Meet Lawanda Gosa
At Creative Spirits CDC, we believe that healing, opportunity, and lasting change begin within the community. Guided by Lawanda Gosa’s leadership, we work alongside individuals and families to build stronger relationships, expand access to support, and create safer, more resilient communities.
Founder & Community Leader
Lawanda Gosa
Lawanda Gosa is a visionary community developer whose God-given mission is to creatively solve the systemic challenges that prevent urban communities from thriving. A driven and dynamic leader, she embraces challenges and pursues growth with intention. Her unique blend of determination, creativity, and compassion has guided a career spanning community development, political organizing, lobbying, program design, and motivational leadership.
Throughout her career, Ms. Gosa has touched the lives of thousands—from families affected by substance abuse to women experiencing domestic violence, ex-offenders rebuilding their lives, and especially youth. Her deepest passion lies in empowering young people and equipping them with the wisdom, compassion, and guidance needed to transform their futures. Believing wholeheartedly that healing begins with the next generation, Ms. Gosa founded Creative Spirits Community Development Corporation (CSCDC) in 2019.
Through CSCDC, she has led youth after-school programs, partnered with local schools, and played a key role in victim impact panels at juvenile detention centers. Throughout her career, she has mobilized people, built trust, facilitated seminars, developed public education materials, and collaborated with institutions, political leaders, and residents to improve the quality of life in underserved communities.
Our Story
Ms. Gosa’s educational foundation has been central to her work. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a minor in Psychology from Governor’s State University and later completed her Master’s Degree in Community Development at North Park University, strengthening her expertise in designing and implementing effective community programs.
Driven by vision, faith, and a deep understanding of people, she continues to use her voice and experience to inspire growth, advocate for others, and create meaningful impact. In addition to leading CSCDC, Ms. Gosa serves in community outreach for Robbins and previously held a leadership role with A Sure Foundation. Across every role, she remains committed to restoring hope, building strong community relationships, and creating pathways for youth to rise above the challenges they face.
Mission and Values
Creative Spirits CDC is dedicated to addressing childhood exposure to violence and trauma through community-driven, restorative approaches. Rooted in the belief that healing must come from within the community, we work alongside residents to build safe, supportive environments that strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to violence.
Our work centers on community empowerment and development, integrating restorative justice, trauma-informed practices, direct outreach, victim advocacy, and access to essential resources. By fostering meaningful engagement, expanding access to services, and elevating community leadership, we work to promote healing and build stronger, safer neighborhoods.
