About Us

A Life That Continues to Inspire
DeVonte’ Yates dedicated his life to serving others through advocacy, public service, and community outreach. Devonte' studied at the University of Wisconsin, earning an Associate Degree in Social Work. He furthered his education at Concordia University, where he was placed on the Deans List and recognized for his outstanding achievements. He believed every person deserved dignity, opportunity, and a second chance.

He worked in public service as a Re-entry Case Manager, assisting individuals and families, supported returning citizens as they transitioned back into their communities. He actively advocated for economic justice through the Fight for $15 movement. A Defining moment in his life came when he became an activist for the "Fight For $15" movement advocating for higher minimum wage. Throughout his life he worked for The Milwaukee County at the Court House, The DMV, and several other state and county agencies. His passion for helping others extended to volunteering with local shelters, mentorship, domestic violent programs, The Criminal Justice Relief Board, and many other organizations. He enjoyed connecting people with the resources they needed to rebuild their lives. His most recent role was as a State Organizer with Vote Ryders, where he worked on reintegration and rehabilitation programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. He taught financial literacy and job readiness courses, helping others transition successfully into society.

DeVonte' tragically passed away while traveling to work, at a jail, volunteering on his day off to share hope, encouragement, and support with inmates. Although DeVonte’ tragically passed away in 2025, his legacy lives on through D&A Open Arms Inc. Every act of compassion, every family served, and every second chance offered reflects the values he lived by and the impact he continues to make through this organization.

A DEDICATION TO CONTINUED SERVICE
Ashante’ Yates carries forward her family’s legacy of service through her professional work and education. She has worked in the field of social work, mental health, and the criminal justice system. Ashante' attended Stevens Point University starting her career choice. She then attended the University Of Wisconsin where she received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. She furthered her education at the University of Tennessee where she graduated with a Masters Degree in Science and Social Work. Ashante', with a distinguish career dedicated to serving individuals and families in crisis, has devoted her life to advocacy, rehabilitation, and community empowerment. Her extensive professional experience includes Probation and Parole in offender rehabilitation, case management, providing supervision, community support, and helping individuals overcome barriers to successfully transition back into their community to build a productive future. she has worked in emergency shelters, providing counseling services and placement within hospital settings, supporting survivors through domestic crisis hotlines, and customers service in Research and Information Support Specialist.

Ashante' diverse background has equipped her with a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, behavioral health, and community outreach. Through every role she has held, she has remained committed to restoring hope, promoting resilience, and helping individuals overcome life's most challenging circumstances.

Ashante's passion for service knows no boundaries. She believes that every individual deserves compassion, dignity, and access to meaningful support. Her unwavering commitment to helping others reflect a philosophy that service has no limits, and neither does her dedication to transforming lives and strengthening communities.

Her commitment to compassion, rehabilitation, and community care reflects the heart of D&A Open Arms Inc., ensuring the organization’s mission continues to bring hope, healing, and second chances to those who need it most.

A Mother’s Purpose. A Lasting Legacy.
For Veronica Williams, serving others has always been more than a profession—it has been her life’s calling.

As a U.S. Army Veteran, former 911 dispatcher, retired Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office officer, Ordained Minister, and Certified Grief Counselor, Veronica has spent decades supporting people through some of life’s most difficult moments. Her career has been rooted in public service, justice, and compassion.

But her greatest role has always been being a mother.

After experiencing the heartbreaking loss of her parents, her husband, and tragically her son, DeVonte’, Veronica chose to transform unimaginable grief into a mission of hope. Inspired by DeVonte’s passion for community advocacy and her daughter Ashante’s dedication to mental health and rehabilitation, she founded D&A Open Arms Inc.

Today, the organization stands as a living tribute to service, healing, and second chances. Through outreach, advocacy, mentorship, and compassionate support, Veronica continues to honor her family’s legacy by helping individuals and families overcome challenges and build brighter futures.