I Am Project HOME: Lekeisha Eubanks-Evans

Lekeisha Eubanks-Evans is one of several exceptional executive team members who help lead our organization toward success. She came to the Project HOME community in October 2017 and is now the Vice President of the Education, Employment, and Neighborhood Services Department. She assumed this unique role in December 2022, marking a significant milestone in her professional trajectory. Reflecting on her responsibilities, Lekeisha explains, "My role is a new role... largely in part to oversee all of the programs operating within the Honickman Learning Center Comcast Technology Labs (HLCCTL) as well as the Helen Brown Community Center, to build on the synergies of programs serving the 19121+19132 Strawberry Mansion/Ridge community."

Lekeisha's journey with Project Home began with her relocation from New York to Philadelphia, where she embraced the opportunity to lead the organization's educational initiatives. Drawing upon her extensive experience at the Harlem Children's Zone in New York, Lekeisha found resonance with Project HOME's mission and values. She recalls, "What really stood out to me about Project Home was the home feel...the support and growth opportunities...the impact that I knew that I will be able to make on the community."

At the heart of Lekeisha's role lies a deep-seated commitment to advancing Project HOME's educational and employment mission and nurturing the development of its range of participants. As a VP, she’s actively analyzing data, assessing program effectiveness, and staying attuned to the needs of the community. " I really pride myself on spending time being in tune with what's happening on the ground level," she shared, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a comprehensive understanding of programmatic goals and community aspirations.

In unprecedented times during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lekeisha's resilience shined through as she cultivated initiatives to adapt and innovate. From the successful implementation of new literacy programs to the establishment of a state-of-the-art STEAM lab, she demonstrates an ongoing pursuit of educational excellence and empowerment. "I'm extremely proud of all the work that I've put into getting to know members of the community, my team...to build trusting relationships," she reflects, celebrating the collective achievements of her team.

With a keen focus on preventive measures, Lekeisha envisions a future where Project HOME plays a pivotal role in supporting students and young people early on, thereby diverting them from the supportive housing operations pipeline. Her commitment to expanding the program's reach beyond the confines of the HLCCTL is palpable, as she explores avenues to deepen partnerships with public schools and engage the larger community. "I feel like we've mastered a lot of what we have been able to do at HLCCTL," she says, highlighting the need to replicate the program's success in new settings and demographics.

Lekeisha has remained grounded in her immediate goals, recognizing the importance of engaging community members who may feel disconnected from the HLCCTL's offerings. Through innovative initiatives such as one-off opportunities and weekend workshops, she seeks to bridge the gap and foster a sense of belonging within the larger community. "I really, truly want people to understand that they are a part of our community," she emphasizes, underscoring her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

She’s very proud of their STEAM lab, which opened right before the pandemic, closed briefly and then reopened in 2022. Lekeisha recalls when the STEAM lab made its comeback and says, “I'm now seeing the love of learning that is cultivated in students. I’m hoping we then see more Black and Brown students who are in these fields," she shares, envisioning a future where educational opportunities transcend barriers and inspire future generations.

Looking ahead, Lekeisha envisions a future where Project HOME's educational programs extend their reach and impact within the community. She wants to continue expanding access to educational resources, enhancing programmatic offerings, and fostering meaningful community partnerships. "I really want people to understand that they are a part of our community...the larger community is our community," she explains.  

As she continues to navigate her leadership role, Lekeisha's commitment to fostering positive change and transformative growth has inspired both colleagues and community members. Thank you, Lekeisha for fighting toward quality education for our Philadelphian neighbors!