
Now in its fourth year, Leaders in Faith Together (LIFT) invests in the development, capacity, and effectiveness of faith leaders. These leaders gain tools, support, and connection to help their organizations grow stronger and go further in the work they’re called to do.
Emily Nickel from Reclamation Ministry
Emily Nickel leads Reclamation Ministry with a mission to cultivate a brave space for women who have experienced sexual harm. Through spiritual support, empowerment, and embodied healing, Reclamation Ministry walks alongside women on their path toward restoration and freedom. Emily’s work offers survivors a renewed sense of self within a safe and faith-forward space.
Richard and Valerie Smith from Hope Seals/Hope Stay
This husband-and-wife team co-founded Hope Seals LLC to serve men returning from incarceration with dignity, opportunity, and faith. Hope Seals LLC offers a full-service reentry program that blends practical support with deep community. In addition to job training through its sealcoating and asphalt services, Hope Seals offers daily meals, group workouts, and devotionals, building a family-like culture.
Latanisha Walker White from The Teen Parent Plug / The Doula Plug
Latanisha Walker White empowers adolescent parents through The Teen Parent Plug (TPP), a peer-led movement based in Lorain and Cuyahoga Counties. TPP empowers adolescent caregivers with resources, mentorship, and education designed by and for young parents. Every session is led by those who’ve walked the path of teen parenthood, building trust and fostering authentic growth. With added job readiness training and in-house employment opportunities, TPP equips young parents to succeed both as caregivers and professionals.
Te’Sheba Oliver from The Urban Christian Woman
Te’Sheba Oliver leads The Urban Christian Woman, a ministry devoted to equipping urban women of diverse ethnic backgrounds with Biblical truth for every facet of life. Inspired by Colossians 2:7–8, the ministry helps women grow in faith, apply Scripture to their everyday lives, and serve as restorers within their churches and communities. Through teaching, discipleship, and cultural engagement, Te’Sheba is cultivating Gospel transformation that strengthens churches and breathes life into urban cities.
Mary Beth Cole from Jaeden's Legacy
Mary Beth Cole founded Jaeden’s Legacy after losing her grandson Jaeden at just 3 years of age due to child abuse. The ministry serves at-risk youth by connecting them with older youth mentors, employment, and opportunities to clean up the community they reside in. It also empowers parents with services and resources to build confidence and strength to become a positive member of their family and community.
