Meet Lori A. Manns | Philanthropist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lori A. Manns and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lori A., how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work life balance is a concept that changes as you get older, and priorities begin to shift. In my opinion, balance implies that there is equal time allocated for work and home life. For me work life balance has evolved into work life integration whereas the two coexist as a whole. I have learned to integrate my work into my life so that it doesn’t overwhelm me. Additionally, I have learned the hard way that taking time away from work is absolutely essential to operate at my highest self.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I am an entrepreneur and philanthropist. I became an entrepreneur in 2009 after being downsized from my corporate job. One of the things that I’m most proud of is that I did not give up. I quickly made the decision to start my own business. I am the founder and president of Quality Media Consultant Group, a business consultancy firm specializing in media, marketing and sales solutions for optimal business success. Additionally, in 2010 I founded the Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to children’s health and wellness.

Operating a small business and a nonprofit simultaneously for more than a decade has not been without challenges. However, one of the ways I have overcome the challenges is by praying and planning. As a believer in God, I pray and I plan then I execute to the best of my ability. After I have done my best work, I release whatever is left to God.

One of the things I want people to know about me is that I am a servant leader with a heart to give back. I truly care about people and specifically the well-being of children. For this reason, I continue to do charity work and give back to my community through the work we do at Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation, Inc.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I enjoy living in the metropolitan Atlanta area. If I had a friend visiting from out of town, who wasn’t familiar with the area, I would take them to several iconic places. Day one, we’d go to the Civil Rights Museum, King Center and the World of Coca-Cola. Day two, we would check out the Georgia Aquarium and have lunch at Atlantic Station and take in a movie. Day three, we would go shopping at Lenox Mall and have lunch at Chops Lobster Bar. Day four, we would go to Piedmont Park and have a picnic with an Impossible burger from Slutty Vegan and people watch. Day five, we would drive up to Lake Lanier and spend the day. Day six we would check out Nouveau Bar & Grill for dinner and kareoke in College Park, then go downtown ATL to Ponce City Market for drinks and dessert at Nine Mile Station. Finally on day seven, we’d have brunch on the ATL Beltline and check out the High Museum.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

As a philanthropist, I have had the good fortune to be surrounded by a tribe of great people who support me and my charitable endeavors. Specifically, my parents gave me a great example of community service. During my adolescent years, my mother was a community volunteer at homeless shelters and our church, and my dad was a community volunteer with schools and churches as well. At an early age, I was taught the concept of helping those who are less fortunate as well as giving back to my community.

As a nonprofit leader and founder of Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation, I am grateful for organizations like United Way and Junior League of Atlanta. These organizations offer many valuable resources to charitable causes that are definitely needed.

On a more personal note, I must thank my mom, my biggest cheerleader for all of her support. Also, I have to thank Cherryl Harris and Rhonda Turner, the longest-serving, most dedicated members of the board of directors for Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation, Inc. Both of these ladies have servant hearts and I truly appreciate their dedication and support, which has been a huge blessing.

Website: www.livehealthyandthriveyouth.org

Instagram: www.instagram.com/LHTYF

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/live-healthy-&-thrive-youth-foundation-inc.

Twitter: www.instagram.com/LHTYF

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LiveHealthyandThriveYouthFoundation

Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/LHTYF

Image Credits
The picture taken with the table and sign was by Moore Memories. All other photos were taken by LHTYF staff.