Supportive Housing and Health Services, Southern CA
Name: Andrea Adayan
Position: Lead Care Manager
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: December 28, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: March 10 / San Jose, CA
About You: I moved to Sacramento, CA, in the early 2000s. I enjoy walks mostly in the fall when the leaves have fallen from the trees, and reading positive daily quotes. I bought my first home two years ago and live with my family and two fur dogs, a German Shepherd and a Standard Bulldog.
Favorite Quote: I have many, although one stands out more to me in this moment and time in my life regarding my passion for helping others. “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” -Albert Schweitzer
Interests or Hobbies: I collect pictures of hummingbirds and sunflowers. I’m a huge football fan and a faithful 49ers supporter. I enjoy quick weekend getaways to the beach.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Building Resilient Communities: I understand the importance of meeting basic needs for families and individuals who are unhoused and struggle to afford sustainable housing. Our community requires more empathy, compassion, and kindness.
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Name: Adriana Allen
Position: Lead Care Manager/Cal-AIM
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: February 19, 2025
Birth date and Birthplace: October 22 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I am a mother of two beautiful children named Shawn and Amara, whom I adore. I am very active. I love to be BUSY and I love people. I majored in psychology with a BA from CSUN, which is why I believe I can get along with just about anybody. I love to swim, eat, rollercoasters, clothes, and the gym. I love God, and I am on a journey to getting closer to him. Overall, I am an outgoing, loving, hard-working, beautiful soul who just wants to live a comfortable life with my little family.
Favorite Quote: “Nothing in life worth having comes easy.”
Interests or Hobbies: Cooking, bike riding, psychology, making money!
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why:
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Name: Adrianna Brackins
Position: Case Manager/HFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: December 18, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: February 3 / Riverside, CA
About You: I am a 28-year-old mom who enjoys traveling, being with my child, and being around family. I am currently going to school to be a social worker.
Favorite Quote: I’m a masterpiece trying to master peace.
Interests or Hobbies: Basketball, taking vacations, being a mom
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: The reason for this is that we strive to ensure every client is successful. Also, we strive to have the right resources for the client.
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Name: Amber Jensen
Position: Project Supervisor
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: June 10, 2022
Birth date and Birthplace: June 9 / Southern California
About You: I have always been deeply passionate about positively impacting people’s lives. I find immense fulfillment in helping individuals overcome challenges and realize their full potential. My work ethic is strong, and I am committed to dedicating myself fully to bettering others. Upon completing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I became interested in specializing further in Child Psychology. My personal experiences and professional aspirations have led me to realize the importance of understanding and aiding children’s mental and emotional development. Now that my children are independent, I am eager to pursue my master’s in child psychology.
Favorite Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” -Winston Churchill
Interests or Hobbies: My children mean the world to me, and bringing them up to be the best versions of themselves is the most fulfilling part of my life. I take great joy in witnessing their growth and development. In addition to that, I have a passion for reading and expanding my knowledge. I cherish the moments spent with my family, creating lasting memories. Lastly, attending the annual Rodeo in Houston is a tradition I eagerly look forward to every year.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: Providing clients with resources and support for improved quality of life, including housing, healthcare, education, and job training, fostering independence and dignity.
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Name: Arlene Tapia
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: October 10, 2022
Birth date and Birthplace: March 28
About You: I am an empathetic, creative, unbiased, honest, bold, empowered, autonomous, self-conscious human being. I can be both soft-hearted and easily confident and assertive when necessary. I thrive on being courageous when facing challenges and overcoming adversity with determination.
Favorite Quote: “Fear can stop you loving, love can stop your fear”
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy nature, traveling, road trips, playing music, and going to concerts.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment and Personal Growth: We are constantly evolving and transforming when we are empowered, which gives way to personal growth.
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Name: Cyrus Esfandiary
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 24, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: August 23 / Van Nuys, CA
About You: I work for LifeSTEPS as an Intensive Case Manager and enjoy the work I do.
Favorite Quote: “I call you Sun, because you shine like one.”
Interests or Hobbies: Reading, creative writing, photography, and painting.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Innovation: I believe we think inside and outside of the parameters to ensure we are looking for new ways to help our clients, peers, and partners.
