LaSaundra Hewitt serves as the Founder and Executive Director of iamALIVE, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and educating youth affected by bullying and related issues. As the Executive Director, she ensures that all operations align with the organization’s mission. With a commitment spanning over 10 years, LaSaundra has devoted herself to educating and empowering both youth and adults about the effects of bullying. In addition to her role, she is an accomplished author and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems.

LaSaundra’s impact extends beyond the organization as she has motivated and inspired countless young minds at various schools across Metro Atlanta, sharing her personal story of triumph over bullying. Her outstanding contributions have earned her numerous accolades and honors, recognizing her exceptional work in the community. As an overcomer of bullying, rejection, and low self-esteem, LaSaundra possesses a unique understanding of the pain experienced by others. Her mission is to empower individuals to transition from a place of pain to a place of triumph and restoration. She achieves this through her influential book, engaging webinars, seminars, and an annual anti-bullying conference.

LaSaundra’s dedication and multifaceted approach make her a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those affected by bullying. Through her transformative initiatives, she strives to create a society where every individual can thrive without fear and emerge stronger from adversity.

Hello, my name is Tori Tucker, and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner strength. I am passionate about fostering resilience, promoting mental wellness, and empowering people to cultivate self-awareness, practical coping skills, and a lasting sense of hope and balance.

I am honored to contribute my expertise to iamALIVE’s mission by providing thoughtful secretarial support to ensure the organization runs smoothly and efficiently, while helping to nurture a compassionate, supportive, and connected community. I believe that every act of care—big or small—has the power to inspire hope, strengthen resilience, and transform lives.

Steven D. Maxwell serves as an Advisory Board Member for iamALIVE. Steven D. Maxwell works in the field of parks and recreation, ensuring that leisure opportunities are provided in the best interest of the community he serves. It is his responsibility to work closely with members of the community and elected officials, taking their feedback into consideration to benefit all stakeholders.

Since 2009, Steven has embarked on a successful career journey, holding positions as a supervisor, coordinator, and manager across multiple agencies in the recreation field. In 2013, he made history as the first African American pool manager for the city of Jacksonville, enhancing the patron experience by integrating new amenities to the facility. Steven’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Leadership from Jacksonville State University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy University. He has also obtained multiple certifications, including Certified Youth Sports Administrator and Certified Pool Operator.

One of Steven’s significant accomplishments in Clayton County was securing external funds through grant opportunities. As a member of the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA), he serves as District 4’s Committee Representative for Public Policy. In this role, Steven strives to establish transparency with policymakers and advocates for the development and legislative agenda of all agencies. He believes in the power of public policy and aims to bring positive change to the community.

Steven’s dedication to his profession is evident through his participation in national programs such as Director’s School and the Park Champions Initiative, facilitated by the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA). He is an advocate for continued education and has worked alongside representatives from Troy University to expand opportunities for GRPA members to pursue their academic accomplishments. Through this partnership, members can now benefit from tuition discounts when attending Troy University to obtain their master’s or undergraduate degree.

As an innovative leader with a passion for community development, Steven strives for optimal success and aims to make a positive impact on others. He believes in the value of inspiring change and constantly seeks ways to be of value to those he leads.

Ciara Dunn is a dedicated public servant, youth advocate, and community leader committed to removing barriers and expanding opportunities for young people. She currently serves as the Administrator for the Clayton County Office of Youth Services, where she leads initiatives focused on youth empowerment, mentorship, workforce readiness, and community engagement. Originally from Augusta, Georgia, Ciara leads with both heart and strategy, grounded in the values shaped by her family, faith, and her role as a mother to a loving and adventurous son who inspires her daily. 

Ciara earned both her Bachelor of Science in Health and Fitness Management, with a minor in Business Administration, and her Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources from Clayton State University. Her academic and professional background equips her to design impactful programs, lead diverse teams, and manage youth-centered initiatives with purpose and effectiveness. 

Throughout her career, Ciara has remained deeply committed to mentoring and investing in youth. She believes that consistent support, positive role models, safe spaces, and access to opportunity are essential to shaping the next generation of leaders. Her work reflects a strong dedication to addressing the systemic and social challenges that create barriers for young people, while ensuring environments where they can grow, learn, and thrive both personally and professionally. 

Beyond her role with the Office of Youth Services, Ciara serves on the Clayton County Public Schools CTAE Advisory Board Council and the Atlanta Regional Commission WorkSource Georgia NextGen Youth Committee, where she contributes to workforce development and career readiness initiatives across the region. She is also a member of the Leadership Clayton Class of 2025, further strengthening her commitment to collaborative leadership and community impact. 

Ciara previously served as an Assistant Cheer Coach at Chapel Hill Middle School in DeKalb County and made history by creating Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity’s first youth summer camp, expanding youth engagement through service and leadership. 

As a newly appointed Advisory Board member for the IamAlive Foundation, Ciara is honored to lend her voice, experience, and leadership in support of efforts that promote kindness, accountability, and safe, inclusive environments where all young people can thrive. 

Outside of her professional and community service roles, Ciara values family time, enjoys discovering great food, shopping, and building meaningful connections with others. She remains a compassionate listener, a helping hand, and a steadfast supporter of the young people and communities she serves.