Yusra Arab
Minneapolis,MN
Summary
Dynamic and compassionate professional with a rich background in public service and healthcare, offering over a decade of experience in policy development, mental health advocacy, housing coordination, and operational management. Demonstrated success as a Policy Aide for the Minneapolis City Council, where I honed my skills in policy analysis and stakeholder engagement to drive meaningful legislative changes. With five years as a Mental Health Practitioner, I have a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health challenges, delivering exceptional care and support to both children and adults. My role as a Housing Coordinator emphasized my commitment to social justice, effectively assisting the unhoused and at-risk populations in securing stable housing solutions. As an Operational Manager at an autism center, I have excelled in streamlining operations, enhancing client satisfaction, and fostering a collaborative environment among clients, employees, and behavioral therapists, including BCBAs and QSPs. Skilled in cross-functional leadership, strategic planning, and community outreach, I am passionate about creating positive change and improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Guidance L.L.C
Saint Paul, MN
03.2022 - Current
- Enhance Housing Stability – Ensure that clients experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness secure and maintain stable, long-term housing by providing comprehensive housing stabilization services.
- Program Development & Compliance – Oversee the agency’s compliance with Minnesota’s Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) regulations, ensuring all services meet DHS requirements and industry best practices.
- Client Advocacy & Support – Advocate for clients, particularly BIPOC and vulnerable populations, by connecting them to necessary resources such as mental health support, substance use treatment, and employment assistance.
- Operational Efficiency – Manage daily agency operations, coordinate housing services, and ensure that all staff follow best practices to maximize efficiency and client success.
- Community Partnerships & Networking – Develop and maintain strong partnerships with landlords, housing authorities, and community organizations to expand housing opportunities for clients.
- Financial Sustainability – Oversee budgeting, funding applications, and reimbursement processes to maintain financial stability and ensure continued service delivery.
- Staff Supervision & Development – Recruit, train, and support staff, including housing coordinators and case managers, to provide high-quality services tailored to clients’ needs.
- Culturally Responsive Services – Ensure that housing stabilization services are equitable, inclusive, and tailored to the diverse cultural and linguistic needs of clients.
- Crisis Intervention & Problem Solving – Address urgent client needs by developing effective crisis response strategies and resolving housing-related barriers.
- Long-Term Growth & Expansion – Identify opportunities to expand services, secure new funding sources, and increase the agency’s impact within the community.
City Council Member
Candidate for City Council
Minneapolis, MN
01.2021 - 11.2021
- Raised $116,030 in Campaign Contributions – Led successful grassroots fundraising efforts to secure financial support for campaign initiatives.
- Developed and Executed Social Media Strategy – Implemented a digital outreach plan that resulted in 3,000+ followers and high engagement rates.
- Engaged with Constituents – Participated in community events, debates, and public forums to advocate for local issues and connect with voters.
- Achieved Strong Electoral Performance – Received 4,000+ votes in the general election, earning over 42% of the total count.
- Established Local Government Initiatives – Created policy objectives, performance standards, and strategic initiatives to enhance government operations.
- Facilitated Intergovernmental Collaboration – Built professional relationships with city, county, state, federal, and municipal government offices to address regional issues and improve services for residents.
- Strengthened Political Partnerships – Worked with elected officials and policymakers to advance shared agendas and legislative priorities.
- Advocated for BIPOC Communities – Championed policies and initiatives addressing racial equity, affordable housing, and economic development for marginalized communities.
- Expanded Access to Resources – Connected BIPOC residents with essential services, including housing assistance, healthcare, and workforce development programs.
- Promoted Civic Engagement – Encouraged political participation among BIPOC communities by organizing voter registration drives and public forums.
- Addressed Systemic Barriers – Worked to dismantle disparities in housing, education, and employment by collaborating with grassroots organizations and community leaders.
Council Member, Policy Aide
City of Minneapolis
Minneapolis, MN
01.2018 - 10.2020
- Provided High-Level Administrative Support – Assisted management teams with special projects, ensuring timely completion and alignment with organizational goals.
- Coordinated Events & Meetings – Scheduled and prepared for internal and external meetings, events, and travel arrangements for leadership and stakeholders.
- Managed Communications & Documentation – Drafted, edited, proofread, and submitted official letters, public comments, and policy-related communications.
- Oversaw Project Management & Execution – Managed project timelines, tracked deliverables, and ensured the successful completion of initiatives, including social impact projects.
- Resolved Operational Challenges – Identified and recommended solutions for daily operational and administrative issues, ensuring efficiency and smooth workflow.
