Her Story
About LaToya
LaToya Spencer serves as the owner of an independent living home, a venture she launched on July 1st to provide wraparound services and support for individuals seeking to transition off the streets. Her career path began with seven years of service as a classification officer at the 45 County Detention Center, where her responsibilities closely resembled those of a counselor. Building on this experience and her master's degree in counseling, Spencer decided to pursue this entrepreneurial path after extensive research. She credits her two mentors, Damika McMahon, a doctoral student, and Dr. William Lee, for encouraging her to follow her heart despite initial fears. In addition to managing her independent living home, Spencer maintains a separate 9-to-5 position while overseeing daily operations at the home. Her professional values center on family, friends, and a strong work ethic, and she emphasizes the importance of networking to fill client beds and sustain the home's operations without focusing on profit.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LaToya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I have two mentors. And they are... they have really pushed me into... Doing what I... in my heart, I want to do what I was scared to do. So... I would say my two mentors. One's name is Damika McMahon. She's a doctoral student. And then one is Dr. William Lee.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Just do it. Don't think too much about it, just do it.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If this is something that you want to do, if this is something that your heart desires. You know, do your research. And go for it. Get people, you know, find people who are doing the same thing. Let them help mentor you and go for it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenges would be getting my clients, having my beds filled. In order to maintain the bills in the home. I don't necessarily care about a profit, I just want to maintain the bills, so that's my biggest challenge. ... opportunities? We'll be getting to know different people from all walks of life.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My family, my friends. Those are the biggest values. Yeah, that's... I would say my family and friends. My work ethic.
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