Founder/CEO
Lakeeta “LaLa” Burnette exemplifies a life of resilience, passion, and selfless service. Born in Washington, D.C., LaLa’s journey is marked by tragedy and strength. She lost her mother to domestic violence at a young age, and her father was incarcerated for most of her childhood. At 14, she left home and faced life’s challenges with determination, overcoming juvenile detention and time as a ward of the state. At 18, she became a single mother when her child’s father was incarcerated six months after the birth of their daughter.
LaLa’s journey became even more personal when her son suffered a vaccine injury that resulted in ongoing health challenges, including seizures. This life-changing experience led her to step away from traditional employment and pursue her passion and purpose. Knowing that her son’s needs require her constant presence and flexibility, LaLa promised to dedicate her life to making an impact and helping others.
A certified foster parent and mentor, LaLa’s passion for helping others shines through. Known for her radiant smile and magnetic personality, she joyfully supports at-risk youth, returning citizens, and seniors. Her lived experiences with trauma, substance abuse, and adversity fuel her unique understanding of those she serves. As LaLa says, “Degrees and credentials matter, but those who have lived these struggles bring a powerful perspective.”
In 2023, LaLa established Community Grapevines, Inc. to honor her late father. This 501(c)(3) organization empowers vulnerable communities, champions family reunification, and provides essential support to incarcerated individuals. Partnering with local nonprofits, school districts, and senior facilities, LaLa develops impactful programs that foster growth and opportunity. Through mentoring, re-entry initiatives, alternative education, and other vital services, the organization equips individuals with the resources and support needed to thrive.
Chief Program Officer
Ricardo Miles, a D.C. native, is the Chief Program Officer at Community Grapevines Inc. and a visionary leader with over 20 years of experience in community empowerment, youth development, and violence prevention. As the Founder of Driven Concepts & Solutions, LLC, he specializes in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and restorative practices that foster emotional resilience and holistic growth.
Ricardo currently leads program design and impact strategy at Community Grapevines while also training Violence Interrupters through DC Peace Academy and supporting youth development initiatives across the city. His dynamic background includes leadership roles with ONSE, Life Deeds, and more. A recipient of the Linda Harllee Harper Award and a certified Restorative Justice Specialist, Ricardo continues to shape safer, stronger communities through inclusive, trauma-informed approaches.
Director of Program Operations
A lifelong Washingtonian and seasoned community activist, Rahim Jenkins has made significant contributions both locally and nationally through his distinguished career as a Youth Advocate and Re-Entry Facilitator. Rahim’s dedication to uplifting and educating disadvantaged minority youth has made him a pioneer in his field, known for creating innovative programs that address the needs of vulnerable communities with empathy and strength.
Rahim has served as a Youth Policy Advisor to the Mayor and Director of the District of Columbia Department of Corrections (DOC), where he oversaw a range of initiatives impacting youth in custody. In this role, he developed a multi-tiered behavior management program and successfully partnered with D.C. Public Schools to provide on-site educational support for incarcerated youth. His philosophy centers on empowering youth to overcome the challenges of inner-city violence, creating pathways to education, rehabilitation, and constructive community engagement.
Through each position he’s held—from Correctional Officer and Correctional Counselor to Public Affairs Specialist and Community Liaison Officer—Rahim has continued to build a legacy of compassion, rehabilitation, and restorative justice.
Chief Financial Officer
Anita King is a highly accomplished and visionary leader in business and finance, with over 20 years of experience driving sustainable growth, strategic transformation, and lasting profitability. Known for her analytical rigor and forward-thinking leadership, Anita has built a dynamic career that spans multinational corporations, mission-driven nonprofits, and innovative start-ups—including her own entrepreneurial ventures. Her expertise lies in aligning financial strategy with organizational goals, building high-performing teams, and unlocking new pathways to impact and value.
Anita also brings a passion for mentorship, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling with her family, and staying curious through reading and lifelong learning.
Director of Innovation & Strategy
Kesha Faison serves as the Director of Innovation and Strategy at Community Grapevines Inc., bringing a dynamic background in Human Resources and entrepreneurship. With years of experience navigating corporate spaces and building businesses, she specializes in turning ideas into actionable plans that uplift people and communities.