- Conducted Research & Policy Analysis – Evaluated and summarized data, maintained up-to-date knowledge of policies, and provided insights to inform decision-making.
- Facilitated Stakeholder Engagement – Analyzed meeting summaries, participated in teleconferences, and coordinated with policymakers, key stakeholders, and community leaders.
- Developed & Advocated for Policy Initiatives – Provided policy briefs and participated in discussions with state legislators to develop progressive plans addressing community needs.
- Championed Equity & Inclusion – As an immigrant, Black, Muslim woman, brought a unique and valuable perspective to policy discussions, advocating for underrepresented communities in a highly diverse urban environment.
Mental Health Practitioner, Compliance Supervisor
Apex Mental Health Services, Headway Emotional Health Services
Minneapolis, MN
11.2016 - 04.2019
- Provided Individual & Family Skills Training – Delivered evidence-based skills training in school and community settings, supporting clients in building life and coping skills.
- Developed Therapeutic Relationships – Fostered trust with clients, guiding them in setting and achieving personal recovery and rehabilitative goals.
- Created Individualized Support Plans – Assessed client needs and prepared personalized documentation for each session to track progress and outcomes.
- Collaborated with Key Stakeholders – Coordinated services with school staff, families, case managers, and medical personnel to ensure comprehensive client support.
- Conducted Risk & Compliance Assessments – Identified and evaluated areas of business risk, ensuring adherence to regulatory and organizational standards.
- Managed Compliance & Internal Audits – Developed and enforced internal audit policies, monitored compliance breaches, and implemented corrective actions.
- Ensured Regulatory Adherence – Reviewed new products, systems, and processes to maintain compliance with local and international best practices.
- Led Investigations & Risk Management – Conducted ad hoc investigations into identified risks, providing recommendations to mitigate potential exposures.
- Streamlined Audit & Reporting Processes – Collected and analyzed compliance data, ensuring timely and accurate reporting to management and risk committees.
Supervisor
Lighthouse Wellness Center, Associate, Mental Health Practitioner
Bloomington, MN
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Provided Individual & Family Skills Training – Delivered personalized skills training in school and community settings to support clients' mental health and daily living.
- Developed Therapeutic Relationships – Built strong, trust-based relationships with clients to foster growth, resilience, and independence.
- Facilitated Community Integration – Assisted clients in transitioning to community living by developing coping strategies, social skills, and self-sufficiency.
- Taught Basic Living & Social Skills – Supported clients in improving daily living, communication, and problem-solving skills to enhance their quality of life.
- Conducted Medication Education – Provided guidance on medication management, helping clients understand their prescriptions and adhere to treatment plans.
- Created Individualized Recovery Plans – Established personal recovery and rehabilitative goals with clients, tailoring services to their unique needs.
- Coordinated Multidisciplinary Support – Worked closely with school staff, families, case managers, and medical personnel to ensure a holistic approach to client care.
- Maintained Accurate Documentation – Prepared individualized reports for each session, tracking progress and adjusting support strategies as needed.
Center Supervisor
Salama Child Care Center
Minneapolis, MN
05.2014 - 11.2014
- Managed Infant Care Scheduling – Planned, coordinated, and maintained structured daily schedules for infants to ensure consistency and proper care.
- Supervised Staff & Meal Preparation – Oversaw employees in preparing nutritious meals and snacks while ensuring adherence to dietary guidelines.
- Provided Staff Support & Guidance – Assisted employees with scheduling breaks and addressing concerns related to infants and their guardians.
- Ensured Hygiene & Safety Standards – Maintained high standards of cleanliness, changed diapers as needed, and ensured children's overall well-being.
- Organized Educational Activities – Developed engaging activities and age-appropriate curriculum for older children to promote cognitive and social development.
- Implemented Daily Routines – Created structured schedules to support children’s developmental needs and maintain a stable learning environment.
- Tracked Child Development & Progress – Kept detailed records of each child’s interests, progress, and any concerns to support individualized care.
- Maintained Parent Communication – Established and maintained open communication with parents, providing updates and addressing concerns, including emergencies.
School Age Teacher
Salama Child Care Center
Minneapolis, MN
11.2011 - 12.2012
- Designed & Implemented Lesson Plans – Prepared daily and weekly lesson plans to align with state curriculum standards and support student learning goals.
- Collaborated with Faculty & Staff – Worked with educators to develop and implement curriculum strategies that enhanced student engagement and achievement.
- Integrated Technology in Instruction – Utilized digital tools and resources to drive instruction, personalize learning, and maximize student success.
