Welcome Kelsie and Shanell

Name: Kelsie Johnson

Position: Director of Programs

From: Columbus, Ohio

I am originally from Columbus, Ohio (born and raised) and moved to Washington, DC in December 2018 when my husband’s work with Climate Justice called us here. I graduated from the University of Dayton (Ohio) where I majored in Entrepreneurship with an aspiration to do work for people that had meaning, impact, and purpose. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing them with something they need and want. The call of Micah 6:8, ‘to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God’ has led me to advocacy for women, children, and families.

I have invested my time, energy, and effort into walking alongside survivors of sex trafficking, abuse, addiction, and trauma. I was drawn to the work of DC127 for these same reasons. We walk alongside families in DC, with a focus on empowerment, stability, preservation, and, community.

My aim is to continue to be a part of something bigger than myself, which is only possible by serving and caring for others. I would have loved to have met Mr. Rogers. His legacy and philosophy were so radical, yet simple. Preaching the message of dignity and respect. I hope I can have an ounce of that impact with my words and work.

Name: Shanell Cooper

Position: Family Support Coordinator

From: PG County, Maryland

Hello! My name is Shanell Cooper and I am a licensed graduate social worker in DC. I have a bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescents studies and an MSW degree with a concentration in children and families. I have a background working with children and families in the school sector. I have always had a passion for working with and caring for children since my younger years. I always knew that when I grew up, I would work with children in some capacity.

I am passionate about the work of DC127 because it helps to empower and stabilize families with support and link them to needed resources and connections. I am also proud to be an employee with DC127 because of its faith-based roots. It is such a pleasure to be able to openly express gratitude for God and all that he has done for us while serving families. In the future, I would love to see the development of safer and better-equipped foster parents and homes for children in foster care with fewer disruptions and less moving to multiple homes.