In a season where The Landing has reached 100,000 moments of care and connection with survivors of human trafficking, we are delighted to welcome a new leader who has dedicated her career to giving a voice to and empowering the most marginalized in our midst.
We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Bourgoyne as the newly appointed CEO of The Landing. She has accepted this position effective Monday, June 23rd, 2025. Lisa brings with her over 27 years of experience serving vulnerable populations in Harris County. She has a long-standing career galvanizing community partners to drive meaningful change to achieve justice in the world of children’s advocacy. Furthermore, Lisa has been walking alongside the mission of The Landing since the beginning, praying with the co-founders and visiting the drop-in center when its doors opened. Her heart for the mission involves a history of working alongside community stakeholders, including The Landing, to help shape Texas’ first care coordination model for young survivors of trafficking—work that continues to make a difference across our state today.
Q&A With Lisa
What inspired you to join The Landing and step into the role of CEO? The Landing’s mission is life-changing and Christ-centered, walking alongside survivors of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation with a trauma-informed approach grounded in the love of Christ. That mission speaks deeply to my heart, and I’m truly honored to help lead The Landing into its next chapter. I’ve spent my entire career serving vulnerable populations—children and families who’ve experienced unimaginable harm. Stepping into this role of CEO at The Landing felt like the natural next step in nearly 30 years of work deeply rooted in compassion and purpose.
Can you share a little about your background and what led you to this mission? My background is rooted in the child advocacy movement, nonprofit leadership, and trauma-informed care. I’ve worked as a professional counselor since 1997, serving marginalized communities—including survivors of domestic and sexual violence, children and adolescents in crisis, and families facing complex challenges. Over the years, I’ve seen both the incredible resilience of survivors and the tough systems they have to navigate. Joining The Landing gives me the opportunity to bring my experience, my faith, and a strong belief in restoration to help support one of the most unseen and underserved groups in our city.
What does the phrase “Brighter than Gold” mean to you personally? To me, “Brighter than Gold” is a powerful reminder of the immeasurable worth of every person we serve The courage and strength of survivors shine brighter than anything this world can offer. It speaks to the hope we carry—that even in the darkest moments, there’s light, healing, and a bright future ahead.
What is your vision for The Landing in the next year? What are you most excited about? I see the year ahead as a time of purposeful growth—reaching more people, deepening our impact, and strengthening the services we offer. As we approach our 10th anniversary, I’m especially excited about building stronger partnerships with our community and faith-based allies, improving access to care, and opening more doors for long-term healing. The team at The Landing is all-in on the mission, and I believe this next chapter will show our bold belief in what’s possible and in the power of transformation.
How do you hope to build on the existing foundation and strengths of the organization? The Landing is trusted in our community for its excellence and the genuine care it shows in every relationship. My goal is to protect that strong foundation while helping the organization grow in a healthy, lasting way. That means supporting and investing in our team, learning from survivor feedback, and using data to make our programs even better. It also means deepening real, meaningful connections—with survivors, staff, volunteers, and the broader community.
What do you believe are the most pressing needs for survivors in Houston right now? Survivors in Houston face so many challenges—from finding immediate safety and legal support to securing long-term housing, mental health services, and financial stability. One of the biggest needs is access to consistent, trauma-informed, and culturally competent services that are easy to navigate. Survivors need to know they’re not alone, and that there’s a strong network ready to walk alongside them every step of the way. At The Landing, we believe healing begins with trust—and trust begins with understanding.
How do you see The Landing growing its impact in the community? We’re committed to being a trusted resource and a collaborative community partner. That means expanding outreach, strengthening our education and prevention efforts, and building deeper connections with law enforcement, service providers, and local leaders. I personally believe in the power of listening—listening to survivors, to our team, and to the community—so that we are responsive and relevant in our approach.
What role do you believe volunteers and donors play in helping advance this mission? Donors and volunteers are absolutely essential. Volunteers bring the hands and heart to our daily work, and donors keep our programs running and our vision moving forward. Every hour served, every dollar donated, and every prayer spoken over us makes a real difference. Together, they help create a community where survivors can heal and thrive— and we’re stronger because of them. How can the community best support your leadership and The Landing’s future? By staying engaged and being part of the conversation. Learn about human trafficking, share our mission, and show up when you’re able. I also ask for your grace, your prayers, and your trust. Leadership transitions come with both excitement and change, and I’m committed to leading with humility, honesty, and hope. The Landing has an incredible future ahead—and it will take all of us working together to get there.
What keeps you grounded and motivated in this work? I stay grounded by remembering that this work is sacred. Every story matters. Every person has value, and every small step forward is worth celebrating. My faith, my family, and the daily courage I see in survivors reminds me why we do what we do. Is there a quote, scripture, or mantra that guides your leadership? There are two that I carry with me daily. The first is Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse has been prayed over me and my family all our lives, and it reminds me that even when we feel inadequate, overwhelmed, or unsure—feelings that come with this work—we are never alone. Our strength is in Him. The second is inspired by Roosevelt’s speech, The Man in the Arena. It reminds me that what matters most isn’t the critic, but the person who shows up, takes action, and faces challenges head-on. The one who dares greatly, even when it’s hard—the one “in the arena,” striving, stumbling, and giving their all even when they fail. Leadership, especially in this work, requires courage, vulnerability, and perseverance. That quote helps me stay present, even on the toughest days.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work to recharge? I love spending time with my family—traveling to our son’s races, hanging out with our dogs, watching a good movie, diving into a great book, or listening to music. Whether it’s a long bike ride, cheering on our son, or laughing around the dinner table—I find joy in life’s simple moments. Please join us in giving Lisa a warm welcome as she steps into this new season with The Landing. We are expectant for the growth, healing, and transformation to come!
