LaShawn Marshall, a trailblazer in her own right, embodies the epitome of multifaceted leadership and empowerment. Her journey is a tapestry woven with threads of community service, business acumen, advocacy, and the steadfast commitment to making a difference. Growing up inspired by her grandparents’ selfless dedication to community service, LaShawn’s foundation in servant leadership took root early on. Read on as she shares her story.
From my earliest memories, I was deeply influenced by my grandmother and grandfather’s unwavering dedication to our community. Their selfless acts of service, especially in establishing a food bank at Agape Christian Church, left an indelible mark on me. Witnessing my grandmother’s efforts to provide groceries to the homeless and her cooking hot meals for the underserved instilled in me the belief that our purpose on this Earth is to serve others. This early exposure formed the foundation of my belief in servant leadership – a belief I proudly carry to this day.
My motivation behind this non-profit initiative was to empower young girls and women, fostering self-love in the face of life’s challenges.
Over the past 13 years, my journey has been one of personal growth, fueled by mentorship in Ministry. Throughout this time, I obtained a CAC II certification, a Business Certification from RMMFI, became a Nationally Certified Peer Recovery Coach, and even had the honor of being crowned a Pageant Queen. I also took on the role of a Co-Host on the It’s Real Talk Radio Show. Additionally, I established the S&L New and Used Clothing & Accessories store, focusing on enhancing the appearance of underserved communities. Furthermore, my commitment to employing at-risk youth and providing them opportunities to build a better future has been a significant focus. I am honored to sit on four different boards in the State of Colorado – The Denver Foundation, Metro Denver Homeless Initiative (MDHI), Parker Stokes Mental Health Foundation, and The Northern Aurora Quality Of Life Movement.
One of the initiatives I take immense pride in is being a part of the inaugural Budget Delegates on the Two Million Dollar Participatory Budget Committee in Colorado. I played a crucial role in securing $425,000 to address the needs of our homeless population. The funds were allocated to expanding the construction of tiny houses and establishing additional Safe Outdoor Spaces through the Colorado Village Collaborative. I am currently actively involved in monitoring the implementation of these funded projects.
Witnessing my grandmother’s efforts to provide groceries to the homeless and her cooking hot meals for the underserved instilled in me the belief that our purpose on this Earth is to serve others.
Balancing my community leadership roles with other aspects of my life requires intentional strategies. Self-care is a priority, as I’ve come to recognize that being at my best is crucial for effective service to others. Maintaining a well-organized schedule using a calendar is key in managing my commitments. Additionally, having a capable and dedicated team has been instrumental in lightening the load and ensuring more impactful and sustainable community work.
Establishing the Loving You Transformation Center was a significant milestone for me. My motivation behind this non-profit initiative was to empower young girls and women, fostering self-love in the face of life’s challenges. One of the significant challenges I faced while setting up this non-profit was the realization that managing a non-profit significantly differs from running a for-profit business. Seeking guidance from a seasoned mentor in Colorado became pivotal in overcoming these challenges.
To ensure the sustainability and growth of the Loving You Transformation Center, I’ve held fast to a clear vision. I’ve built a team dedicated to our mission, engaged proactively with the community, and explored various funding sources. Our focus remains on the work itself, actively engaging with the community, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we support.
My experience as a pageant queen has significantly influenced my approach to leadership and community engagement. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, enhancing my confidence and deepening my commitment to community service. This platform has been instrumental in advocating for critical issues affecting underserved communities.
Balancing the roles of being a single mother and managing various leadership roles has its rewards. Witnessing the growth and success of my daughter and knowing that my guidance has contributed to her flourishing brings me immense pride. Family always remains my top priority, and I’ve structured my professional pursuits around ensuring her needs are met.
Navigating the intersection of being a woman in leadership, a single mother, and a business owner has had its challenges. One of the significant challenges has been being heard and respected as a woman, particularly when bringing valuable knowledge to the table. In these situations, I’ve had to stand firm in my convictions and approach the challenges with resilience.
My motivation and drive stem from my desire to leave a legacy for my daughter and advocate for equal treatment and opportunities for all individuals in our country. Meeting MC Hammer during a low point in my life was a turning point, inspiring me to embark on my own journey of transformation and service.
It’s been a journey of self-discovery, enhancing my confidence and deepening my commitment to community service.
Looking ahead, my goals involve establishing an Empowerment Center for Women and Young Girls in underserved and homeless communities. Completing my autobiography, advocating for policy changes, and furthering my education are among my future aspirations.
My journey, with its varied experiences, has taught me the importance of standing by my vision, fostering a dependable team, continuous learning, and resilience. Personal experiences have instilled in me the understanding that things aren’t always what they seem on the surface.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance involves dedicating time for relaxation, engaging in activities that bring peace, maintaining an open mindset, and relying on a trustworthy team. Embracing the concept of lifelong learning is critical for personal development and a balanced life.
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