About Philly Voice For Change
Who We Are
Our work is grounded in the belief that families and communities must play a central role in shaping the policies, services, and supports that affect their lives. By elevating community voice and lived experience, Philly Voice for Change contributes to a growing national movement of system-impacted leaders working to transform institutions that have historically caused harm.
Our Mission
To prevent family separation and provide services to support stabilization for Philadelphians experiencing poverty by creating a community-based coalition, fostering self-sustaining programs, and delivering essential services to individuals and families in need. Philly Voice for Change is dedicated to empowering communities through innovative solutions, advocacy, and collaborative efforts to address the nuanced needs of communities and to create a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
Our founders
April Lee
April Lee is a dedicated community activist based in Philadelphia, committed to supporting families affected by harmful systems, including the child welfare (family policing) system, the carceral system, and other structures that negatively impact her community.
As a co-founder of Philly Voice, also known as Philly Voice for Change, April works to engage and mobilize community members and activists to push for systemic reforms. Her advocacy extends beyond Philadelphia, contributing to national efforts for justice and family preservation. She serves on the advisory boards of Stop Overreporting Our People (STOP), The Family Justice Law Center, United Family Advocates, and other initiatives aimed at dismantling oppressive systems.
April's commitment to service is evident in every aspect of her life, whether feeding the homeless, facilitating life skills groups, mentoring women in her community, or caring for her own family. Beyond her activism, she has a deep passion for writing and has performed her poetry on numerous stages throughout Philadelphia and beyond.
Yalonda Houston, Esq
Yalonda Houston, JD, MBA, is the co-founder and Executive Director of Philly Voice aka Philly Voice for Change, a non- profit organization servicing system impacted individuals in the City of Philadelphia. A graduate of Widener Law School, Ms. Houston is the owner of the Law office of Yalonda Houston, a Philadelphia Law firm that specialized in Family and Estate Law. Mrs. Houston has been licensed for over 15 years to Practice law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
In addition to her legal expertise, Yalonda holds an MBA and has worked as a business consultant since 2008. She has assisted community members in establishing both for-profit and non-profit organizations and has handled small business mergers and acquisitions. She continues leveraging her diverse knowledge to support family stabilization efforts in and around Philadelphia.
Yalonda also serves on multiple boards, including AlongtheWay.org and Doctor Dash & Friends, both of which are dedicated to supporting seniors and veterans. She is a passionate advocate for an interdisciplinary approach to representation in the child welfare system, as well as assisting families and care providers in services necessary to meeting the current and future needs of their loved ones. I her advocacy and representation her approach to representation and community services helps to support which fosters stronger family relations, promotes stability, and reduces trauma.
Our partners
JMAC For Families
Temple Legal Aid Office
Temple Legal Aid Office
Just Making A Change for Families, better known as JMACforFamilies, is a non-profit organization working to dismantle the family policing system while investing in community support that keeps families together. We are a team of impacted people, social workers, advocates, and organizers working towards the ultimate goal of abolition.
Temple Legal Aid Office
Temple Legal Aid Office
Temple Legal Aid Office
The Temple Legal Aid Office serves low income Philadelphians with legal problems. Clients work with our law students, staff, and attorneys to address legal problems including family law regarding custody, support, and adoption matters.