Our Leadership

Melissa A. Keaster, Executive Director

Ms. Keaster joined Youth Oasis in 2010 after working as a program analyst for the federal government in Washington, DC. She has over six years of experience working with organizations like CASA. Ms. Keaster completed her undergraduate work at Bucknell University and also has a Masters degree in Public Policy from George Mason University with a concentration in Social Policy.

Jacqueline Jefferson, Program Manager

Ms. Jefferson effectively manages and runs the Transitional Living Program. She graduated from Southern University and has been with Youth Oasis for 2 years. Ms. Jefferson enjoys making a positive impact on the children we serve.

Jeffrey Fairley, Program Manager

Mr. Fairley manages the Basic Center. He joined us after working for Hope Ministries and Covenant House in New Orleans. Mr. Fairley brings with him experience with outreach to the homeless and joined Youth Oasis in mid-2011.

Yvette Ridgley, Social Worker

Ms. Ridgley is the Social Worker on staff for the youth at both the Transitional Living Program and the Basic Center. She runs the Life Skills program which teaches our youth basic life skills they will need to succeed on their own and is always available for counseling sessions or just to talk.

Affiliations/Memberships
Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Agencies (LANO)- www.lano.org
Louisiana Association of Child and Family Agencies (LACFA)- www.lacfa.org
Capital Area Alliance for the Homeless (CAAH)- www.homelessinbr.org
Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC)- www.brac.org
National Safe Place - www.nationalsafeplace.org
Mid-City Merchants