Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamika Perry
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Tamika Perry transitioned into the role of CEO at Dallas Hope Charities in 2021 following her contributions as a volunteer and then House Manager. She welcomes the opportunity to directly serve the LGBTQ+ community after 25 years of nonprofit experience primarily in Chicago, where she expanded service programs at Gilda’s Club, Vital Bridges, and Catholic Charities, as well as obtained a Masters in Nonprofit Management from Spertus Institute. More recently, Tamika developed partnerships and community engagement as Highland Park United Methodist Church’s Impact Coordinator.
Tamika grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois with her mother and two sisters. Committed to paying it forward, Tamika seeks to share the many skills she’s learned from her family and ultimately create an environment that feels like home for both DHC’s clients and staff. Grateful to work alongside some of those who have been involved since the organization’s beginnings, Tamika is motivated by DHC’s board, staff, and volunteers—all of whom consistently prove their dedication to DHC’s mission.
When she’s not building partnerships or planning events, Tamika enjoys playing video games and staying active. Most of all, Tamika loves spending time with her partner of more than 20 years, who consistently pushes her to become the best version of herself.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly hasn’t been without its challenges. Dallas Hope Charities relies heavily on donations, grants, and fundraising efforts, and securing consistent funding is a significant hurdle—especially with the economic shifts we’re experiencing and the changing priorities of donors and the community.
Coming from Chicago, it was difficult at first to build relationships with the local community, donors, and volunteers here in Dallas. Gaining the trust and support I needed took time and effort. But I was incredibly fortunate to be welcomed with open arms and a great deal of support. From the Dallas Hope Charities board members, LGBT community leaders dedicated to changing the lives of these young adults.
One of the biggest pressures is the need to expand our services. 40 % of homeless young adults identify as LGBT. My goal is to maintain and grow the existing programs Dallas Hope Charities offers, which is a delicate balance. The demand for our work is greater than ever, and while it’s difficult to manage expansion and sustainability at the same time, I know it’s crucial for the community we serve. We receive over 150 inquiries a year about housing and the need for housing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We are proud to operate Dallas Hope Center™, the city’s LGBTQ-focused homeless youth transitional living center and extension program. By helping provide inclusive spaces for at-risk, homeless LGBTQ youth (18 to 24), we hope to change the lives of those who experience high rates of conduct disorder, post-traumatic stress, and suicidal behavior.
In June 2020, we launched Collective Hope Coalition™, an initiative aimed at eliminating suicide among LGBTQ community in the Dallas area.
Dallas Hope Charities is working with the Dallas Police Department through the Safe Place program to spread awareness and education in the community by encouraging victims to report ALL crimes, especially hate crimes, in hopes of reducing the risk of suicide within our LGBTQ+ community. The Safe Place program will help bring the LGBTQ+ community, the Dallas Police Department, local businesses, social organizations, and education centers together to create a safe place and city for all.
We are working to develop Hopeful Discussions, a series that is geared toward reducing homophobia by increasing understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and issues to educate and build a more inclusive community.
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We’re best known for offering Dallas Hope Housing, the first LGBTQ+ focused transitional living center in North Texas, which provides a safe and affirming space for young adults experiencing homelessness.
Our work goes beyond housing—we offer wraparound services like life skills training, access to mental health resources, and educational support to help these young people build a path to self-sufficiency. Our organization is deeply committed to providing both immediate relief and long-term solutions for those in need, especially those who often face discrimination or lack of access to traditional support systems.
We specialize in fostering inclusivity and empowerment, making sure that everyone, regardless of their background or identity, has the opportunity to thrive.
We’re best known for offering Dallas Hope Housing, the first LGBTQ+ focused transitional living center in North Texas, which provides a safe and affirming space for young adults experiencing homelessness.
Our work goes beyond housing—we offer wraparound services like life skills training, access to mental health resources, and educational support to help these young people build a path to self-sufficiency. Our organization is deeply committed to providing both immediate relief and long-term solutions for those in need, especially those who often face discrimination or lack of access to traditional support systems.
We specialize in fostering inclusivity and empowerment, making sure that everyone, regardless of their background or identity, has the opportunity to thrive.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Coffee Will Make You Black – April Sinclair; All of E. Lynn Harris’s books, Invisible Life, etc., B-Boy Blues – James Earl Hardy were some of the first books I read that made me feel comfortable with who I am. My most recent books are The Accommodation and When we walk by is what I am currently reading.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dallashopecharities.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dallashopecharities/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DallasHopeCharities/
