L&J Empowerment's mission is to provide opportunities that might not otherwise exist for underserved communities in the areas of mental health, workforce development, and racial justice. We exist to break down barriers to academic success, economic prosperity, and mental wellness for under-resourced populations across the country and world. We passionately support the communities we serve through a diverse team of staff and partners, innovative practices, and cutting-edge research.
L&J Empowerment is a community-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to equipping individuals and families with the tools, resources, and support needed to live healthy, stable, and empowered lives. Founded in 2016 by Lorenzo Lewis, L&J Empowerment was created out of a commitment to disrupting generational trauma experienced by African American families in the South as a result of the legacy of slavery and ongoing systemic inequities. Our mission is to confront systemic oppression by equipping 21st-century leaders from marginalized communities of color with the skills, support, and pathways they need to thrive.
The Confess Project of America (TCPA) is a national program advancing mental health advocacy in marginalized communities. Our groundbreaking Beyond the Shop program, evaluated by Harvard University, has reached over 6 million people across 35+ states and 65+ cities. We train frontline workers, barbers, grooming professionals, and community leaders to serve as mental health advocates, equipping them with tools to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and foster healing. Through our Advocate Training and Train-the-Trainer models, certified advocates learn active listening, positive communication, validation skills, and how to recognize signs of mental health challenges; while also addressing barriers to care and access to culturally responsive support.