With more than 17 years of direct service youth work, Cora Reeves has joined 180 Degrees as our new associate director of shelter and support services, focusing on Brittany's Place. She's developed programming for drop-in centers, charter schools and emergency shelters in Minnesota and Texas. She has facilitated training on trauma-informed care, harm reduction and safe harbor, specific topics related to the commercial exploitation of youth. Cora is extremely passionate about youth work and is determined to bridge the gap in service disparities for the young people in our communities. She earned a bachelor's degree from Metro State University in Human Services Administration.

Q: What attracted you to working at 180 Degrees?
Cora: I have partnered with 180 Degrees in several capacities over my career. This position attracted me as it allows me to collaborate with director- and ED-level professionals to ensure quality youth work is happening at all levels. I am passionate about developing new youth workers. This role provides me a seat at those tables to create opportunity in professional development of entry level staff.  The associate director role has also positioned me for achieving continued professional goals. I'm excited and looking forward to doing impactful work as part of the leadership team.
 
Q: What are your goals and plans for the position?
Cora: Brittany's Place will be held to high standard youth work to ensure safety and security for our participants. I plan to build programming that provides quality youth work designed BY youth, FOR youth. Providers will feel heard and valued. But most importantly, we're going to have FUN. 
 
Q: Tell us a fun fact or something unusual about you.
Cora: My high school senior yearbook quote was the golden rule: "Treat others the way you want to be treated,” and I live by it to this day. And according to my mom, who knows me best: "The fun part of you is your ability to adapt to all situations and enjoy yourself and the people around you." 

Thank you to the 150+ guests – 180 Degrees board members and staff, family and friends, both young and old – who joined in the festive fun on Thursday night, December 8, at Gay 90s Holiday Drag Show.

Amidst the fun and glamour, it was an evening of joy and support for the LGBTQ community. The talented performers had everyone applauding, singing, laughing and cheering.

Many thanks to Leslie, Karin, the Ladies of La Femme and Gay 90’s staff for hosting such a sparkling show. We were overwhelmed with your hospitality and generosity to support our youth shelters.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!

Thank you to more than 60 volunteers from UnitedHealthcare & HandsOn Twin Cities who helped clean and organize our storage barn last Wednesday, November 30! Despite the big snow the night before, we had an excellent turnout. We appreciate all of the hard work that volunteers provide to strengthen our shelters, especially during these cold winter months.

We couldn't have done it without you!