Our Team

  • Lori James

    Lori James, a Chicago native who grew up in the Englewood Community, is the Executive Director of Love To Serve. Lori has been the driving force behind the organization’s mission to empower youth through sports and education.

    Lori's past experience include roles at IBM Corporation, where she honed her skills in fiscal management and strategic planning, and Chicago Public Schools, where she orchestrated city-wide programs and events. Lori has also served on the Women’s Boards of Northwestern University and the Ravinia Festival.

    Lori holds a Master’s degree in Management and Public Policy Analysis from Carnegie Mellon University and an undergraduate degree in Quantitative Methods in Business from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

    Lori’s love for tennis began when she was just 10 years old.  She and her dad would hit off the brick wall near her home or the 2- car garage door at the back of the house where she grew up. Because Lori was blessed with a world class education and a great career, when the opportunity presented itself to become fully invested at the community level and in Love To Serve, she was all in!

  • Amir James

    Amir James is the Managing Director of Tennis and Wellness at Love To Serve. Amir leads the strategic planning and development of tennis programs with a focus on fostering a love for the game and encouraging lifelong physical activity.

    Amir's extensive experience in both education and tennis includes his tenure as an elementary school teacher, Assistant Boys Tennis Coach at Francis W. Parker School, and Tennis Instructor at XS Tennis. Amir is certified by the United States Professional Tennis Registry (USPTR).

    Amir graduated from Virginia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education. While at school, he was a member of the university's Men’s Tennis Team, earning All CIAA Conference Honors.

    Amir’s passion for sports began with his childhood love of hockey, but friendly competition with his sister led him to pick up a tennis racket and he never looked back. Amir has dedicated his life to promoting youth development and wellness, dedicated to creating inclusive and engaging programs that inspire young people to lead healthy, active lives.