Organ Transplant Clinical Coordinator · New England Donor Services · Waltham, MA
In her professional life, Juniliz Lacend works where the stakes are highest. As an organ transplant clinical coordinator with New England Donor Services, she helps make the gift of life possible for patients and families.
Ask her who she is beyond that title, though, and the answer comes quickly: "I am a mother, and my son is what matters most to me. Besides motherhood, I enjoy helping and seeing others succeed."
On November 14 at Knights, Crowns & Community, For One Child Foundation will honor Juniliz with the 2026 Knight of Service Award.
Everyone Can Use a Helping Hand
Juniliz's view of service has been shaped by years of working closely with many communities, including people experiencing homelessness, people living with mental health challenges, older adults, and families.
"All of those experiences have made me see the broader picture: everyone can always use a helping hand, no matter how big or small," she says.
Service, she says, has given her "a sense of belonging in different rooms and communities." What keeps her going is simple: "Helping others in need, and making small changes for big impacts."
Showing Up for Kids
Juniliz first connected with For One Child by attending events and supporting the Foundation's backpack drive, making sure children start the school year with the supplies they need.
The cause she cares about most is children's education and the barrier of limited access to resources. What draws her to the Foundation's mission is its promise of "giving every child a chance at a fulfilling future."
"Children are our future," she says, "and they are the ones who can make a true change."
Her most meaningful moment with For One Child wasn't a big one, and that's the point: "Being able to make a difference with a simple act of kindness, just giving back where it's needed."
Off the Clock
- Surprising fact: "I never give up, no matter how big or small the challenge."
- Where you'll find her: Traveling, or spending time with her son.
- Her flowers go to: Her mother, Aida, who supported her through her career, her education, and many of life's challenges, including motherhood. "She instilled so many personal values in me: kindness, integrity, family, and simplicity."
"Children need guidance and sympathy more than instruction." — Juniliz's guiding words
A Family of Service
Service runs in the Lacend family. Juniliz's son, Juniel, is also being honored this year with the 2026 Young Knight of Service Award for his service in the community, including a summer spent volunteering with For One Child Foundation, where he helped develop the new website and designed the event backdrop. In his own spotlight, Juniel calls his mother "the most selfless person I know and admire."
Her Advice
"Write down your goals, and use the resources and people around you to guide you in the direction you want to go. Don't be afraid to ask for help."
What This Honor Means
"I feel honored to receive this award," Juniliz says. In the words of Aesop: "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."
The Legacy She's Building
"I hope the impact I leave behind encourages others to step out of their comfort zones and put themselves into rooms that will help them grow."
We'll celebrate Juniliz at Knights, Crowns & Community on Saturday, November 14, 2026. Thank you to everyone joining us for a sold-out evening honoring the people investing in the next generation.
For One Child Foundation: Empowering Education. Transforming Lives.