We recently connected with Lasheena Williams and have shared our conversation below.
Lasheena , thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.
My generosity is rooted in the profound impact that the kindness and selflessness of others have had on my life. I have chosen to lead a life of giving because I recognize the significance of the support and assistance I’ve received from my family, friends, teachers, colleagues, and even strangers. Their unselfish acts have shaped me into the person I am today, and I hold an everlasting sense of gratitude for their contributions.
As a result, I am driven to give back to others with the hope of creating a positive influence on their lives, just as I have experienced. The generosity I extend is a way for me to pay forward the care and opportunities that were bestowed upon me. It is my aspiration to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around me, and through my actions, I strive to provide the same kind of support and inspiration that helped shape my own journey.
In essence, my generosity is a reflection of the interconnectedness of humanity and the powerful ripple effect that acts of kindness can create. I am motivated by the belief that by giving to others, I can contribute to a cycle of positivity and empowerment, fostering a sense of unity and compassion that can transform lives in ways similar to how my own life was transformed.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a native of South Florida and have dedicated over 15 years of my life to program development and nonprofit management, fueled by my passion for community service and the desire to create thriving environments. Throughout my journey, I have contributed my expertise to both local and nationally-recognized organizations, working tirelessly to support and uplift my community.
My involvement in youth development led me to play a strategic role in the growth and success of a national youth development organization. I was responsible for designing, implementing, and assessing various youth programs, and my commitment to this cause eventually led to the establishment of L.O.V.E Our Youth in 2012. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to supporting youth programs that foster confidence and collaboration among local partners, resulting in a more impactful community. Due to my dedication to youth development, I’ve garnered national recognition for my accomplishments and advocacy.
My professional skill set encompasses a wide range of capabilities, including program and event planning, grant writing, fund management, public speaking, strategic planning, program evaluation, and public relations. I have overseen the management of more than $30 million in grant funds allocated to youth-based programs and services within Orange County, FL. My academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master of Nonprofit Management (MNM) from the University of Central Florida. Additionally, I hold certifications as a nonprofit professional (CNP) and a youth mental health first aider.
Driven by my passion for community, I established Nonprofit Enthusiast as a platform to provide comprehensive support to nonprofit organizations. With firsthand experience as a direct service provider, program administrator, nonprofit founder, and funder, I understand the challenges faced by nonprofits from various perspectives. At Nonprofit Enthusiast, we are committed to empowering nonprofits by equipping them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in a complex landscape.
Our client-centered approach prioritizes a deep understanding of each organization’s unique needs and goals. We believe in forming strong relationships based on trust, transparency, and effective communication. We remain up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices, enabling us to offer innovative solutions to the challenges that nonprofits encounter today.
Through our services, we have made a significant impact on changemakers nationwide, witnessing the successes of our clients and the positive transformations they bring to their communities. I invite you to join us on this journey of empowerment and transformation. Explore our website at www.nonprofitenthusiast.com to discover more about the services we provide and partner with us to build stronger, more impactful nonprofit organizations. Together, we can shape a brighter future for our communities.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back at my journey, there are three qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have been particularly impactful:
1. Passion for Service and Community: My passion for making a positive impact in my community has been a driving force throughout my journey. This passion fueled my commitment to youth development and led me to create initiatives like L.O.V.E Our Youth. To those early in their journey, I advise you to identify the causes or areas that truly ignite your passion. When you’re genuinely invested in what you’re doing, it becomes easier to persevere through challenges and maintain your focus on making a difference.
2. Expertise in Program Development and Management: My proficiency in nonprofit mangement has allowed me to create effective processes and systems to scale nonprofits. To those starting out, I recommend honing your skills in areas that align with your goals. Seek out formal education, certifications, workshops, and real-world experiences to build a solid foundation.
3. Relationship Building and Collaboration:Establishing strong relationships with colleagues, partners, and the community has been pivotal in my journey. Collaboration amplifies efforts and resources, leading to more significant outcomes. My advice to newcomers is to foster genuine relationships, nurture partnerships, and cultivate a supportive network. Building trust and effective communication are key to forging successful collaborations that drive your mission forward.
For those early in their journey, I encourage you to remain open to learning and growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and adapt. Seek mentors and peers who can offer guidance and support. Be adaptable and willing to evolve your approach as circumstances change. Remember that every step, even if it seems small, contributes to your growth and impact over time.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth and improvement has been in the realm of time management. I took proactive steps to enhance my efficiency and prioritize tasks that align with my core values and objectives. This positive shift was catalyzed by reading the book “First Things First,” by Stephen Convey which provided valuable insights into effective time management strategies.
By implementing the principles outlined in the book, I was able to identify and prioritize tasks that truly matter to me, both personally and professionally. This newfound approach allowed me to streamline my daily routines, allocate time to meaningful projects, and minimize distractions. As a result, I experienced increased productivity, better work-life balance, and a greater sense of fulfillment.
Recognizing the importance of time as a finite resource, I have learned to allocate it more intentionally toward activities that align with my goals and values. This transformation has not only enhanced my effectiveness in various areas but has also given me a deeper appreciation for the power of deliberate time management.
For those seeking growth in this area, I highly recommend exploring time management resources and techniques that resonate with you. Whether it’s through books, online courses, or personalized strategies, the pursuit of effective time management can lead to profound improvements in both personal and professional aspects of life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nonprofitenthusiast.com
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