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Name: Denelle Fedor
Position: Case Manager/FSS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: January 4, 2021
Birth date and Birthplace: February 9 / San Jose, CA
About You: Thoroughly enjoy being a Case Manager with LifeSTEPS—love being paid for doing something I love!
Favorite Quote: “Take Care of You, For Me & I Will Take Care of Me, For You” -Jim Rohn
Interests or Hobbies: Spending time with family & friends.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment for Others: Every person should have the opportunity to recognize their own self-worth—learning, investing, and making important decisions for themselves, such as, financial & personal growth.
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Name: Emily Juarez
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: July 3, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: May 21
About You: I am an introvert; I do not like talking in big groups. I plan to go back to school soon to get my Master’s Degree and pursue my career.
Favorite Quote: “Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” -Jim Roth
Interests or Hobbies: Hiking, Movie Theatre, shopping at Marshalls/Homegoods.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Provide supportive services that make individuals feel heard and understood when others have failed them.
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Name: Graciela Ruiz
Position: Lead Care Manager/Cal-AIM
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: July 17, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: September 15 / Mexico City
About You: I am an eligibility worker for Los Angeles and Santa Barbara Counties. I am a certified Crisis Wellness Specialist working with Mentally Ill, Homeless-Domestic Violence, and Mental Health Court individuals. My expertise is in DPSS, SSE & GR, F/S Medical and Medicare Process; assist placing individuals in permanent housing with DMH and Housing Authority; Advocate for family in DCS and criminal cases to return their children back home, as well as to serve those in need.
Favorite Quote: There is light on the other side of the rain.
Interests or Hobbies: I am passionate about education and enjoy sharing my knowledge with those who are interested in advancing their personal growth.
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Name: Jasmine Sanchez
Position: Lead Care Manager Specialist/Cal-AIM
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: May 1, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: December 23
About You: As a full-time work-from-home mom, I can integrate my passion for cooking, trying new foods with family life. Involving my kids in culinary adventures enhances quality time.
Favorite Quote: Sometimes we just have to let things go.
Interests or Hobbies: Cooking and gardening are wonderful bobbies that encourage creativity and promote a sustainable lifestyle. Combining cooking with homegrown ingredients enhances both flavor and nutrition, leading to healthier meals.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Personal Growth: Everyone needs a chance to grow and overcome the obstacles that are stopping them from growing.
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Name: 
Jennifer Zavala
Position: Lead Care Manager/Cal-AIM
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: February 28, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: November 12 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I’ve always had a passion for helping people and my community, a feeling that’s been with me since joining Girl Scouts as a little girl and continuing through my involvement in community events as I got older. I’m friendly, easy-going, and also a first-generation Salvadorian-American.
Favorite Quote: “Uno pone y Dios dispone” translates to “Man proposes, and God disposes”
Interests or Hobbies: I’m passionate about hiking, especially when it leads to breathtaking city views. Sunsets are my favorite, and I love experiencing them while riding motorcycles with my fiancé. My senior dogs are my world; walking and spending quality time with them is incredibly important to me.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: I’m thrilled to have joined this amazing team! We share a passion for helping communities, and together, we’ll provide them with resources to thrive and achieve lasting success.
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Name: Jenny Gibson
Position: SHHS Project Manager
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: January 25, 2021
Birth date and Birthplace: April 17 / Philadelphia, PA
About You: I love working in permanent supportive housing and proud of the work we do to help the formerly homeless remain housed.
Favorite Quote: “So shines a good deed in a weary world.”
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy a variety of hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment to my life. Knitting allows me to express my creativity, while reading transports me to new worlds. I cherish spending time with family and friends, sharing laughter and creating memories. I also love the mental challenge of crosswords and sudoku. Being in nature rejuvenates my spirit, and playing with my dog brings endless joy and companionship. Each of these activities enriches my life in its own special way.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity.
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Name: Joleen Esquivel
Position: Case Manager/HFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 15, 2016
Birth date and Birthplace: November 7
About You: I am currently finishing my MSW to obtain my clinical license. My passion for helping the vulnerable is one reason that inspired me to become a social worker. My experience in this field has taught me to celebrate the small victories towards positive changes.
