The people behind Olu's Home.

Gloria Freeman

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Gloria Freeman is the Founder and CEO of Minneapolis-based Olu's Home, Inc. and Olu's Beginnings LLC. In 1999, she founded Olu's Home, a licensed care organization providing residential and in-home services to persons with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and the elderly — today operating ten residential and two assisted living sites across the Twin Cities. Her calling has roots in childhood: Gloria accompanied her mother, a prominent public speaker, on residential visits advocating for the mentally ill. In 2013, she began collaborating with her daughter, Jessica Herod, to expand into a holistic, intergenerational early childhood program serving North Minneapolis. Gloria is an alumna of the SBA Emerging Leaders Initiative, Harvard Business Publishing through the Women Presidents' Organization, and the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Leadership Program. Leadership: YMCA Board Member; Women Presidents' Organization; MEDA Minority Business Enterprise Advisory Council; Hennepin Theatre Trust Board; MEDA Board; MN 100 Club Board; past board member, Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce. Awards: Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce Category II Award (2007); ICIC Inner City 100 (2014); Women of Excellence Award (2016); Minnesota Business (Real) Power 50 (2017); MEDA Entrepreneur of the Year (2018).

Kitty Campbell

Chief Operating Officer

MPA

Kitty Campbell is our Chief Operating Officer (COO) who joined the Olu's Home family in 2022 after 15 years of working in public housing with the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority where she worked in various roles and oversaw many special projects. As COO she is a strategic thought-partner and reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Kitty provides leadership, day-to-day management, and oversight of the Olu's Home business operations. In conjunction with the CEO, Kitty works to design, implement, and expand Olu's Home programs and services while continuing to build capacity. Kitty holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Minnesota – Morris as well as a Master of Public Administration and Certification in Management of Nonprofit Organizations from the University of Illinois – Springfield. Kitty has been a member of the KMOJ Advisory Committee since 2016 and loves working with and giving back to the community. She is an active member of the United COGIC and volunteers with organizations like Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Red Cross, etc. Her bright, outgoing personality makes everyone around her feel comfortable being who they are. When she is not hard at work she enjoys traveling to new places and spending time with her husband and two children.

Alicia Carey

Director of Operations

Alicia Carey is Director of Operations at Olu's Home Inc. With over a decade of experience in foster care and supported living services, Alicia is known for her dedication and notable accomplishments. Alicia specializes in 245.D compliance, community development, assisted living, and leadership support. Her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience have been key to the success of Olu's Home Inc. Alicia's career at Olu's Home began as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). She quickly advanced to Lead DSP and House Supervisor, showcasing her leadership skills. Her roles as Quality Assurance Manager and now Director of Operations highlight her talent and commitment. She has overseen multiple group homes, creating a supportive environment for both residents and staff. Alicia earned her associate degree from the University of MCTC, providing a strong foundation for her career. Outside of work, Alicia enjoys tending to her backyard, spending time with her pets, and cherishing moments with her husband. Her dedication to serving others continues to make a positive impact on Olu's Home Inc. and the community.

Dorothy Vah

Assistant Program Director & Program Coordinator

BSN, BS Human Services

Dorothy Vah brings over 15 years of experience in the human services field. Specializing in supporting individuals with mental illness and physical disabilities, Dorothy's passion for helping others stems from her deep commitment to improving lives and promoting independence. Her journey at Olu's Home Inc. began in 2014, where she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of those in her care. Over the years with Olu's, Dorothy served as House Supervisor in 2014 and later as Assistant Program Director and Program Coordinator. Passionate about helping individuals lead fulfilled lives, Dorothy combines her clinical knowledge with strong advocacy for person-centered care practices. Her multifaceted background and ongoing education reflect her dedication to advancing healthcare services and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable populations. Dorothy holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cuttington University in Liberia (2007) and recently earned a bachelor's degree in human services from Metropolitan State University (2021). She is pursuing a master's degree in healthcare administration at St. Mary's University, enhancing her leadership in healthcare management. Outside of her professional career, Dorothy founded Hope for Destiny Children Center (HDCC), a non-profit organization based in Liberia, in 2021. Through HDCC, she passionately serves her community by feeding underprivileged children twice a week, embodying her commitment to positively impacting beyond borders. Dorothy's dedication to this cause is to ensure that children do not go hungry, have access to basic school supplies, and can sit in the classroom and prepare themselves for a better future. Dorothy cherishes spending leisure time with her three children outside of work and her philanthropic efforts.