Meet LaWanda Jones

---

LaWanda Jones, MSW, QDDP, is a co-founder and co-owner of S.H.I.F.T. Wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Norfolk State University (NSU) in 2006, graduating Cum Laude. She later returned to NSU to complete her Master of Social Work (MSW) with a focus on military social work, graduating in 2020. With over 15 years of experience in client services and case management, LaWanda began her career with Newport News Parks & Recreation, working with children with disabilities. She then moved on to serve at-risk youth as an Intensive In-Home Counselor, a role she truly enjoyed.

LaWanda’s career progressed at the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board, where she spent seven years as an Adult Support Coordinator before being promoted to Child & Adolescent DD Clinical Supervisor. During her time in supervision, she decided to step down to focus on her education while mentoring with the agency. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for building and fostering relationships with at-risk youth. After completing her MSW, she was promoted to Child & Adolescent Clinical Mental Health Supervisor within the Youth & Family Services Division. LaWanda transitioned from HNNCSB in late 2022, but her dedication to supporting youth remains strong.

Her expertise includes public benefits, housing support, and Medicaid-funded programs for individuals with mental health (MH), developmental disabilities (DD), and other disabilities. Recognizing a need for a Therapeutic Mentoring program in her community, she partnered with two classmates to make a meaningful impact. LaWanda has also been a Board Member of Pink Collar Cares, LLC since 2021 and has collaborated with her mentor on various projects for Hired 2 Help, LLC, as well as other non-profit organizations. Additionally, she volunteers on the City of Newport News Public School Committee Advisory Board.