Favorite Quote: “The greatness of a man is not how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” -Bob Marley
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy traveling to new places and exploring different cultures. My hobbies are painting, music events, volunteering, and spending time with my son and our Frenchie Ace.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: We believe in an empowerment approach that encourages individual abilities. We support this by ensuring that everyone has adequate tools, skills, input, opportunities, and knowledge to be successful. This value is my favorite because it shows that we want everyone to win and are willing to help them with support, to get there.
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Name: Kevin Winston
Position: Project Supervisor
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: September 29, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: July 16 / Ithaca, New York
About You: I am a 29-year-old man from upstate New York, and I have been living in Los Angeles for almost two and a half years.
In the workplace, I strive to be professional, friendly, empathetic, and kind. Outside of work, I maintain these traits but allow for more humor and free-flowing conversation. I enjoy engaging with new people and learning about a variety of topics. I am goal-oriented and take pride in finding the most efficient ways to complete tasks.
In my free time, I like to play video games, watch movies and shows, and participate in outdoor activities like hiking and exploring new areas. I also enjoy spending time with my friends, my significant other, and our puppy, as well as with my family.
Favorite Quote: “Love the life you live, Live the life you love” -Bob Marley
Interests or Hobbies: All sports are favorites, except for basketball and football; hiking, yoga, video games, spending time with my significant other and puppy, visiting museums, and appreciating art are included.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Innovation: I believe that being open to new strategies and protocols facilitates the ongoing, effective delivery of services while addressing the needs of the service population and preventing repetitive practices that may lead to disengagement.
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Name: Lani Buchignani-Bowen
Position: Lead Care Manager
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: December 21, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: March 17 / Sacramento, CA
About You: I live my life with gratitude and peace. I love helping others and sharing laughter whenever possible. I feel genuinely happy when I can help others feel at ease.
Favorite Quote: “Health is the greatest gift, contentment is the greatest wealth, faithfulness is the best relationship.” -Buddha
Interests or Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy hiking to admire the beautiful scenery of California, as well as learning more about gardening and geology. I grew up watching my grandfather farm and garden, which has become a passion of mine. I am also a mother to an energetic six-year-old boy, and I love sharing my knowledge and teaching him about these subjects.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: “The mission of LifeSTEPS is to provide effective educational and supportive services to maximize the strengths of individuals and build resilient communities.”
This mission is immensely powerful to me because it makes LifeSTEPS stand out. Providing these unique services to people fills me with pride as I am part of such a movement.
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Name: Linda Yan
Position: Case Manager/FSS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: October 1, 2015
Birth date and Birthplace: July 4 / Vietnam
About You: I have been working at LifeSTEPS for 8 1/2 years as a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Case Manager. I take great pride in helping my clients stay focused and motivated, guiding them to become productive and successful individuals in society. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives.
Favorite Quote: “You can do it!”
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, listening to music, and traveling to explore new places. These activities allow me to connect with nature, unwind through melodies, and discover the beauty of different cultures and landscapes.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: LifeSTEPS’ Mission is to empower individuals by providing them with the skills, resources, and support needed for stable housing. I share these goals and values, believing that everyone deserves the opportunity to improve their lives. Through case management, I offer my clients the guidance, resources, and tools necessary to help them find the right path to success.
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Name: Lori Prince
Position: Case Manager/HFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: May 11, 2021
Birth date and Birthplace: October 29 / Ardmore, OK
About You: I am a product of two parents who grew up together in Oklahoma. I am my father’s child when it comes to holidays, birthdays, supporting my siblings and other family members. Going to concerts, I become my mother’s child in the work environment, supportive, caring, and making the impossible happen.
Favorite Quote: “You can do it, Charlie Brown!”
Interests or Hobbies: Spending time with my grandchildren, great-nieces and nephews, helping others, and working my de-stressor part-time job at the Wiltern Theater. I enjoy watching Classic Television: Adam 12, Perry Mason, Alfred Hitchcock, and The Twilight Zone.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Do whatever it takes to meet the needs of the clientele we serve.
