Letitia Hanke

A small-town girl from Lake County, California, Letitia Hanke grew up dreaming of a music career. She attended Sonoma State University for 4 years, where she majored in music and performing arts. While all the cards pointed toward a career in performing and recording arts, life had different plans which led to a successful 20-year career as an entrepreneur.

Shortly after taking a receptionist position at a local roofing company during her junior year of college, Letitia was offered the opportunity to serve as the company’s office manager. Not one to shy away from a challenge, she worked countless hours learning the ropes. Noticing her strong work ethic and drive, the company’s owner asked Letitia to consider buying the business. For the next four years, she rolled up her sleeves and learned the business from the inside out. She worked as a roofer, earned her roofing contractor’s license, and started her own business—ARS Roofing & Gutters—in 2004.

Letitia’s vision to advocate for at-risk youth and the marginalized community was inspired by her and her son’s adversities: both were bullied as young children. In 2015 she founded The LIME Foundation, a nonprofit focused on three areas: mentoring and vocational training in the construction trades; education—specifically music education—and performing arts for at-risk youth, and assistance to seniors, including programs focused on health. To support this community work, ARS Roofing & Gutters donates up to 5% of the net profit from each job to The LIME Foundation.

Among the many accolades Letitia has received over the years, she has been recognized with Spirit of Sonoma Award, Small Business of the Year Award from California Governor Gavin Newsom, Entrepreneur of the Year Award by National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and Community Child Care Council of Sonoma County’s Champion of Children Empowering Youth Award. She was also featured on two Emmy Winning TV Shows- The Kelly Clarkson Show and Mike Rowe's Returning the Favor.

Letitia’s unwavering commitment to both her business and nonprofit reflects a deep passion for uplifting others, especially those facing challenges like her own. She embodies the spirit of resilience and compassion, making a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals and setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart and purpose.