We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeanne Albaugh and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jeanne, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
What inspires me is knowing that hope and forward action really work. I’ve been to the lowest of lows and I’ve experienced major struggles. What got me to where I am today is being willing to accept help from others. I have a deep longing to support anyone who is less fortunate and struggling because I know what’s possible. What inspired me to start a non-profit was the idea of building a team of compassionate, caring people with the drive to be changemakers. I have witnessed the goodness that exists within people and I want to shine a light on it so it expands.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The truth is, Showering Love came together very easily. When God or a higher power has called you to bring a mission to fruition, it comes together very easily. Showering Love does not belong to me or anyone. I just get to be the vessel to bring love and hope to those that are less fortunate. I love waking up every morning knowing I have a purpose: to restore dignity and hope to people who are in a dark place in their lives, like I once was. Showering Love is a light to those in darkness. We are here to remind them they matter and they are not forgotten. When I was homeless it felt like it didn’t matter whether I was alive or dead. People truly breathed life back into me. Now, it’s my turn to give back and help others find their way home. I think what sets Showering Love apart is the love and compassion the team has created to share among themselves and with the guests. There is no judgement ONLY love.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First I would want to take them to see Grace, the shower bus, in action. This way, they could experience the lives of the guests we serve being transformed. On another day, I would take my guest to Miami. We’d walk along South Beach to experience all the wonderful restaurants and shops. I would also take them to see the Coral Castle so they could learn some history and see something truly unique. A good trip must include some beach time, so I’d take them to either Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood Beach where they would enjoy the tranquility of the water and the breathtaking views. Finally, I’d love to take my guest out on a catamaran for a day of snooking and sliding into the ocean.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several people I’d like to acknowledge. I have been honored to have three spiritual mentors in my life. I wouldn’t be here without them. Sonia Robinson, Jennfer Sakaris and Carla Zamudio-Dolan. They have each had a huge impact on my personal and professional life. From public speaking to accepting myself more deeply, I admire and look up to each of these ladies. They embody grace, integrity and are each change makers. There was a time when my heart felt like Humpty Dumpty, broken and scattered, but with all their support and love I can finally say, my heart has been put back together again! They believed in me, listened to my cries and encouraged me. I’ve also had a lot of support from my family and the community. My son RC played a BIG part in the beginning of my journey. He gave me the HOPE of being a mom again. It truly took a village to help get me to where I am today. I am and will be forever grateful to everyone who has played a part in helping me have the AMAZING life I have today!
Website: www.ShoweringLove.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/showeringlove_sflo/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/showeringlove13
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/showeringlove
Image Credits
Max Sadik