Empowered to Serve Business Accelerator^™: Akron/Canton

Darletta Turner is the Founder and CEO of Progressive Community Initiatives, a community-based organization advancing accessible, culturally responsive mental health services. She leads the development of programs grounded in trust, accountability, and strong clinical compliance, with a focus on building systems that are both effective and sustainable. With extensive experience in clinical supervision, program development, and regulatory oversight, Darletta is known for relationship-driven leadership that strengthens teams and fosters meaningful partnerships. Her work prioritizes ethical practice and long-term impact, ensuring services are responsive to community needs while meeting the highest professional standards. Through Progressive Community Initiatives, Darletta is committed to expanding mental health access and supporting lasting wellness outcomes in the communities she serves.

Donte D. Cargill is the Founder and Executive Director of Patricia Ann Cargill Charities, a Northeast Ohio nonprofit dedicated to addressing hunger and advancing community well-being. Established in 2022 in honor of his mother’s legacy of service, the organization operates across Summit, Medina, and Stark counties, providing nutritious food, educational programming, and community resources. Under Donte’s leadership, the charity has distributed more than 800,000 pounds of food, mobilized thousands of volunteer hours, and served tens of thousands of individuals. Central to its work is the Feed program—Feeding, Educating, Empowering, Deliverance—which reflects a holistic approach to breaking cycles of food insecurity. Donte’s leadership emphasizes sustainable solutions that address both immediate needs and systemic challenges.

Imokhai Okolo is a trial attorney, community organizer, and social justice leader working at the intersection of law, advocacy, and community empowerment. He is the Co-Founder of People Feeding People, a free mobile grocery distribution program addressing food apartheid in Akron, Ohio. In addition to his legal practice, Imokhai serves as a Community Organizer with The Freedom Bloc, supporting efforts to build Black political power and leadership across Northeast Ohio. His work spans criminal justice reform, housing justice, and advocacy for the dignity and humanity of marginalized communities. Through both legal and grassroots strategies, Imokhai advances equitable systems that prioritize access, accountability, and community-led change.

India Nunn is a community agriculture leader with Let’s Grow Akron, bringing more than 15 years of experience in urban farming, sustainable agriculture, and community-based food systems. Beginning as a community gardener, India advanced into leadership through hands-on farm training and formal education, including completion of the Countryside’s New Farmer Academy and a BS in Biology from the University of Akron. With a strong focus on soil health and ecological farming practices, India supports programs that strengthen local food production and education. In addition to agricultural expertise, India contributes skills in operations, communications, and digital engagement as Executive Assistant and Social Media Marketing Manager. Their work supports Let’s Grow Akron’s mission to build healthier, more resilient communities through food and farming.