Photo by Emilio Cortez

Celebrating Black History Month - Chanell Scott, Housing Stabilization Manager 

As we recognize Black History Month, I want to take a moment to reflect on my own journey; one shaped by perseverance, resilience, and lived experiences that come with being African American in the United States.

I was born and raised in California, in Inglewood; a city rich with culture, resilience, and Black excellence. I am the daughter of two African American parents whose own journeys shaped the foundation of who I am today. My mother was born in Louisiana, my father in Oklahoma, and my ancestral roots trace back largely to Nigeria. Their histories, sacrifices, and strength live within me and guide the work I do every day.

 Growing up, I learned early the importance of community, perseverance, and showing up for others. Those values naturally led me to social services, where my passion for supporting people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives continues to grow. For the past 4 years and counting, I have had the privilege of working at LAFH. I began my journey here during as a Housing Navigator, learning firsthand the complexities of housing insecurity and the systemic barriers our communities face. From there, I moved into Housing Stabilization, and I now serve as a Housing Stabilization Manager.

 Each role has deepened my understanding of advocacy, leadership, and the importance of culturally responsive care. As a Black woman in this field, my lived experience allows me to connect with clients in meaningful ways, offering not only resources but understanding, dignity, and hope. Representation matters especially in systems that have historically underserved Black and Brown communities and I take pride in being part of the change.

 Education has also been a critical part of my journey. I am a proud USC MSW alumna graduating in 2020, and I am currently an ACSW gaining clinical experience toward my LCSW. My goal is to continue serving individuals and families struggling with mental health challenges, using both clinical skills and cultural humility to support healing and stability in the community.

 Like many Black professionals, I learned early on that I would have to work twice as hard and push twice as far to be seen, heard, and taken seriously. My path has not been easy. Every step forward required discipline, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in myself, even in spaces where I was often questioned before I was trusted. I’ve encountered countless moments where my presence alone invited assumptions on how I got here, whether I was qualified, or if my success was “earned.” Questions like “How did you make it to this role?” are often asked with surprise, as if hard work, dedication, and talent couldn’t possibly be the full answer. The truth is simple: I worked for it. I continue to work for it.

 My Black history is not just something I reflect on during one month of the year—it is something I live every day through my work, my family, and my commitment to uplifting my community. I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me, and I am proud to contribute to a legacy of resilience, service, and care.

 My story is one of resilience, but it is also a reminder. A reminder that representation matters, that our success is not accidental, and that Black excellence is built on generations of strength, even when the road is steep.