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Name: Maria Isabel Lopez
Position: Lead Care Manager/ Cal-AIM
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: September 29, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: January 14
About You: Hello! My name is Maria Isabel, but I prefer to be called Isabel. You can also call me Isa or Issy; I respond to all of them. I’m 32 years old and a Capricorn, for those interested in astrology. I love to satisfy my curiosity and learn new things when I’m not busy with the demands of everyday life. I’m a big fan of the outdoors and have a serious travel bug. Currently, I’m a student at GCU, navigating the world of academics. I share my home with my boyfriend and our two wonderful dogs: a charming chocolate dachshund and a beautiful Australian Shepherd. My hobbies often change, but right now, I’m really interested in woodworking.
Favorite Quote: “If you learn it enough, you won’t hate it anymore.”
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy a variety of activities, including Cricut projects, resin work, candle making, gardening, painting, dancing, and long-distance running (focusing on endurance rather than speed). I also practice High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), manicuring, digital art, culinary arts, literature, and self-care. Additionally, I love DIY bath bomb creation, thrift store shopping, camping, hiking, and engaging in water-based activities.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity: Fosters trust through consistent and ethical decision-making, maintaining a positive atmosphere.
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Name: Maria Romerez
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: June 12, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: November 7 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I have worked in Human Services for thirteen years with multiple underserved populations. I have the chance to learn something new every day and grow personally and professionally. The reward is the client having an opportunity to be permanently housed and living independently.
Favorite Quote: Do the best you can do until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.
Interests or Hobbies: Yoga, meditation, pilates, reading, and spending time with family.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity: Every person served by LifeSTEPS will be empowered with the skills, resources, and support to maintain stable housing and break the cycle of poverty. Every client deserves to have clean, stable, and safe housing.
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Name: Marissa Quiroz
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: October 28, 2019
Birth date and Birthplace: June 20 / Hawaiian Gardens
About You: Mother of six (3 boys, 3 girls) and a Grama to a baby girl.
Favorite Quote: You can’t change what you have no control over, but you can change how you react to things.
Interests or Hobbies: Traveling and making memories.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why:
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Name: Michael Espinoza
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 12, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: August 3
About You: I have an outgoing personality and a passion for sports.
Favorite Quote: “Whenever in doubt, always remember your Tio Michael is always here.”
Interests or Hobbies: Being a parent and grandparent while also being involved in sports.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Continue assisting others when needed. I believe this can help clients achieve their goals and become more self-sufficient.
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Name: Queenie Ngo
Position: Community Engagement Director for Santa Clara County/FSS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 23, 2014
Birth date and Birthplace: February 2 / Saigon, Vietnam
About You: I have more than ten years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community outreach, and program management. I have a proven track record of building strong partnerships with community organizations, public agencies, and stakeholders. I am passionate about empowering underserved populations through innovative programs and resources, and I am deeply committed to fostering social impact and community resilience.
Favorite Quote: “Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference in the world.” -Roy T. Bennett
Interests or Hobbies: Community Service, Reading, and Self-Education
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: It deeply aligns with my mission to help individuals and communities thrive. In my work in community engagement, I focus on fostering independence and resilience. My goal is to ensure that underserved populations not only receive support but are also equipped to overcome challenges and create lasting positive change. I am dedicated to uplifting others and enabling them to take control of their own futures.
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Name: Ruben Aguilera
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: May 6, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: April 21 / Mexico
About You: I’m a Taurus and a military veteran. I hold a B.A. and an M.A. in Psychology.
Favorite Quote: If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life thinking it was stupid.
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy reading, playing chess, and spending time with my family.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity, Respect & Personal Growth: It takes a Pillar to evolve as a human.
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Name: Samantha Noegel
Position: Case Manager
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: October 3, 2022
Birth date and Birthplace: December 2 / Castro Valley
About You: From a young age, I would often express my goal in life as wanting to help others. I am grateful that over the past two years, I have had the opportunity to fulfill that goal as a case manager. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health, and I will be graduating in May 2025 with my Master of Social Work.
Favorite Quote: “The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.”
