Who We Are
Lockhart Cares Inc. is a community‑based nonprofit organization founded in 2023 with a mission to uplift youth and adults—both with and without disabilities—by removing barriers to stability, employment, and personal growth. We serve Broward, Miami‑Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach Counties with programs that build confidence, strengthen skills, and expand access to meaningful opportunities.
Our work is rooted in compassion, inclusion, and the belief that every person deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Our Leadership
Shaena Wan Lockhart, M. Ed – Founder & Executive Director
Shaena Wan Lockhart is the Founder and Executive Director of Lockhart Cares Inc., bringing more than 15 years of experience as a Social Worker and Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Specialist. She holds a Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed) with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders/Special Education, equipping her with deep expertise in supporting youth and adults with disabilities, behavioral challenges, and complex learning needs.
Shaena currently serves within Broward County Public Schools, where she provides specialized support to students with diverse abilities and barriers to academic success. Her background in social work, crisis intervention, and family support directly informs the compassionate, trauma‑informed approach that defines Lockhart Cares’ programs.
As Executive Director, Shaena oversees organizational strategy, program development, and the implementation of the Street Outreach Program (SOP). Her leadership ensures that vulnerable youth—especially those experiencing homelessness, instability, or exploitation risk—receive the safety, advocacy, and opportunities they deserve.
Lacardo Lockhart – Co‑Founder & Director of Operations
Lacardo Lockhart serves as Co‑Founder and Director of Operations for Lockhart Cares Inc., where he brings strong leadership, logistical expertise, and a commitment to community empowerment. He oversees daily operations, program coordination, and the implementation of outreach activities across South Florida.
Lacardo plays a key role in supporting the Street Outreach Program (SOP), ensuring that youth receive consistent, reliable, and compassionate engagement. His hands‑on approach and dedication to service help create safe, structured environments where youth and families can thrive.
Shonta Howard is a Master of Social Work (MSW) degreed professional with extensive experience serving at‑risk youth, families, and vulnerable populations. As Program Director of Youth & Outreach Services, she leads Lockhart Cares’ youth programs and the Street Outreach Program (SOP) with expertise in trauma‑informed care, crisis intervention, and community advocacy.
Shonta currently works within Broward County Public Schools, where she provides social‑emotional support, resource coordination, and intervention services to students facing academic, behavioral, and personal challenges. Her background includes case management, youth development, and working with individuals experiencing homelessness, exploitation risk, or family instability.
Her leadership ensures that every young person who connects with Lockhart Cares receives compassionate support, access to essential resources, and a pathway toward safety, stability, and long‑term success.
Shonta Howard, MSW – Program Director, Youth & Outreach Services
What We Do
Lockhart Cares provides a continuum of support designed to meet individuals where they are and guide them toward safety, independence, and long‑term success. Our services include:
Youth & Family Programs
We offer structured programs that promote learning, leadership, and personal development, including:
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Summer camps
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Educational workshops
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Life‑skills training
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Community engagement activities
These programs help young people build confidence, develop healthy relationships, and discover their strengths.
Employment & Skills Development
Lockhart Cares supports youth and adults facing employment barriers by providing:
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Job readiness training
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Soft‑skills development
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Career exploration
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Supportive services that reduce obstacles to work
We help individuals gain the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment.
Youth Empowerment & Outreach
Our Youth Empowerment & Outreach Initiative reaches runaway, homeless, and at‑risk youth ages 12–24 throughout Broward County. Through mobile outreach, crisis intervention, and resource navigation, we provide:
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Basic needs support, including food, hygiene items, clothing, and transportation
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Safety planning to reduce immediate risk and stabilize unsafe situations
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Crisis response for youth experiencing homelessness, family conflict, or emotional distress
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Referrals to shelter, counseling, and health services to ensure access to safe housing and essential care
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Mentoring and follow‑up support to help youth stay connected, build skills, and move toward long‑term stability
This comprehensive approach ensures vulnerable youth have access to safety, stability, and pathways to opportunity.
Who We Serve
We proudly serve:
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Youth ages 12–24
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Adults with disabilities seeking employment support
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Youth with disabilities seeking employability skills
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Youth experiencing homelessness or instability
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Families facing economic hardship
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Communities in need of accessible, inclusive support
Our programs are open to people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.
Join Us
Whether you’re a community member, partner organization, volunteer, or donor, you play a vital role in helping us expand our impact.
Together, we can create safer communities, stronger families, and brighter futures for youth and adults across South Florida.