We are excited to welcome many new faces to the LGBT Life Center! This week, we’re excited to introduce Leah, Tyler, and Jennifer!
Leah Raisor (she/her/hers)
Senior Services Specialist
Where’d you come from and what’d you do there?
I worked for Chesapeake Human Services where I conducted investigations for child welfare. There, I was an investigator for child abuse and neglect and helped hundreds of families obtain the resources and support they needed for their families. Previously, I worked in an elementary school as a Therapeutic Day Treatment Counselor, where I worked with children with dual diagnosis and assisted teachers and staff with crisis de-escalation.
How did you become interested in working at the LGBT Life Center?
I found out about the LGBT Life Center from a previous co-worker I worked with. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, but I had never worked with the “50 and Better” population. The idea of bringing my passion for the community and working with a diverse population really excited me about the position.
What’s an interesting thing about you that most people don’t know?
In high school, I used to row crew, where my team made it all the way to the state championships!
What excites you most about being at the LGBT Life Center?
I am most excited to work for an agency where I can be open and my complete self.
Rapid Fire…what is your favorite…
• Animal – Llamas/Alpacas
• Color – Red
• Song/Music – I really listen to anything but am anxiously waiting for Fletcher’s new album.
• Movie – Fried Green Tomatoes
• Hobby – Being outside – hiking, kayaking, or sitting on the beach with a good book!
Tyler (they/them)
Marketing & PR Manager
Where’d you come from and what’d you do there?
Before moving to Hampton Roads, I lived in Indianapolis and led the Marketing & Design department at an AIDS Service Organization. For my undergrad, I spent time in art school before switching and focusing on social sciences with an emphasis in studying HIV trends in urban populations.
I’m here to help you with…
All things marketing & graphic design.
How did you become interested in working at the LGBT Life Center?
I learned about the LGBT Life Center shortly before joining, but I was excited to join a team that focuses on providing an affirming space for the community and excited to join a team that uplifts BIPOC and LGBTQ+ voices.
What’s an interesting thing about you that most people don’t know?
When I’m not in the office working, I’m probably working on a side hustle or exploring someplace new in nature!
What excites you most about being at the LGBT Life Center?
I’m excited to expand our programming and marketing to get more folks in the door. We hold such an amazing space in the community and I can’t wait to see the agency continue to grow and adapt to serve our LGBTQ+ fam.
Rapid Fire…what is your favorite…
• Animal – Giraffes!
• Color – Purple
• Song/Music – Everything from Stevie Nicks to BLACKPINK…
• TV Show/Movie – Futurama
• Hobby – Photography/Making art/making candles/reading/hiking
Jennifer Eren (she/her/hers)
Housing Specialist
Where’d you come from and what’d you do there?
Before joining the Life Center, my work in Human Services began at ForKids. There, I worked as the Senior Supervisor of the Regional Housing Crisis Hotline. The hotline provided me with insight on an even bigger need; the lack of accessibility to safe and affordable housing. I believed my skill set would be more impactful acting as an advocate on behalf of the families, so I joined the housing team!
I’m here to help you with…
All your housing needs! Through my work as a Housing Specialist, I have been able to cultivate and maintain positive relationships with landlords to successfully house clients. I am experienced in Fair Housing, RRH, HQS certified, SSVF, Rapid Resolution and more!
How did you become interested in working at the LGBT Life Center?
There are so many opportunities as a helper in this field. I wanted to utilize my skill set to assist my community. I wanted to be one of the many voices advocating for our people and population.
What’s an interesting thing about you that most people don’t know?
I hate ketchup!
What excites you most about being at the LGBT Life Center?
Being able to use my skills as a helper!
Rapid Fire…what is your favorite…
• Animal – Dog
• Color – Black
• Song/Music – You Gotta Be by Des’Ree
• TV Show/Movie – The Office
• Hobby – Doing nails
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