Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Sharp.
Ashley, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I still can’t believe that I get to lead an organization as amazing as Dwell with Dignity. Throughout my nonprofit career, I have been following the amazing work Dwell with Dignity has been doing, and have continued to be inspired by their creativity, innovation, and love of those they serve.
I actually began my career as a dancer and choreographer, but as I became more exposed to the operations side of theater and dance, I realized my true calling was nonprofit management. I graduated with my Master’s Degree in Public Administration, at the same time working for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Nasher Sculpture Center, then eventually, Dwell with Dignity!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every road has struggles! There was a time when I experienced burnout so severe in my career that I began to question my path and considered other options for how I was spending my life. I even thought about going to culinary school to be a professional baker. My commitment to my passion to serving others was affirmed after joining an amazing civic group called the Mayor’s Star Council, which connects young leaders in Dallas to the city and to the issues that we as citizens need to address to create a thriving Dallas. This organization, along with Dwell with Dignity, has changed my life. I feel reinvigorated, connected to my community, and ready to work with other amazing leaders to create lasting change.
Please tell us about Dwell with Dignity.
Dwell with Dignity is a nonprofit like no other – we design and install complete home interiors for families who desperately need an environment that will support health and wellness. We empower families to lead their best lives and to thrive in a safe, functional, and beautiful environment. Think of it like Extreme Home Makeover for formerly housing and job insecure women and children in our community! Dwell with Dignity goes deep, not wide – first, we meet with every family that is recommended to us from their previous nonprofit agency, in their new home, to figure out what they like, how they use their home and their dreams for themselves and their children. Many of these women are fleeing domestic violence, job loss, or pervasive homelessness – they have never been asked what their favorite color is, let alone have a full design consultation for their home. Then, along with our talented team of volunteers, we create one-of-a-kind spaces for each family, including custom art and furniture, actually made by our volunteers! Each family not only comes home to a custom-designed space with all furniture, decor, and art- we also provide all kitchen supplies, toiletries, extra towels and sheets, an iron, two weeks’ worth of groceries, and a hot meal for the family on their first night.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
There have been so many amazing moments in my career, but honestly, I am most proud of how Dwell with Dignity, lead by our amazing staff and board, have responded during this pandemic. In a time of uncertainty, we were able to thrive. We launched a new web series, began private shopping experiences for customers in our warehouse, and were able to open our pop-up shop, Thrift Studio (which is open now!), with the highest sales numbers we have ever seen. It is one thing to thrive in the good times – it is another to show resilience, strength, and innovation when the landscape looks bleak. Dwell with Dignity is able to continue transforming homes and lives in record numbers thanks to this dedication and passion for our mission and those we serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dwellwithdignity.org
- Phone: 2145997974
- Email: ashleysharp@dwellwithdignity.org
- Instagram: dwellwithdignity
- Facebook: dwellwithdignity
- Other: www.thriftstudio.com
Image Credit:
Lance Selgo
My Sweet Charity
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