Interests or Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy reading, mostly fantasy books. I also like being outside, whether camping, boating, or hiking, especially with my family or at a music festival, dancing the night away with my friends.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: It is so important to not only educate and support our clients but also increase their self-efficacy through empowering them. By doing so, we are handing them the tools and the confidence to achieve their goals.
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Name: Sarina Anderson
Position: DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: November 25, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: January 21 / Huntington Beach
About You: I moved to the Valley to go to California State University, Northridge; began working for a non-profit and pursuing professional hip hop dancing.
Favorite Quote: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” -Mother Teresa
Interests or Hobbies: Hip Hop Dance, Yoga, Cooking, the Beach
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Personal Growth: I believe we have ample opportunity to learn about ourselves in the process of helping others. In serving our clients, we can simultaneously improve our skills as employees and as people
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Name: Shareca Swan
Position: Southern California Regional Director/Supportive Health Services
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: June 10, 2019
Birth date and Birthplace: December 3 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles. I graduated from Crenshaw High School and then received my B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Northridge. Since receiving my degree, I have never stopped pursuing additional professional training and education to further my supervisory and leadership skills. I see the good in everyone and give my best every single day to let you know I care. I accept each experience of my life as a chance to grow and waste little time in looking back, but always moving forward. I have high expectations of myself as a wife, a mom, and as a leader. I am gentle in my presentation and powerful in my actions. I truly do want to change the world.
Favorite Quote: “Now, more than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence. We all know the truth: More connects us than separates us. But in times of crisis, the wise build bridges while the foolish build barriers. We must find a way to look after one another, asd if we were one single tribe.” -T’Challa Black Panther
Interests or Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy reading, mostly fantasy books. I also like being outside, whether camping, boating, or hiking, especially with my family or at a music festival, dancing the night away with my friends.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: I believe that every person should be empowered to be the best version of themselves so that they may be successful in all their endeavors.
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Name: Sherika White
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: February 5, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: September 3 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I have experience working in social services for 4-5 years, with a focus on client assessments and case management. During my time in this role, I have obtained a great deal of knowledge and understanding of clients’ needs, while also developing strong problem-solving and communication skills. With years of personal experience, I have been able to adapt and ensure successful outcomes.
Favorite Quote: Stay ten toes down. It’s not on you, it’s in you, and what’s in you, they cannot take away…None but ourselves can free our minds…don’t gain the world and lose your soul, wisdom is better than silver and gold.
Interests or Hobbies: Graphic design, Reading, Traveling, Giving Back, Spending Time with family.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity: Is an important value that focuses on building good, long-lasting, successful relationships. People with integrity are more likely to work collaboratively, communicate openly, and build strong connections with others.
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Name: Stephanie Aguirre
Position: Community Health Worker
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: May 30, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: November 11 / Los Angeles, CA
About You: I am 33 years old and passionate about becoming a therapist. My motivation comes from helping people overcome their barriers to lead truly fulfilling lives.
Favorite Quote: “Everything is always working out for me.”
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy reading, hiking, and relaxing wherever I can, simply by taking the time to be present in the moment.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity: It establishes a foundation of trust and authenticity, allowing for genuine and meaningful connections.
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Name: Tamara Williams
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: July 10, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: March 18 / Lakewood, CA
About You: I find joy in creative pursuits like pottery and nurturing my plant collection. I like to cook, and I especially enjoy preparing meals on the weekends for my nephew. My furry feline friends keep me on my toes (and their hair on my clothes!). With a psychology background from CSUN, I bring a strong sense of empathy and dedication to my work in homeless services. I also cherish time with family and friends and enjoy the occasional hike and yoga session as part of my quest for balance.
Favorite Quote: “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.” -Margaret Mead
Interests or Hobbies: My interests include pottery, cooking, and tending to my plant collection. I love spending weekends cooking for my nephew, while my furry feline friends add joy and a bit of whimsy to my daily life. I also enjoy hiking and practicing yoga, and I treasure moments spent with family and friends.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: Is my standout value because it embodies the essence of helping individuals unlock their full potential. By focusing on providing the necessary tools, skills, and opportunities, we enable people to take charge of their own success. True healing requires more than support. By empowering those we serve, we facilitate meaningful and transformative change.
