Today we’d like to introduce you to Yoko Ferrell.
Hi Yoko, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey became deeply personal in 2024 when I lost both my son on January 3rd of 2024, and just six months later on July 7th I lost my godson Khamari Campbell. In the middle of that unimaginable grief, I leaned on my faith and asked God to help me find purpose in the pain. What carried me through was remembering the kind of person my son was loving, compassionate, and always willing to help others. His heart for people inspired me to turn my pain into purpose.
That’s how Little Trees Foundation of Building Hope was born. The name comes from my son’s nickname, L.T. also known as “Little Tree.” It felt only right to honor him in that way. To me, Little Trees represents growth, strength, and healing a reminder that even the smallest seeds, when placed in God’s hands, can grow into something powerful.
I started the foundation from the ground up, working through incorporation and earning 501(c)(3) status while learning everything it takes to build a nonprofit. Right now, we’re in the development phase, building partnerships, securing resources, and creating programs for youth and young adults ages 12–30 focused on violence prevention, mentorship, and emotional support.
This foundation is my way of honoring my son and godson while working toward safer, stronger futures for young people. What began as heartbreak has become hope, and I’m committed to making sure their lives continue to make an impact through the work we’re building.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Losing my son and my godson so close together was overwhelming and trying to build something meaningful while grieving has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. There were days when simply showing up felt heavy.
On a practical level, starting a nonprofit from scratch comes with its own challenges learning the process, handling paperwork, securing 501(c)(3) status, finding resources, and trying to build connections without a large team or funding yet. It can feel lonely at times.
But the biggest struggle has been balancing grief with purpose. Some days I’m strong, and other days I have to remind myself why I started. What keeps me going is knowing this work honors my son and godson and could help prevent other families from experiencing the same pain. Even through the struggles, I’ve learned resilience, patience, and the power of faith and perseverance.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Little Trees Foundation of Building Hope is a nonprofit focused on violence prevention and supporting youth and young adults ages 12–30 through mentorship, emotional support, and community-based programs. Right now, we’re in the development phase building partnerships, securing resources, and designing trauma-informed programming that meets young people where they are.
What sets us apart is that this mission is deeply personal it’s built from lived experience. Little Trees was created in honor of my son, and the foundation’s name comes from my son’s nickname, LT, also known as “Little Tree.” Every part of this organization is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and a genuine desire to prevent other families from experiencing similar loss.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of building this foundation from the ground up and achieving 501(c)(3) status while navigating grief and starting with limited resources. Little Trees represents growth, healing, and hope — even small beginnings can grow into something strong.
I want readers to know that this isn’t just a nonprofit, it’s a movement built on love, resilience, and purpose. As we continue to grow, our goal is to create safe spaces, meaningful mentorship, and preventative programs that help young people build healthier futures. Anyone who wants to support, partner, or be part of this journey is welcome.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Cleveland is the heart of the people. There’s a strong sense of community here, and when someone is trying to do something meaningful, you’ll find people who are willing to show up, support, and help however they can. I also appreciate how resilient this city is there’s so much strength, creativity, and potential, especially among our youth.
What I like least is that too many young people still lack access to consistent resources, mentorship, and safe spaces. Violence, trauma, and limited opportunities affect far too many families. That’s part of what motivates me, I see both the need and the possibility here, and I truly believe Cleveland can be a place where more young people are supported before they fall through the cracks.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.littletreesfoundation.org
- Instagram: littletreesbuildinghope
- Facebook: Little Trees Foundation of Building Hope
- Youtube: Little Trees Foundation of Building Hope Inc.
Image Credits
Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church
