In honor of Black History Month, Meagan Dunn, CEO of Covenant House Michigan is sharing her experiences as a Black leader, the importance of representation, and how her leadership empowers the youth CHMI serves.
Q: How does being a Black leader influence the way you connect with youth at Covenant House?
Meagan Dunn: Being a Black leader allows me to show up for our residents in a deeply personal and powerful way. When they see me, they see someone who understands what it’s like to navigate systems that weren’t built for us. It’s not just about shared experiences — it’s about shared resilience, shared culture, and shared strength.
For so many of the young people we serve, the world has told them they’re invisible, that their voices don’t matter. But when I sit across from them, I remind them that they are everything. Their Blackness is not a barrier — it’s a source of pride and power.
Q: Can you share a moment when representation in leadership made a difference for a young person at Covenant House?
Meagan Dunn: One moment that stands out is a young Black woman who came to us from our Grand Rapids site. She had experienced a lot of harm in her community and wanted to be in a space where she felt understood. When she transferred to our Detroit site, she was withdrawn.
One day, I sat with her at lunch and just started talking – sharing my background, asking about her story. Slowly, she began to open up. Over time, she found her voice. Now, she’s one of our biggest advocates, sharing her experience and helping others feel seen and accepted. She told me she’s never felt this supported before, and that means everything.
Q: What challenges do Black nonprofit leaders face, and how do you navigate them?
Meagan Dunn: There are challenges, especially in fundraising. But when I see a challenge, I rise to meet it. I educate myself, and immerse myself completely in whatever the challenge is.
At the same time, I recognize the importance of self-care. We push forward, but we also need to give ourselves the grace to rest and recover.
Q: What inspired you to take on this leadership role at Covenant House Michigan?
Meagan Dunn: I’ve always been drawn to mission-driven work. Early in my career, I knew I wanted to lead an organization that served the most vulnerable in our communities. Every step of my journey—from working in local and state government to leading community health initiatives—has reinforced my passion for public service.
Leading Covenant House Michigan is an incredible privilege. This work keeps me up at night, but it also wakes me up in the morning with renewed energy to pursue our mission. I’m here to be a voice for young people who feel like they don’t have one.
Q: Is there a message you’d like to share with the broader Covenant House Community about the importance of representation in leadership?
Meagan Dunn: This work isn’t just about my identity as a Black woman. But I take it as a huge responsibility. It’s also about creating a space where young people feel safe.
At Covenant House Michigan, we create a space where young people feel valued and empowered to be their authentic selves. To learn more, visit covenanthousemi.org.
