My name is Latisha. I was born in Russellville, Arkansas, and moved to Little Rock at the age of 10. I am 36 years old, and my journey to Northwest Arkansas began in 2007 when I moved here for college. I remained in the area until I graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. After graduation, I learned I was expecting a child and, as a soon-to-be single mother, made the decision to return to Little Rock. In April 2012, I gave birth to my beautiful, bright-eyed daughter, Londyn. From the moment she entered the world, I knew my purpose was to love, protect, and provide for her at all costs.
I set aside my dream of pursuing a master’s degree and went straight to work, securing a job with Verizon Wireless, where I worked for six years, followed by three years at the Central Arkansas Water. While I was successful in customer service, I knew deep down that my true purpose was greater. I took a leap of faith and pursued a master’s degree in social work. I had always known that I was destined to help people, but I wasn’t sure how it would happen. With prayer, determination, and faith, I applied to the program and was blessed with both a scholarship and a graduate assistantship, which allowed me to pursue my degree debt-free. At that time, I moved back to Fayetteville with my then 10-year-old daughter.
Returning was emotional—I had once considered Fayetteville my second home, a place where I grew spiritually and found a supportive church community. I successfully completed the Master of Social Work program in 2024, a milestone that reaffirmed my calling to serve others. Although my daughter was initially hesitant and insisted that she only wanted to stay for two years, she began to flourish both academically and socially. Eventually, she asked if we could make Fayetteville our permanent home. Her request strengthened my resolve to build a stable future for us here. Yet, despite staying and my accomplishment of earning a master’s degree, we have not yet grown in stability or financial security. This reality has only deepened my determination to create a stronger foundation for both of us.
I was introduced to Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Arkansas by my good friend, Tatrecia, who is also a partner family. Before she shared her story, I had no idea this opportunity existed. With rising costs and changes in the economy, I feared that homeownership was out of reach. Encouraged by her support, I applied—and was accepted. Tatrecia has walked beside me every step of the way, becoming the kind of friend I didn’t know I needed, and soon, we will even be neighbors. For my daughter and me, this home means more than just four walls—it means stability, security, and a true sense of belonging. Since becoming a parent, I have only been able to provide her with apartments. Having a safe, creative space that we can truly call our own will allow her to grow and express herself freely. As a parent, being able to provide a house is a major step toward giving her structure and stability. This home represents not only a fresh start for us in Fayetteville but also an important step in building generational wealth for our family. It will allow us to put down roots and create a lasting foundation for the future.
“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
