Lala is such a doll and an absolute pleasure to work with! She came to one of the senior centers I’m a part of in DC, and kept us engaged and having fun. We recently had a sip and paint event, and she even hosted a Sadie Hawkins dance for us. What I loved most is that she was hands-on the entire time—most owners don’t put in the effort, but Lala was there, humble, and fully present. I didn’t even realize she was the founder! Thank you, Lala, and Community Grapevines, for being such a blessing to the community. Keep up the amazing work!

I’m incredibly grateful to Lakeeta and Community Grapevines for their support when I was getting out of prison. Lakeeta was patient, understanding, and really took the time to help me with mock interviews, boosting my confidence and helping me land my current job. Community Grapevines isn’t just about job training—they’re genuinely dedicated to empowering and supporting the community. Thanks to their program, I was able to turn my life around. I can’t thank Lakeeta and the team enough for their guidance and belief in me. They’ve truly changed my life.

I can’t thank Community Grapevines enough for their incredible mentoring program. The support I received has been truly life-changing. From day one, my mentor was not only professional but also genuinely caring, offering guidance that went beyond just career advice. They took the time to understand my goals and challenges and helped me create a clear path forward. What stands out most is the amazing staff at Community Grapevines. It’s clear that they are doing the work they love, and it’s not just about a paycheck for them. Their dedication and passion for helping others is evident in everything they do. They go above and beyond to build real, meaningful relationships, and that’s what makes this program so special. If you’re looking for a mentoring program where the staff truly cares about your growth and success, I highly recommend Community Grapevines. They’re making a real difference in the community, and I’m so grateful for their support!

Ms. Burnette is truly a jewel. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her in the Division of State Initiative program, where we’ve been able to directly impact the lives of DC Returning Citizens. Watching her interact with these individuals—many of whom are adjusting to life after incarceration—has been an inspiration. Ms. Burnette embodies the true meaning of empathy. She always goes above and beyond to help our clients, particularly those who are struggling to build new skills, improve their computer literacy, and prepare for meaningful employment. She doesn’t just talk the talk—she walks the walk, offering hands-on support with patience and dedication. Her relentless drive to support these citizens, her willingness to go the extra mile, and her genuine care for their well-being make her a true asset to the community. It’s not just about the work she does—it’s about the heart and soul she puts into every interaction. I’ve seen firsthand how she makes a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it the most. Ms. Burnette is a true example of what it means to make a positive impact, and I am incredibly grateful to have worked beside her