L. Frances joined the SCAN Board of Directors in 2021. She quickly became involved in helping with staff and family needs, assisting with Program Committee projects and in other ways. We are grateful to have L. Frances and her kindness, expertise, and perspective on the SCAN Board!
How did you first get involved with SCAN?
I have been actively engaged in events in the Richmond community since 2013 following our family relocation from Dallas, Texas. A friend and SCAN board member, Rashida Gray, recognized my passion for helping others and asked if I would be interested in sharing this passion with SCAN. Following a meeting with Jeanine Harper and learning the full range of care and support provided to children, caregivers, and relatives in response to childhood trauma, I knew right then I wanted to be a part of this remarkable organization.
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN?
My career in the field of School Psychology spans more than 30 years and has given me a perspective of the influence of, “Being in the right PLACE, at the right TIME and using the right SKILLS for the right REASON.” In this capacity, I can offer support to SCAN from a distinct lens given my experience in diverse school districts serving diverse students and their families.
What inspires you to stay involved with SCAN?
I am truly inspired by the range of support offered by SCAN to the entire family system. I realize SCAN provides a universal approach to focus on the needs of the child where stakeholders are provided support and given the chance to share in the resolve.
Is there anything you wish other people knew about SCAN?
I wish the public knew more about SCAN and its mission to eradicate child abuse and neglect in the community. I wish people knew how SCAN works to secure the safety and wellbeing of children most at risk in our community. If people knew about SCAN, they would indeed support the organization through financial gifts and/or volunteer efforts.
What has been the best experience with SCAN so far?
The best experience with SCAN for me so far has been the opportunity to purchase items for the “Black Baby Doll,” toy drive. I was so excited to embrace diversity and purchase both Black Boy dolls and Black Girl dolls. It was bonus to furnish a child a doll to love and cherish that looks, ‘just like them.’
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
In my time with SCAN, I have not faced any challenges. I have been able to work collaboratively with SCAN staff to fulfill activities requested of me. It has been a pleasure to work with SCAN.
Do you have any goals or hopes for the next year?
As a previous school based mental health professional, I would like to donate my time to the Circle Preschool Program. I recognize the negative impact trauma has in early childhood. SCAN directs resources not only to the child but seeks to include all stakeholders within the family system which can also be very impactful.
Are you involved with any other community organizations, hobbies, or activities?
I am an active member of the Henrico Branch NAACP; Henrico Dems; Henrico Democratic Black Caucus; YMCA of Greater Richmond; National Association of School Psychologists; Gender Spectrum; and a founding member of TransParentCollective, a support group for Parents and Caregivers of Transgender and Gender Expansive individuals.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I represented the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) on Entertainment Tonight, in response to the outcry of parents, educators, as well as the negative press associated with the television cartoon, “Beavis and Butthead.”
Is there anything I didn’t ask that you wish I had?
As I am L.Frances Brown, SCAN Board Member, I exist as the intersectionality of all my life experiences. I am a Black Woman; Mother of Black Sons; Parent to a Transgender Adult; Graduate of a Historically Black College/University; Registered Voter; and former School Psychologist assigned to an urban school district. I proudly advocate diversity and give voice to families who wish a level playing field for their children. I live my life with awareness that dignity and respect should never depend on WHO you are; WHAT you believe; WHO you love; or WHAT zip code you call home.
