We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lashawntay Howard. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lashawntay below.

Hi Lashawntay, thanks for joining us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

At The LTHYC, we are dedicated to empowering and uplifting underserved communities in Miami, specifically focusing on Brownsville and Liberty City. As someone who grew up and attended school in Liberty City, I have a deep, personal connection to the people and the struggles they face. These neighborhoods have long been impacted by high crime rates, poverty, and the devastating effects of drug-related violence. Too often, children in these areas witness their parents fall victim to the streets, which creates a cycle of hardship that can be difficult to break.
Recognizing the need for change, The LTHYC was founded with a mission to support and mentor the youth in these communities. We provide educational programs, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities aimed at fostering personal growth, leadership, and resilience. Our goal is to equip young people with the tools, resources, and guidance they need to overcome their circumstances and pursue brighter futures.
What sets The LTHYC apart is our unwavering commitment to serving the very community that shaped us. We understand the challenges firsthand, and that personal experience allows us to connect with and relate to the youth we serve in a meaningful way. It’s more than just providing services-it’s about being a beacon of hope and showing them that their current environment doesn’t define their potential.
We are most proud of the impact we’ve made by creating a safe space where young people feel seen, valued, and inspired to dream beyond their surroundings.
Seeing them achieve academic success, gain confidence, and break free from generational cycles of struggle is what drives us forward.

Lashawntay, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

In 2012, I founded The LTHYC, creating a prevention and diversion program for system-involved youth in Miami-Dade’s underserved communities. Despite early challenges, I remained focused, committed, and consistent, gradually expanding from working with youth in outdoor suspension programs in Miami-Dade schools to securing locations at the Belafonte Tacolcy Center and eventually opening a second location in Brownsville.
Brownsville and Liberty City are often overlooked, despite the rich culture and potential that exists within them. The lack of access to quality education, mentorship, and positive role models has made it difficult for many youth to envision a future beyond their current reality. The LTHYC bridges this gap by providing support systems that foster growth, self-belief, and opportunity.

I am deeply passionate about the work I do in my community. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be my own boss—working a job was never my end goal. After earning my Associate of Science degree in Paralegal Studies and my Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, I interned at the Department of Juvenile Justice. That experience inspired me to focus my career on youth advocacy.

One story that highlights our impact involves a young man from Liberty City who, like many, was surrounded by violence and instability. Through our mentorship program, he found structure and guidance, eventually earning a scholarship to college. His journey is a testament to why our work matters-because when you invest in today’s youth, you empower tomorrow’s leaders.

Each year, we host three major community events:
• Teen Summits: Addressing community issues and promoting mental health awareness.
Back-to-School Event:
Providing essential school supplies to families in need.
• Christmas Drive:
Distributing toys and gift cards to families during the holidays.
At The LTHYC, we are committed to being a beacon of hope, providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities that inspire growth and break generational cycles. Our vision is to continue expanding our reach, empowering more youth to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
We’ve also built strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations to further our mission and maximize our impact.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Starting The LTHYC was far from easy. In the early days, I faced significant challenges, including limited funding, lack of resources, and the struggle to gain trust and credibility in the community. Despite the obstacles, I remained determined. I started by working with youth in outdoor suspension programs within Miami-Dade schools. With consistency and commitment, I expanded to a physical location at the Belafonte Tacolcy Center and eventually opened a second location in Brownsville.

One of the most defining moments of resilience came when I organized our first major community event with very few resources. Although it was a struggle to secure donations and support, I pressed forward, leveraging local partnerships and my personal network. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and the gratitude from families reminded me why I started.

Today, with multiple locations, annual events, and growing community partnerships, I am proud of how The LTHYC has flourished. The journey hasn’t been easy, but my unwavering dedication to the youth has allowed the organization to grow into a beacon of hope and empowerment.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

I built The LTHYC from the ground up—starting by filling every role myself before growing into a team of seven. That hands-on experience taught me the value of leading by example. I believe that effective team management requires clear communication, consistency, and genuine appreciation.

To maintain high morale, I prioritize creating a positive work environment by fostering transparency and encouraging collaboration. I regularly recognize and celebrate the team’s contributions, ensuring they feel valued and motivated. Investing in their growth through mentorship and professional development is also key.

Additionally, I emphasize flexibility and empathy. Understanding that everyone has personal challenges allows me to lead with compassion, which strengthens trust and commitment. My goal is to create a team culture where everyone feels empowered, supported, and inspired to contribute their best.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lthyoc.org
• Instagram: Lthyoc
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/lthyoc