At Community Grapevines, Kesha leads with vision and purpose—developing strategies that drive impact, build sustainability, and foster innovation across all programs. Her passion for people and systems change makes her a powerful force in creating new pathways to equity, healing, and opportunity.
Director of Development
Sophia is the Director of Development at Community Grapevines Inc. and the founder of SoPHIT4you Wellness. A former competitive athlete and Certified Personal Trainer, her path shifted from performance-based fitness to holistic wellness after discovering the transformative power of yoga, mindfulness, and intentional rest.
At Community Grapevines, Sophia blends her background in Human Resources, wellness, and program design to support community-centered initiatives. She creates safe, restorative spaces for youth, seniors, and returning citizens—guiding them through yoga, stretch therapy, and mindful practices that promote emotional regulation and stress relief. Her mission is to help people not just perform wellness but truly embody it.
Director of Re-Entry
Dr. Jamel F. Reed is the Director of Reentry at Community Grapevines Inc., where he brings a powerful blend of ministry, education, and community advocacy. He is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Ruach City of Refuge (Atlanta, GA) and Abyssinia City of Favor (Washington, DC), and the owner of a transitional housing program for men—giving him a deeply personal and professional understanding of reentry and healing.
Dr. Reed holds an Associate of Business Administration, a B.A. in Sociology, two master’s degrees in education and educational leadership, and a Doctorate in Ministry. He currently teaches 4th grade Math and Science in Prince George’s County Public Schools and is dedicated to guiding both youth and adults toward purpose, stability, and transformation.
Director of Wellness & Community Health
Director of Wellness and Community Health at Community Grapevines Inc. With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, program management, and contracting, she brings a deep understanding of community needs and effective service delivery.
Mira leads wellness initiatives that promote holistic health and empowerment for diverse populations. Her expertise in running successful programs ensures that Community Grapevines provides impactful, accessible, and sustainable health resources to the communities it serves.
Director of Community Relations & Communications
Joshua Boyd is the Director of Community Relations and Communications at Community Grapevines Inc. With a background in marketing and entrepreneurship, he brings a creative and strategic approach to outreach, branding, and community engagement.
Joshua leads efforts to amplify the organization’s mission through storytelling, partnerships, and clear communication. He manages all public relations and keeps Community Grapevines’ social media platforms active and up to date—ensuring the community stays informed, inspired, and connected. His passion for people and purposeful messaging makes him a vital link between the organization and those it serves.
Secretary/Treasurer
Charmaine Young serves as the Secretary & Treasurer of Community Grapevines, Inc., brings extensive leadership experience in both the medical and beauty industries. Throughout her life, she has faced numerous challenges, yet she has emerged stronger and more resilient. Her journey began in childhood, where she found a deep connection to spirituality through her involvement in the church, serving as a spiritual dancer. This experience instilled in her a sense of purpose and dedication from a young age.
Before joining Community Grapevines, Charmaine managed a salon for the CEO, and launched a free salon-and-spa programs for families in shelters. Her leadership experience, combined with her unwavering dedication to uplifting others, continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves.
In 2008, Charmaine became a mother to a beautiful baby girl, an experience that filled her life with joy and responsibility. This period taught her the importance of perseverance and advocacy in the face of adversity. As she gained control of her circumstances, she felt inspired to pursue her dreams.
In 2016, Charmaine made a conscious decision to dedicate her skills and passion to helping less fortunate youth in her community. Recognizing a need for confidence-building in young individuals who may not have realized their worth, she began creating opportunities for them to express themselves and find their inner beauty, providing services that would uplift their spirits and enhance their self-image.
As she continues on this path, Charmaine’s desire to serve and give back to the community remains strong. She is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those around her, empowering any generation to embrace their unique beauty and confidence.
At Community Grapevines, we believe in the power of connection, support, and growth. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, become a mentor, or simply get involved, we invite you to be a part of our mission to strengthen and uplift our community. By joining us, you’ll have the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of individuals navigating life transitions. We are always looking for passionate, dedicated people who want to contribute their skills and make a lasting difference. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community. Join us today and help spread the power of positive change!
Community Grapevines, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. EIN: 99-0422992 Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
