founder and executive director



Leslie Lacy is the Founder and Executive Director of Fostering Hope Louisiana. She established the nonprofit organization in 2020 to address the mental health needs of children in foster care. Leslie’s legal experience includes representing parents and children in Child in Need of Care cases (CINC) in Louisiana. She enhanced her advocacy for children by obtaining certifications in family and divorce mediation, juvenile mediation, and the National Association of Counsel for Children’s Child Welfare Law Specialist certification. Leslie has substantial experience training Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and achieved several clients’ permanency determination from the Supreme Court of Louisiana.


Education and Certifications


NACC Child Welfare Law Specialist

Juvenile Mediation

Family and Divorce Mediation

Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Civil Law, Louisiana State University

Washington Semester Program, American University 

Bachelor of Arts, International Affairs, Lafayette College

The Governor’s Academy


Professional Affiliations


Member, Louisiana Alliance

Member, National Association of Counsel for Children

Member, Louisiana State Bar Association


Civic Involvement


Board of Trustees, The Governor’s Academy

Educator, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) 

Fellow, Louisiana Bar Foundation

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dr. JAMES

FRUGE'

"A beautiful smile can positively impact many aspects of a person's life. I see immediate changes in their confidence and self-esteem once treatment is started. That's the opportunity I want to offer these children."



Cleveland
wester

"We can help children smile and feel confident about themselves. We’ve got this one chance."

DR. BETTYE
MASHACK

"What a joy it is to be a part of this process of giving a child a gift that can last a lifetime!"

SHARON
NORWOOD

"I am committed to the betterment of foster children and their foster care experience, which is also the mission of FHL; that’s why I’m here."

Claire Huff

"I have seen firsthand how orthodontic treatment can change a person. These foster children deserve the health benefits and a confidence boost."


ROB
DELENA

"I’ve loved FHL’s mission ever since I heard it. I want to do everything possible to bridge gaps and make a difference."

DAMIANNA Folse

"As a former foster child, I know the unique challenges faced entering the adult world without the support, guidance & preparation most teens have. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of FHL's mission to empower foster children to overcome obstacles, and reach their full potential."

Kenyana Taylor

"Fostering Hope has improved my life for the better. I feel much more confident that I have the opportunity to get the smile every foster kid dreams of.”

Good mental health for foster youth is our ultimate destination; orthodontia is the vehicle that will take us there.   Leslie Lacy