On Saturday, June 21, the NAACP Cleveland Branch hosted its 113th Freedom Fund Dinner, during which it honored PEP CEO Habeebah Rasheed Grimes with the Community Leadership Award. This award, along with its Rising Leadership Award and Unsung Hero Award, aim to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields such as healing, equity, entrepreneurship, law, and community advocacy.

In its announcement on Facebook, the NAACP Cleveland Branch stated:

The NAACP Cleveland Branch is proud to present our 2025 Community Leadership Awards to [someone] whose impact reaches deep into the heart of our region—through healing, equity, and entrepreneurship.

Habeebah Rasheed Grimes @habeebahgrimes

As CEO of Positive Education Program (PEP), Habeebah has made it her life’s mission to support healing in children facing trauma and mental health challenges. A nationally respected voice on trauma-informed care and equity, she is also the creator of the No Crystal Stair podcast and serves on several influential local and national boards. Her leadership has helped shape a more culturally responsive and healing-centered future for Northeast Ohio’s youth.

The event is a celebration of leadership, community impact and the ongoing fight for justice and equity. To learn more about the NAACP’s Cleveland Branch, visit their website.