HELP Center for LGBTQ+ Health

"YPTC has given me complete confidence"

HELP Center for LGBTQ+ Health (HELP) is a community-based LGBTQ+ support organization dedicated to promoting health through innovative, comprehensive, and accessible programs at no cost to its clients. HELP is based in Texas and was founded in 1994 to address a critical need to connect health education and prevention services to marginalized populations who found it difficult or impossible to access programs.

The organization was referred to YPTC by a trusted accounting firm. HELP CEO DeeJay Johannessen explains, “At first, I was hesitant about entering into a fully remote arrangement. However, given that we were beginning our annual audit and had just parted ways with our CFO, we needed experienced support quickly.”

The initial hesitation quickly faded. “From day one, YPTC demonstrated professionalism, clarity of direction, and strong communication,” DeeJay explains. “They understood what needed to be accomplished, kept us well informed throughout the process, and we quickly established a productive and collaborative working relationship.” As HELP began budgeting for the new fiscal year, DeeJay recommended to the Board that they continue their engagement with YPTC rather than move forward with hiring a new CFO.

DeeJay says the YPTC team quickly evaluated HELP’s existing financial procedures, provided thoughtful, strategic recommendations and incorporated best practices smoothly without disrupting operations. He adds, “They are always on time, communicate clearly, know when to escalate requests, and are at the ready to provide customized data and reports tailored to the unique needs of our nonprofit sector.” He especially values YPTC’s model of providing both a dedicated lead and other staff to assist, ensuring continuity and institutional knowledge.

He highlights support provided by YPTC Associate Seth Burnstein: “He has been fantastic to work with. He quickly identified our organization’s priorities and then developed a workflow and communication style individualized for me, making our partnership both productive and seamless. He has always been willing to go the extra mile to meet our needs.”

Reflecting on the experience, DeeJay shares, “I recommend YPTC without hesitation. As a CEO with more than 30 years of experience, this is one of the first times I have not felt the need to scrutinize monthly financials with a fine-tooth comb for errors or inconsistencies.”

He adds, “YPTC has given me complete confidence in the accuracy and integrity of our financial reporting and has significantly reduced the time I spend reviewing and revising financial statements, allowing me to focus on higher-level strategic leadership and my core CEO responsibilities.”