By Amber Green

We are thrilled to introduce Laithy Winters, one of the newest additions to Shore Legal Access (SLA). Laithy joins us as a Member of the Maryland Service Year Option, an initiative championed by Governor Wes Moore through the newly created Department of Service and Civic Innovation, designed to provide meaningful career experiences for young people. Fresh out of Chesapeake Christian School in Easton, Maryland, Laithy didn’t expect to find herself in such a role so soon after high school—but she’s embracing it with enthusiasm and pride. 

Laithy’s journey to SLA was sparked by the encouragement of a supportive SLA staff member who advocated for her to take on this opportunity. Reflecting on this experience, Laithy shared how empowering it was to have an adult believe in her and guide her to what she fondly calls a “Big Person Job.” 

At SLA, Laithy serves as the “frontline defense,” a role with significant responsibility. She’s the first point of contact for many of our potential clients—listening to their stories, building relationships, and connecting them to the legal resources and people who can help. It’s a job that requires both compassion and clarity, and Laithy excels at it. 

Her knack for fitting pieces together is something Laithy attributes to countless hours watching crime television with her dad. However, she credits her best friend Jada from high school as the person who truly helped her see her potential. “Jada’s support was instrumental in helping me see the value in myself,” Laithy said, highlighting the impact of positive relationships on her confidence. 

Laithy continues to receive that same encouragement from her peers and mentors at Shore Legal Access. With the support of adults at SLA who believe in her, Laithy is thriving in her role and eager to learn more about the legal world. And though she’s still early in her career journey, Laithy has big plans for the future—including college. 

We are excited to have Laithy as part of the SLA family and look forward to seeing her grow in her role as she continues to make an impact on the lives of those we serve.