CDF–Ohio Staff

Laura Young joined Children's Defense Fund-Ohio in April 2010. Laura is a United Methodist minister and holds a Master of Divinity degree from Methodist Theological School in Ohio. Prior to becoming a minister, Laura attended law school at Golden Gate University in San Francisco, and undergraduate school at The University of Michigan.

Laura has ministered on the "front lines" with impoverished Ohioans in one of the poorest and most violent areas of Columbus. The United Methodist church to which she was appointed is a "mission site" that serves food and clothing and provides healthcare to 2500 people each month. Laura has served youth and families by preaching, teaching, and building partnerships to support a variety of ministries. She has also developed and led youth programs such as tutoring, a gospel choir, and other learning, serving, and social opportunities for inner-city children.

At CDF, Laura's focus is on expanding Freedom Schools throughout Ohio and developing partnerships with faith and community organizations to empower people to help fulfill CDF's objectives. Laura's interest in CDF began when partnering with CDF-Ohio to promote and conduct Children's Sabbaths and Freedom Schools within her denomination.