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Fonda J. Royster, MA

Founder & Executive Director
Open Arms Transformation Living (OATL) & RESA Solutions LLC (RESA)
TOLEDO, Ohio

Fonda J. Royster, MA, is the Founder of Open Arms Transformation Living (OATL) (oatltoledo.org) and the Founder of RESA Solutions LLC (resasolutions.com). She brings a wealth of expertise in social services, human development, and community-based programming, with graduate degrees in Human Services and Addiction Counseling. Her leadership is deeply informed by her personal journey, having experienced unaccompanied youth homelessness as a teenager, which shaped her commitment to ensuring youth have access to the essentials, guidance, and opportunities needed to thrive.

Under her direction, OATL has become a vital resource in Toledo, Ohio, for at-risk youth ages 9–20. The organization provides trauma-informed education, mentoring, and basic needs support to young people impacted by dating violence, exploitation, and poverty. Through innovative partnerships with schools, libraries, social service agencies, and health providers, OATL equips youth with the tools to build resilience, improve mental health, and achieve academic and personal success. Recent program outcomes include 70% of students advancing academically or graduating and 67% of summer participants reporting increased self-esteem.

Fonda is also the founder of RESA Solutions LLC, a consulting practice dedicated to designing trauma-responsive systems and training professionals in education, healthcare, and social services. Her work emphasizes culturally competent, survivor-informed practices that address the intersections of mental health, equity, and violence prevention.

A passionate advocate and sought-after speaker, Fonda has trained legal, medical, mental health, and educational professionals on the dynamics of youth violence and exploitation. She continues to use her voice and expertise to elevate marginalized youth and inspire systemic change.

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