Tia Humphries
Topic: How Lisa Williams is changing the lives of girls in Orlando through her mentoring organization, L.A.N.E.S.
Title: Share, Show, Know, & Grow!
Background Info:
L.A.N.E.S. is a non-profit youth mentoring organization located in Orlando, Florida. Ms. Lisa Williams created the organization in 2004 after losing her mother, who was an educator. Ms. Lisa saw need in the community and set out to fulfill that need in the best way she knew how. The program focuses on teenage girls and assist them in developing leadership skills, strengthening their character, and opening their eyes to opportunities beyond the city of Orlando. The acronym L.A.N.E.S. stands for loving, assisting, nurturing, educating, and supporting teenage girls. The mission of the organization is to shape these young ladies to powerful productive young women that are ready to take on life whether it be in school or the workplace. L.A.N.E.S. currently serves middle and high school girls weekly by hosting workshops and sessions that helps fulfill the organization’s purpose. Ms. Lisa also hosts an annual spring break trip and scholarship luncheon to help expose the girls to higher education opportunities and afford them.
Why is this story relevant?
In Orlando, African American girls are placed in society constructs to hinder their performance and imagination for their life beyond the city’s boundaries. They are often expected to remain home, look after their siblings, and remain in the city until they grow old. However, Ms. Lisa refuses to allow girls to settle for this reality and is dedicated to exposing them to the many benefits life has to offer. Whether that be therapy, lunch money, or a shoulder to lean on, Ms. Lisa is always there. For fifteen years, she has given her all to every girl in the program and is the reason why most Alumnae have gone off to accomplish so many great things, including myself. Unfortunately, Ms. Lisa does not have any children of her own, but she has been a mother to hundreds of girls over the years. LANES has been featured in the Orlando Sentinel newspaper, featured in adds for the Orange County school board, and continues to be safe space in the Orlando Community. Without LANES and Ms. Lisa this need would be unfulfilled.
Potential Interviews:
Ms. Lisa Williams
Program Director and Founder
Nakima Brooks
LANES Alumna
Current member of LANES
Supporting Elements:
· B-roll past LANES events and community service
· Pictures of LANES luncheon, fashion show, and spring break trips
· Statistics surrounding mentoring organizations
Research Sources:
