Meet the Team
Executive Director
Ann De Groot
Ann has led the YCB since 2008, bringing decades of nonprofit, advocacy, and public-sector partnership experience across Minneapolis.
Director of Youth Engagement
LaToya Balogun
LaToya leads YCB youth engagement, building pathways for young people to shape programs, policy, and community priorities.
Director of Early Childhood
Deby Ziesmer
Deby leads YCB early childhood work, focused on Family, Friend, and Neighbor caregivers and equitable school readiness.
Director of Youth Development
Leah Defenbaugh
Leah leads youth development projects and the Minneapolis Afterschool Network, centering youth voice and stronger out-of-school-time programs.
Strategic Planning Specialist
Leopoldino Jeronimo
Since 2022, Leopoldino has led strategic planning, research, and reporting for YCB initiatives, including the Minneapolis Youth Safety Index.
Lead Accountant
Jeremy Theis
Jeremy supports YCB financial operations, accounting, and compliance, with public accounting experience and CPA training.