- Developed Balanced Instructional Programs – Created a mix of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to support diverse learning styles and needs.
- Supported Student Development – Identified and addressed cognitive, social, and behavioral challenges by collaborating with faculty and support staff.
- Facilitated Personalized Learning – Designed differentiated instruction and activities to cater to individual student strengths and learning needs.
- Taught Core Subjects & Life Skills – Provided subject-specific instruction while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills.
- Promoted Equity & Inclusion – Cultivated an inclusive learning environment by building strong relationships with students, families, and staff.
- Maintained a Positive Learning Culture – Upheld a values-based approach to foster a supportive, respectful, and productive classroom atmosphere.
Elementary School Teacher
Al Amal School
Minneapolis, MN
10.2010 - 06.2011
- Created a Positive Learning Environment – Maintained a safe, organized classroom and fostered trust and respect through positive behavior management techniques.
- Delivered Engaging Instruction – Taught subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills, adapting methods to enhance student success.
- Ongoing Professional Growth – Participated in in-service training to stay updated on policies and new educational strategies.
- Data-Driven Instruction – Administered tests, analyzed results, and adjusted lessons to address learning gaps and provide enrichment opportunities.
- Encouraged Student Choice & Creativity – Empowered students by offering choices in learning topics and activities to spark creativity and engagement.
- Collaborated on Classroom Management – Worked with school administrators to develop and implement effective grade-level policies.
- Taught Accelerated Literacy Programs – Led small group instruction to support reading development, fostering a love of reading through library visits and book selection.
Teacher
Salama Child Care Center
Minneapolis, MN
12.2009 - 10.2010
- Maintained Positive Learning Environments – Prepared and organized classrooms to support students' academic, physical, and emotional growth.
- Managed Student Behavior – Established clear rules and procedures to maintain order and promote positive classroom behavior.
- Facilitated Critical Thinking – Encouraged student discussion and critical thinking using a mix of traditional and modern teaching techniques.
- Built Strong Relationships – Developed positive, collaborative relationships with students, parents, and staff to support student success.
- Designed & Presented Lesson Plans – Delivered lesson plans in academic subjects using diverse instructional strategies, including hands-on activities.
- Supervised Students – Monitored students throughout the day, both in the classroom and during breaks, to ensure safety and engagement.
- Assessed Student Progress – Graded assignments, exams, and projects to track student growth and provide targeted feedback.
- Supported Fellow Educators – Assisted with assignment development, special projects, grading, and administrative tasks.
- Held Parent-Teacher Conferences – Scheduled and conducted conferences to keep parents informed about their children's academic performance.
- Developed Individualized Curricula – Designed tailored lessons for students needing additional academic support to help them achieve success.
Personal Care Assistant
Twin Cities Care Services
Saint Paul, MN
04.2005 - 09.2010
- Managed Client Care Logistics – Coordinated grocery shopping, medication management, appointment scheduling, and meal planning to support clients' daily needs.
- Supported Daily Living Activities – Assisted clients with personal hygiene, including grooming and bathing, to maintain health and well-being.
- Maintained Cleanliness & Hygiene – Ensured a safe living environment by making beds, sweeping floors, sanitizing surfaces, and laundering clothing and bedding to prevent infection.
- Provided Compassionate Patient Care – Offered ongoing, personalized care to clients, ensuring comfort and addressing their unique needs.
- Supported Nutritional Health – Assisted with meal planning and preparation in alignment with clients' dietary requirements and health goals.
Assistant Manager of Transportation and Interpretation
Twincities Interpretation and Transportation
05.2006 - 08.2010
- Managed Payroll Operations – Administered payroll accounts and issued paychecks, ensuring accuracy and timely distribution to employees.
- Coordinated Client Reservations – Managed client reservations and maintained detailed reservation records to ensure smooth service delivery.
- Scheduled Medical Appointments – Organized and scheduled medical appointments for clients, ensuring timely and effective care.
- Led Employee Training & Supervision – Implemented training programs for new hires and supervised department managers, shift leads, and production staff.
- Optimized Workforce & Workflow – Organized schedules, shift coverage, and workflows to meet business demands and enhance operational efficiency.
- Delegated Tasks for Productivity – Assigned daily tasks to team members, optimizing group productivity and meeting department goals.
- Enforced Operational Standards – Ensured adherence to company policies and procedures, strengthening operational efficiency across departments.
- Supervised Staff & Promoted Efficiency – Led teams by directing activities, driving productivity, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Assisted with Employee Evaluations – Collaborated with supervisors to evaluate employee performance and implemented initiatives to promote continuous improvement.
