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Empowering People & Changing Lives
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(202) 656-6882
Benefits of Working With Community Grapevines
- Leadership & Professional Development
- Mission-Driven & Supportive Team
- Meaningful Community Impact
Meet Our Founder
Lakeeta ''Lala'' Burnette
Lakeeta “Lala” Burnette didn’t start Community Grapevines from a boardroom. She built it from the ground up, shaped by real experience, real relationships, and a real understanding of what it means to need support and not find it.
Her work is rooted in meeting people where they are, not where systems expect them to be. From returning citizens rebuilding their lives to young people searching for direction, seniors seeking connection, and families navigating impossible transitions, Lala has shown up consistently with compassion, structure, and purpose.
Under her leadership, Community Grapevines has grown into a trusted community anchor, delivering measurable impact with integrity, accountability, and care. She doesn’t just lead programs. She leads people.
Board of Directors & Organizational Leadership
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lakeeta "Lala" Burnette
Aaron Charles
Charmaine Young
Elton Norman, Esq.
Joshua Boyd
Dr. Jamel Reed
STAFF
Anita King
Ricardo Miles
Mirra Peterson
Kesha Faison
Rachel Luckenbaugh
Ny'Azja Burnette
Focused initiatives addressing community wellness, stability, and growth.
Returning Citizens Support
- Individualized reentry planning and case support.
- Life skills, workforce readiness, and resource navigation
- Mentorship and community-based support services
Youth Programming with Schools
- In-school and after-school enrichment programming
- Academic support and literacy-focused activities
- Social-emotional learning and positive youth development
Senior Programming
Our senior programs reduce isolation and promote healthy aging by strengthening community connection. Through consistent, accessible activities, we support seniors’ physical, emotional, and social well-being while fostering belonging and engagement.
- Social engagement and community-based activities
- Wellness-focused programming for healthy aging
- Safe spaces that promote connection and belonging
Youth Success & Resilience Services
- Mentorship, guidance, and academic encouragement
- Social-emotional learning and life skills development
- Community-based activities that promote confidence and resilience
Trade Assistance Programs
- Hands-on skills training and workforce readiness
- Support with certifications, tools, and trade pathways
- Career exploration and income-generating opportunities
Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship
- Financial education, budgeting, and credit-building support
- Entrepreneurship training and business development guidance
- Access to resources that promote financial stability and growth
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a donation?
Making a donation is easy. Visit our Campaigns page to choose the program or initiative you’d like to support. Select your campaign, choose an amount, and complete your donation securely online. Your contribution goes directly toward the program you select.
How can I volunteer or get involved?
We welcome volunteers, community partners, and supporters. Visit our Volunteer or Get Involved page to learn more about current opportunities.
Is this a non profit organization?
Yes. Community Grapevines is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All donations are tax-deductible and directly support Community Grapevines’ programs and services.
Do you partner with businesses or organizations?
Yes. We collaborate with businesses, schools, and community partners to support our programs and community initiatives.
How are donations used?
Donations support our community-based programs, including youth mentorship, senior engagement, reentry support, and wellness initiatives.