Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Johnson.
Hi Debbie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I have always had a passion for helping others. For several years, I worked with an amazing organization called Hunger Busters, which focused on serving food to homeless encampments. It was a great experience, and I learned so much about the realities of homelessness in my community.
In 2008, I decided to transition to a new organization called The Bridge, which provides meals to those experiencing homelessness through The Stewpot. This was an incredible opportunity for me, and I immediately felt at home serving breakfast to guests Monday through Friday. On Thursdays, after the meal service, I am joined by a friend at the Stewpot handing out mail to the guests that use Stewpot as their address.
Throughout my years of community service, I have learned that there is nothing more rewarding than helping those in need. It has taught me the importance of empathy, kindness, and perseverance and has allowed me to develop my communication and problem-solving skills.
When I’m not volunteering, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and exploring the outdoors. I believe that everyone has the power to make a difference in the world, and I hope to continue inspiring others to get involved in community service and volunteer work.
Overall, I am incredibly grateful for my experiences with Hunger Busters and The Bridge, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in my community.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My experience has not only been smooth but uplifting. Some of the guests are mentally challenged, but if there are ever any “incidents,” they are brief and quickly addressed by the expert staff and safety officers.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My brief professional background quickly transitioned to serving as a full-time mother to two growing boys and homemaker for my husband, David, of forty-seven years.
I have always worked with people. Early on, I worked as a bridal consultant for Dallas’ Neiman Marcus–working with customers who became friends at their happiest moments. Following that, a career at the national firm Political Research–publisher of encyclopedias on US Presidents and world governments.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
The sole daughter in a family with 3 brothers. It’s probably no surprise that I was a “Tom Boy” who rode horses, English hunter-jumper, and rivaled my siblings in their ability to throw a mean spiral. I attended a non-denominational girls’ school for all 12 years and maintain many friendships with former classmates to this day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thestewpot.org
