YouthConnect Appointed Keyla Jackson to Board

The Boston-based organization added the local leader to its board of directors this week.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People

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YouthConnect has appointed Keyla Jackson, the interim executive director of Facilities Management at Boston Public Schools, to its board of directors. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

YouthConnect has appointed Keyla Jackson to its board of directors. Jackson currently serves as the interim executive director of Facilities Management at Boston Public Schools.

Why it matters

YouthConnect was founded to provide essential support for youth facing violence and fragmented resources. Adding experienced local leadership helps the organization maintain its operational focus in Boston.

YouthConnect now manages operations across 10 district stations and specialized units. This represents a significant expansion from its 1996 founding when the group started with a single social worker.

The players

Keyla Jackson

She serves as the interim executive director of Facilities Management at Boston Public Schools and resides in Dorchester.

YouthConnect

This Boston-based organization works to address youth violence and support systems through embedded social work services.

The details

Jackson, a Dorchester resident, brings extensive experience from her previous work at MassHousing and her role in establishing the Jamaica Plain Hub. She holds a master's degree in Counseling Psychology and a graduate certificate in Human Resources Management from Northeastern University.

Timeline

  1. YouthConnect was established in 1996.

  2. Keyla Jackson was appointed to the board on September 23, 2026.

Market Landscape

The appointment follows the collaborative, community-based model previously established by the Jamaica Plain Hub initiative. It positions YouthConnect to strengthen its governance as it scales its social support services against regional rivals in the nonprofit sector.

This move does not result in changes to existing service levels or retail pricing for the public. Local residents and families can expect continued support through the current 10 district stations and units.

The takeaway

Board appointments in local nonprofits often signal a shift toward expanded community engagement and administrative oversight. Residents should watch for upcoming organizational initiatives as new board members begin their terms.

Further reading

Learn more about local leadership changes in our People section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Dorchester Reporter.