Staff

Gloria Blackman-Upton

Gloria Blackman-Upton is a dedicated and community-focused professional with more than twenty years of leadership experience in human services and early childhood education. As a Director with H.O.M.E. Childcare LLC for two decades, she has built a strong reputation for creating safe, supportive, and developmentally rich environments for children and families in Chicago.

Gloria brings an exceptional academic background that strengthens her commitment to quality care and community empowerment. She holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, a Master’s Degree in Administration, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Human Resources. This combination of educational and professional experience allows her to approach service from a holistic perspective—understanding both the needs of individuals and the operational systems that support them.

 As a director in alignment with the mission of Krispy Klean II programs and support services, Gloria is especially passionate about helping individuals in at-risk and underserved communities gain access to dependable support services. She believes that every person has the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and she has spent her career advocating for programs that promote independence, dignity, and opportunity.

Known for her integrity, compassion, and strong organizational leadership, Gloria continues to be driven by a purpose: to uplift communities, empower individuals, and help create pathways to a better quality of life for those who need it most.

Jennipher (Jen) Glenn

Veteran affairs

Jennipher Glenn is a proud United States Air Force Veteran and the dedicated Director of Making A Difference (MAD), a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through service, advocacy, and empowerment.  With a lifelong passion for helping others, Jen brings her heart, discipline, and unwavering dedication to every initiative she leads.

Her experience working alongside veterans, service members, and community organizations has shaped her mission-driven leadership style.  She has organized and supported countless programs that uplift those who have served, from veteran resource drives and community beautification projects to fundraising campaigns that directly benefit local posts, schools, and families in need.

As a combat veteran herself, Jen understands the importance of belonging, mental wellness, and continued service beyond the uniform.  Her efforts with MAD center on creating sustainable programs that not only provide resources but also restore pride, purpose, and unity within the community.

Whether she’s coordinating large-scale fundraising events, mentoring young leaders, or building partnerships with civic and faith-based organizations, Jen’s work is guided by integrity, compassion, and a belief that one act of kindness can change a life.

Erika Sanders

Human Resources

With a decade of experience in Human Resources, Erika Sanders is a certified Human Resources professional with proven experience developing and implementing innovative programs that drive organizational growth, strong leadership development, and organizational strategy. She has had the privilege of working with prestigious organizations such as WGN-TV and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, where she designed impactful HR initiatives that enhanced workplace culture and performance.

Beyond the office space, Erika is passionate about community outreach. She leads children’s Bible classes, and has volunteered to minister through music at a local prison, using faith and compassion to inspire hope and transformation in others. Erika is committed to making a difference both within the workplace and community.

Brandon Henderson

Community Engagement

Brandon Henderson is a proud graduate of Morehouse College, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree and developed a strong commitment to leadership, service, and community empowerment. During his time at Morehouse, Brandon not only excelled academically but also dedicated himself to giving back through consistent volunteer work and youth mentorship.

He has been actively involved with the Boys & Girls Club, where he helped create supportive and inspiring environments for young people to learn, grow, and build confidence. In addition, Brandon has partnered with several local community organizations, contributing his time and energy to neighborhood improvement projects, youth outreach initiatives, and service events that address the needs of underserved communities.

Brandon passion for community engagement is rooted in his belief that meaningful change begins with service. He continues to embody the values of integrity, excellence, and brotherhood that define the Morehouse tradition—striving to uplift others and inspire future generations through his work and leadership.

Rickiyia

Youth Programming

Rickiyia was born and raised in Chicago, where she once dreamed of becoming a singer. Life, however, charted a different course. At 32, after overcoming challenges that reshaped her path, she discovered a passion for transportation. This led her to Arkansas, where she became a certified freight broker—transforming her love for driving and music into a fulfilling career.

The road has been Rickiyia’s greatest teacher, instilling independence, patience, and the belief that every mile carries a purpose. Alongside her professional journey, she has devoted herself to nonprofit work, driven by a passion for helping children. Through mentoring, Rickiyia has had the privilege of positively impacting young lives, fostering growth, and creating opportunities for the next generation.