Resilient Empathy in the Face of Ridicule with Letitia Hanke

February 1, 2023

“There are people that need you, and you have a chance to change a life absolutely forever, just like mine was. Young people are going through so much, and all they really need is just, you know, one person to tell them that they’re capable of so much more in life.” -Letitia Hanke, President/CEO of ARS Roofing, Gutters, and Solar and Founder/President of The LIME Foundation.

As a child, Letitia Hanke experienced bullying for her skin color. As an adult, she faced it again, as well as judgment for being a woman in charge of a construction company. Despite the obstacles in her way, she triumphed, creating a thriving business and a vital nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children who experience bullying.

Letitia is a shining example of resilience in the face of discrimination. She not only created a successful career for herself but gives back to her community, including children, teens, and seniors in need of love and guidance. Her LIME Foundation reaches seniors in need of community, disadvantaged youth through music, and students seeking a career in the trades.

Listen as Letitia shares her story, from a musical career to a life in the trades.

Topics discussed in this interview:

• Letitia’s early life and the circumstances that shaped her
• Her experience with bullying
• Transitioning from a career in music to construction
• Overcoming not just sexism, but racism
• ARS Roofing today
• Letitia’s nonprofit, The LIME Foundation
• Training the next generation of tradespeople
• Crafting a team who cares
• Success stories
• The generational gap in skilled labor
• Rapid-fire questions

Email Letitia at letitia@arsroofing.com and visit The LIME Foundation to learn more and get involved.