Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabrielle Johnson.
Hi Gabrielle, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From a very young age, I knew I was called to something greater, even if I didn’t yet have the words to fully understand it. That sense of purpose followed me into adulthood, but it wasn’t until later that I truly grasped the depth of that calling. Through prayer and a meaningful conversation with a close friend who trusted me enough to share a deeply personal struggle she was facing, I experienced a defining moment. In listening to her story, I realized the responsibility and calling placed on my life was bigger than me, and it was time to step forward.
In 2006, I founded Face to Face Enrichment Center in response to that moment and the clear need I saw in the community. What began in Louisiana as a step of faith has grown into a multi-state organization committed to serving, empowering, and transforming lives. Today, Face to Face operates four locations in Louisiana (two in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Hammond) and two locations in Texas (Dallas and Houston).
The journey has been marked by both challenges and growth, but each season has reaffirmed my purpose. Face to Face is a testament to what can happen when compassion meets action and faith is put into motion. I’m grateful for how far we’ve come and excited about the impact still ahead.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. There were several moments along the way when I genuinely thought I might have to close the doors. Building and sustaining a nonprofit requires faith, resilience, and endurance, especially during seasons when resources are uncertain and the pressure feels overwhelming.
One of the greatest challenges has been navigating the world of grants and funding – waiting, hoping, complying, and sometimes doing everything right only to hear “no” or face unexpected delays. That uncertainty can be exhausting, particularly when people and communities are depending on you.
Another difficult reality has been learning that not everyone you try to help will honor your heart or your intentions. I’ve experienced deep hurt from individuals I poured into, people I believed in, who ultimately betrayed my trust. Along that journey, I’ve also lost friendships I never imagined losing. Those moments were painful and, at times, isolating.
What surprised me most was the lack of support from family and friends in certain seasons. That was one of the hardest truths to accept. However, God met me in that gap through the support of strangers, people who saw the vision, believed in the mission, and showed up in ways I never expected. Many of those strangers became pillars, partners, and lifelong supporters.
Despite the struggles, every challenge strengthened my resolve. The road has been hard, but it has also been deeply refining, and it’s the reason I remain committed to the work today.
We’ve been impressed with Face to Face Enrichment Center, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Face to Face Enrichment Center exists to serve some of the community’s most forgotten and overlooked populations. At our core, we provide mentoring, health education, life skills development, relationship-building skills, street outreach, and academic support to children, youth, young adults, and families who are navigating real-life challenges.
What sets Face to Face apart is that we don’t believe in surface-level solutions. We believe in showing up consistently, meeting people where they are, and walking alongside them through healing and growth. Our programs are relationship-driven and trauma-informed, rooted in trust, accountability, and compassion. We don’t just offer services. We build connections that change lives.
The impact of this work is best told through the voices of those we serve. One former mentee shared simply, “This program saved my life.” Those words remind us why this work matters. A mentor once expressed, “As a mentor at Face to Face, I have not only helped to heal, but I have been healed. As a mentor at Face to Face, I have not only given love, but I’ve received love. As a mentor at Face to Face, I have not only helped others to be delivered, but I’ve been delivered.” That statement captures the heart of our organization. Transformation happens on both sides.
Brand-wise, I am most proud that Face to Face is known for authenticity, impact, and consistency. We are trusted in the communities we serve because we remain present long after the cameras are gone and the funding cycles end. What I want readers to know is that Face to Face is more than an organization, it is a movement rooted in love, purpose, and the belief that every life has value and potential.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that you never truly know who needs you in a given moment. Because of that, I’ve learned the importance of simply showing up, consistently and authentically, the best way you can.
I’ve seen firsthand how one smile, one genuine compliment, or one meaningful conversation can completely change the trajectory of someone’s day or even their life. Impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures; often, it comes from small, intentional moments of kindness and presence.
This journey has taught me that when you show up with compassion and purpose, even in ways that feel simple or ordinary, you are planting seeds that can grow far beyond what you may ever see. And that, to me, is where real change begins.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.facetofacecenter.org/
- Instagram: the_facetoface
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaceToFaceEnrichmentCenter/
