Keeta’s Place Inc.

1LT Lakeeta F. Williams, LMSW, established Keeta’s Place Inc. to fulfill her lifelong purpose—to serve as a resource and guiding force for youth on their journey through life. With over 15 years of mentorship, counseling, and advocacy, she has opened her home and heart to countless young individuals, providing not only guidance but also food, shelter, and emotional support when needed. She has consistently created safe, nurturing environments where youth can learn, grow, and thrive.

A Foundation of Trust & Connection

Lakeeta’s greatest strengths lie in her ability to quickly build trust and rapport, create spaces where people feel safe to share, and actively listen with warmth and acceptance. Her deep commitment to social work led her to earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Behavioral Science from National Louis University. She pursued these studies with a clear mission—to develop the skills and expertise necessary to empower youth and support service members in need.

Relating to the Communities She Serves

Building trust and credibility with military dependents and youth from low-income and underserved communities can be a challenge. However, as someone who comes from these very communities, Lakeeta understands their struggles firsthand. This personal connection enables her to relate to young people on a level that others may not, fostering deep trust and meaningful relationships while maintaining professionalism and clear boundaries.

Mentorship, Leadership & Advocacy

Lakeeta’s experience spans multiple areas of mentorship, coaching, and advocacy:
✔ Life Coach & Mentor for various organizations, guiding youth toward success.
✔ Cheerleading Coach & Mentor for eight years, supporting 25 young women in the Chicago-land area in self-esteem, emotional resilience, relationship-building, and goal-setting.
✔ Paraprofessional in Chicago Public Schools, mentoring students and training incoming paraprofessionals to work compassionately with special needs students, fostering social-emotional growth.
✔ Liaison between parents and students, ensuring families are informed and engaged in their children’s development.

Military Service & Mental Health Advocacy

Lakeeta also serves as a Commissioned Officer in the Army National Guard as a Behavioral Health Officer, where she has played a key role in enhancing awareness of mental health resources for service members. Previously, as a Non-Commissioned Officer, she volunteered as her unit’s Assistant Suicide Prevention NCO, working to destigmatize mental health conversations and engage with soldiers at all levels. Her efforts have directly contributed to reducing substance abuse and suicide rates among service members by fostering open dialogue and proactive support systems.

A Legacy of Impact

Through Keeta’s Place Inc., Lakeeta continues to lead with passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, service, and mentorship, proving that when given the right support and guidance, every young person has the potential to succeed.