Bank Teller
TCF, National Bank
Minneapolis, MN
10.2006 - 10.2008
- Processed Foreign Exchange Transactions – Managed foreign exchange currency transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with financial regulations.
- Provided Product Information – Explained a variety of financial products to bank customers, helping them make informed decisions.
- Conducted Cash Transactions – Cashed checks, verified customer identification, and checked account balances in line with bank policies.
- Managed High-Volume Service – Efficiently served a large number of customers during busy shifts, maintaining composure and professionalism under pressure.
- Delivered Exceptional Customer Service – Greeted customers and provided a pleasant, positive experience throughout the transaction process.
- Reconciled Cash & Checks – Ensured accuracy by reconciling cash and check transactions against computer records at the end of each shift.
- Assisted with Account Inquiries – Responded to customer inquiries, offering assistance with account updates and resolving concerns.
Sales Associate
Target
Saint Paul, MN
03.2003 - 07.2004
- Processed Sales Transactions – Assisted with ringing up sales at registers, ensuring accurate and efficient transactions.
- Trained & Mentored New Hires – Provided training to new employees, helping them quickly adapt to their roles and responsibilities.
- Suggested Improvements – Contributed actionable ideas that improved store operations and customer service outcomes.
- Provided Product Assistance – Assisted customers in locating products, answering inquiries, and offering knowledgeable product advice.
- Engaged Customers Professionally – Built rapport with customers through friendly and professional dialogue to understand and fulfill their needs.
- Answered Customer Inquiries – Responded to incoming calls, providing information about store offerings, products, and services.
- Maintained Store Organization – Completed daily recovery tasks, ensuring store areas were clean and organized to maximize productivity.
- Collaborated with Sales Team – Worked closely with colleagues to meet and exceed group sales targets and objectives.
Education
Master of Arts - Health and Human Services Administration
St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN01.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN01.2010
Skills
- Extensive experience with
- Microsoft Word, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Access, and PowerPoint
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to build successful relationships
- Ability to develop and complete projects without continued direct supervision
- Demonstrated time management and detailed-oriented skills
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and to meet frequently occurring deadlines
- Outstanding conflict resolution skills
- Familiar with multi-ethnic populations
- Communications Strategy
- Team Leadership, Training and Development
- Stakeholder Management
- Policy Development
- Leadership and People Development
- Board Oversight
- Operational Analysis
- Strategic Planning and Execution
Interests
Leadership
Ka Joog
Corporate Outreach Specialist, 2022 to 2024
- Identifying potential business partners
- Developing partnerships and collaborations
- Increasing brand visibility
- Promoting corporate social responsibility
- Building goodwill and trust
B.R.A.V.E Foundation Inc.
Executive Director. 2020 to present.
- Executive Director of BRAVE Foundation Inc, a 501© (3) status nonprofit organization with the aim of serving young Somali American women in the Twin Cities metro area.
- BRAVE is an organization for women by women dedicated to empowering and encouraging young women within the Somali diaspora community.
Somali Student Association
Vice President/Academic, 2005 to 2006
- Chaired 40-member body representing each academic department.
- Participated in college wide policy decisions concerning ethical issues.
Student Council,
Treasurer, 2004 to 2005
- Set goals and guidelines for school events.
- Set mission statements to increase intellectual engagement and academic rigor in students
Languages
Timeline
Executive Director
Guidance L.L.C
03.2022 - Current
City Council Member
Candidate for City Council
01.2021 - 11.2021
Council Member, Policy Aide
City of Minneapolis
01.2018 - 10.2020
Mental Health Practitioner, Compliance Supervisor
Apex Mental Health Services, Headway Emotional Health Services
11.2016 - 04.2019
Supervisor
Lighthouse Wellness Center, Associate, Mental Health Practitioner
01.2015 - 01.2018
Center Supervisor
Salama Child Care Center
05.2014 - 11.2014
School Age Teacher
Salama Child Care Center
11.2011 - 12.2012
Elementary School Teacher
Al Amal School
10.2010 - 06.2011
Teacher
Salama Child Care Center
12.2009 - 10.2010
Bank Teller
TCF, National Bank
10.2006 - 10.2008
Assistant Manager of Transportation and Interpretation
Twincities Interpretation and Transportation
05.2006 - 08.2010
Personal Care Assistant
Twin Cities Care Services
04.2005 - 09.2010
Sales Associate
Target
03.2003 - 07.2004
Master of Arts - Health and Human Services Administration
St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Minnesota
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