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Board of Directors
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Meet our Founder

Marissa C. McDonald, M.S.
“Hello, I'm Marissa McDonald, the founder of L.I.T.E. (Live Intentionally Transformed Everyday). Have you ever felt like your voice was lost, buried beneath the weight of unspoken words? I have. From a young age, I found myself standing up for others, advocating on their behalf. But while I readily lent my voice to those around me, I struggled to find and use my own. That struggle, that journey, is what led to the birth of L.I.T.E.
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At its core, L.I.T.E. is more than just an organization, it’s a reflection of my personal journey and the journeys of so many others searching for their worth. It’s a space where your story unfolds, where your struggles transform into strengths, and where your journey becomes a testament to your resilience.
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My passion, my calling, is to guide you on that same journey of self-discovery, to help you recognize the inherent value, just as I learned to. I believe everyone deserves to be heard, and their voice deserves to be celebrated.”
Marissa was fortunate enough to be able to overcome the hurdles that held her back, and now she intends to empower others to do the same. Despite her relatively shorter tenure in the nonprofit landscape, her enthusiasm, fresh perspective, determination, along with her love for people have helped lay the foundation for L.I.T.E.’s mission.
No one who knows Marissa in real life was surprised by her decision to start on this non- profit journey; because that is who she is. This non-profit is an extension of something she has done her entire life. She has spoken life into those around her as early as kindergarten. She has always been willing to walk with people on their journey of healing and help in any way she was able.
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Her ability to listen and understand others has always been a part of who she is, which is what led her to study psychology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Howard University and her Master of Science in Forensic Psychology from Arizona State University. Her background in Psychology, combined with her personal experiences, has allowed her to craft a plan that blends faith-based principles and psychological insights.
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At L.I.T.E. our goal is to create a supportive environment designed to help individuals confidently articulate their thoughts, embrace their value, and step into the power of their own voice. Whether you're just beginning to explore your voice or seeking to reclaim it, at L.I.T.E., we’re here to walk alongside you.
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