Today we’d like to introduce you to Latoya Williams.
Hi Latoya, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started out volunteering for a homeless shelter for girls in my hometown of Shreveport, LA. Some of those girls were victims of human trafficking. I was eventually invited to attend human trafficking meetings with the Juvenile Justice Department and learned about the signs to look for in potential victims. After that, my pastor opened a group home for boys, and during that time, I saw that there was a need for more places to house this vulnerable population. So, I decided that I wanted to start my own homeless shelter for boys and girls.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I started the process of starting our nonprofit during the pandemic, and I was not able to get the resources I needed. My family and I had just moved to Texas, and the pandemic didn’t allow us the opportunity to build relationships within the community and with other organizations. Finding a home for us to start accepting children has been a major challenge because most persons that are leasing their homes are not willing to open it up to a homeless youth shelter. Because our shelter is a non-profit, finding funds has also been a struggle but now that the pandemic has somewhat lessened, we are able to build relationships and seek funding opportunities.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have been a nurse for 13 years and have worked in many different nursing specialties in nursing management roles. I recently stepped down from my role as a Director of Nursing and started a new career as a School Nurse. Since changing career paths, I am able to see more of the need for children that are in need of stable housing. I’ve truly found my passion, but most importantly, my calling and that is to serve those that are less fortunate. I also have a passion for community. I love learning new skills and being able to educate and bring awareness to underserved persons and communities. Over the years, I have organized many health and wellness fairs, and I realized that that’s what I am most proud of. To know that my team and I have reached so many people by providing supportive services to advance their overall well-being. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic and compassion for community. Being willing and able to serve others is truly a gift from God, and I don’t take it for granted.
What’s next?
I’m currently in school pursuing my doctorate at UTA. I plan on continuing to build relationships within communities, with a focus on underserved families and communities. We are planning to host more health fairs and symposiums this year, and I am looking forward to Agape Love House having a place to call our home in the near future. Overall, I would love to find a space that feels like home, offer career readiness programs, provide financial education and literacy, and continue to promote health education and awareness to families. I see a big future for Agape Love House and believe that one day, we will be a household name, serving homeless persons and educating communities all across the nation.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/agapelovehouse
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087426787898
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agape-love-house/
- Twitter: @agape_house1
- Youtube: @agapelovehouse4110
Image Credits
G Williams Productions
