Supportive Housing and Health Services, Southern CA
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: 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: 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: 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: 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: Aseniq Shahid-Williams
Position: Community Health Worker
LifeSTEPS Anniversary Date: April 28, 2025
Birth date and Birthplace: December 14, Los Angeles
About You: I am a 25 year old UCLA alum from Palmdale, CA with a BS degree in Human Biology and Society with a minor in African-American Studies. I previously worked in public health/health education for 2.5 years before joining the LifeSTEPS team. I currently live in the SF Valley with my girlfriend, our 14 year old Shih-Poo named Onyx, and our 6 year old Siberian Cat named Lilo.
Favorite Quote: “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” – Audre Lorde
Interests or Hobbies: Reading! (Currently reading the game of thrones series). Going to concerts/festivals. Puzzles. I also collect magnets and shot glasses from places I’ve visited.
Favorite LifeSTEPS Value and Why: Empowerment: My favorite LifeSTEPS value is “empowerment” because it emphasizes putting each individual first by giving them the resources they need to be successful and make their own choices. I love this approach because it gives autonomy to the individual rather than taking power away from them by assuming we “know best” as healthcare professionals.
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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: 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: 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: 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 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.
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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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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:
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
