Introduction

A lifelong St. Petersburg resident, Lucinda Grant has spent over 30 years giving back to the city she calls home. Working with the City of St. Petersburg in various departments throughout the years most recently being promoted to Parks & Recreation Manager. Lucinda has a passion for her community and is involved in many organizations and programs, including Leadership St. Pete.

Years in St. Pete

All her life

Organizations involved in

Leadership St. Petersburg (LSP), Leadership St. Petersburg Alumni Association, National Forum for Black Public Administrators, Jordan Park Projects Nostalgic Association, Legacy56 and Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church

What gets you out of bed every day?

The people and the breath and life of a new day dawning.

Why St. Pete?

Why not St. Pete! When I am away from it, I want to come back to it, I am born and raised in St. Petersburg, my family is here, it is what I know, it is what I love.

What is one habit that you keep?

Reading, and reading my Bible, walking, lLoving, learning, listening, and taking care of Me and My Family.

Who are some people that influence you?

My Mom Lizzie, my family, friends, and foes, colleagues, mentors, Leadership St. Pete.

What is one piece of insight - a book, methodology, practice - that you would share with our readers?

Seek ways of self-improvement, love self and others, learn and listen more. I have learned so much via the death of my loved ones and this is one of the messages I received: Take nothing for granted, life is too short, if you love someone tell them so, for tomorrow is not promised and today is already gone.

What is one thing you wish you knew about your work 3 years ago?

I am more of an introvert, and I wish I had used and spoken out to my connections more.

What’s next?

I love to celebrate life and I love people, so whatever I do, it will involve giving back to the people both personally and professionally. My goal is to live, learn, listen and love more as it helps me grow and be a more impactful blessing to others. Last year I lived my life with purpose and courage, and this year I want to be more intentional – doing so with what I do, what I say, and how I live.

My goal is to live a positive, loved and blessed life every day and that is the way I awaken. My struggles have been interesting, but those same struggles are what have strengthened me and made me who I am today. We must stay focused on life’s lessons, knowing that they all have a purpose, and it is up to us to gather an understanding of each to get to move to the next life level.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” … Gandhi