LMO History

By addressing education, financial literacy, adult education, and entrepreneurship, LMO continues to uphold its commitment to supporting, empowering, and contributing to developing essential life-long skills for individuals in need, now on a broader scale than ever before.

Conception

Started From The Bottom

Founded in 2008, Liberated Minds Organization, LMO (originally established at Northern Illinois University, NIU) emerged as a student organization dedicated to supporting the seamless transition of black students into university life. Initially serving as a pivotal hub for networking and encouragement, with a specific focus on ensuring the perseverance of black students through to graduation, the organization underwent a remarkable transformation over the years. Both of our founder’s hail from Chicago, IL.

LMO NIU - The Beginning

Now We Here

Having celebrated its 15th year on campus this year, the student organization at Northern Illinois University (NIU) has established itself as a cornerstone of support, motivation, and community building. Over the years, this organization, known for its impactful work, has played a pivotal role in motivating numerous students to stay in school and successfully graduate. Founded with a vision to facilitate the smooth transition of black students into university life, the organization has evolved into a dynamic force that transcends its original purpose, leaving an indelible mark on the NIU community.

LMO 501 C3

Now The Whole Team Here

As LMO continued to grow, it evolved beyond its initial scope, gradually expanding its mission to encompass a broader community. The organization’s commitment to fostering educational and personal growth remained steadfast, leading to a significant milestone in its journey—the transition from a student organization to a full-fledged 501(c)(3) nonprofit. In this way, from its humble beginnings as a student organization at NIU, LMO has transformed into a multifaceted 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a comprehensive approach to community development.

LMO

Our Services

Empowerment

Explore a transformative journey with our Empowerment Programs, where adult literacy, financial literacy, and workforce development converge to elevate lives and open new horizons.

Enrichment

Our Education Enrichment Programs encompass truancy reduction initiatives, mentoring support, school staff professional development, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).

Entrepreneurs

From personalized start-up coaching to business credit insights and meticulous business plan development, we provide the tools and expertise to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.

Social Impact

Explore the blueprint for change with our planned charter school, fostering education, an incubator, nurturing entrepreneurship, and a social club, for building connections.

Contact Us to Learn More About our Org

Don’t be shy! Feel free to ask us anything. We’re here to assist and make things easier for you.

[email protected] 

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