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Name: Temeka Shaffer
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: June 12, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: March 17
About You: Single mom of 3 girls, fun, loving, and compassionate.
Favorite Quote: “If you didn’t document it, it didn’t happen.”
Interests or Hobbies: Reading, Concerts, and Traveling
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Integrity: I feel it’s important to be a good person and put good out into the world, no matter who’s watching or what you may have experienced in life.
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Name: Thu Pham
Position: Case Manager/FSS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: July 1, 2021
Birth date and Birthplace: April 13 / Vietnam
About You: I was born in Vietnam and moved to the US 20 years ago. I returned to school and earned my bachelor’s degree, as obtaining an education and degree in America had always been my dream. Before coming to the US, I worked as a flight attendant for an airline in Korea. Before my position at LifeSTEPS, I worked in the education field, ranging from private to public colleges. I have lived in Boston, Orlando, and Houston, and I am now residing in Southern California, where I enjoy the pleasant weather and the beautiful nature, including the mountains and beaches.
Favorite Quote: Not everything that glitters is gold.
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, reading, and watching K-dramas and Chinese series.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Help others. I’m glad to see people become self-sufficient, able to stand on their own feet and support themselves while trying to overcome hardship. Their success stories make me feel so happy.
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Name: Tyler Gray
Position: Case Manager/DHS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: July 3, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: December 25
About You: Jamaican & Belizean American
Favorite Quote: “Absolutely NOT”
Interests or Hobbies: Basketball, Football, Holistic Medicine
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Keeping employees satisfied. Tuning into the needs of employees.
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Name: Van Ngo
Position: Project Supervisor
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: August 22, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: September 4 / Louisville, KY
About You: I’m an animal lover. I’m passionate about helping others who cannot help themselves.
Favorite Quote: “Everyone fails at who they are supposed to be, Thor. The Measure of a person, of a hero…Is how well they succeed at being who they are.” -Frigga, Avengers: Endgame
Interests or Hobbies: Outdoors (hiking, beach). I love to go explore new places and see new things, always open to trying new adventures.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Maximize the strengths of individuals and build resilient communities. Because ultimately our goal for Permanent Supportive Housing is for our Clients to be able to live independently without needing much support.
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Name: Veronica Aguilar Lara
Position: Lead Care Manager
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: February 28, 2024
Birth date and Birthplace: July 22
About You: My name is Veronica. I enjoy spending time with my family and going for walks with my dog. Travelling and creating new memories are also two of my passions. In my free time, I like to try new restaurants.
Favorite Quote: Dream until it’s your reality
Interests or Hobbies: I enjoy coffee, boba, food, reality TV, gel nails, walking, and yoga.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: We believe in an empowerment approach that encourages individuals to recognize and develop their unique abilities. We support this by providing everyone with the necessary tools, skills, input, opportunities, and knowledge to succeed. Sometimes, individuals need assistance in discovering that their voices deserve to be heard, regardless of their status in society. Helping people uncover their strength and value is crucial for creating positive change in their daily lives.
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Name: Yahaira Arreola-Rodriguez
Position: Case Manager/FSS
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: June 5, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: April 3 / Palo Alto, CA
About You: I’m a mom to a 4-year-old girl and a 1-year-old Maltipoo named Bonnie. Chloe and Bonnie are my daily motivation to keep working towards my goals.
Favorite Quote: “Well Done is Better than Well Said” -Benjamin Franklin
Interests or Hobbies: Exercising, applying makeup, spending time with my daughter, listening to music, working, and cleaning.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: I am a prime example of someone who realized that I have the power and control to change my life. When I share my story with my clients, not only do they relate to it, but they also become motivated to achieve the results they desire. If I could do it with no support, they can succeed with the help of the FSS Programs.
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Name:
Winston Taw
Position: Case Manager/DHSHFH
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 24, 2023
Birth date and Birthplace: November 14 / Burma
About You: Family is important.
Favorite Quote: Only the poor spend money they don’t have to look rich
Interests or Hobbies: Biking
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Amazing people doing Amazing things–Because we are
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