The Power of One      

One step must start each journey; One word starts a prayer; One hope will raise your spirits; One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom; One heart can know what's true; One life can make the difference; It's up to you!   ~ Author Unknown 

When Therese Leone joined the Lazarus House Advisory Board she jumped into action by serving on the three major event committees; the Golf Tournament, Hike for Hope, and Sharing our Bounty dinner.  Bridget Sheehy, Event Manager, shared, "Therese works in the banking industry and is able to introduce us to her many connections to donate auction items for the golf tournament and Sharing our Bounty dinner. Before  the Hike for Hope walk  she collected money with the Enterprise Bank team and even encouraged the staff to volunteer on the day of the event. I often see Therese around town, she is a natural networker and dedicated to helping our organization. Although very busy she always makes time for Lazarus House."

Therese has been aware of the work that Lazarus House has been doing in the community from the start when it was a five-bed emergency shelter. Since that time she has been impressed with its growth and diversity of services. However, with a soup kitchen, three thrift stores, food pantry and four housing facilities, Capernaum Place remains a favorite. Therese describes the transitional housing service as an "essential part of the programs,  that allows the residents time and space to create a fresh beginning. The staff at Capernaum Place encourages the guests and through workshops guides them in a new, positive direction." Therese likes the fact that Lazarus House doesn't just look at solving issues concerning homelessness and hunger, but also focuses on every aspect of the residents life so that they can begin to take the steps to permanently move away from poverty.

Through her enthusiasm and boundless energy she recruited a Enterprise Bank team, where she works during the day as Branch Relationship Manager, to volunteer not only at the Hike for Hope, but also once a month they help out at the food pantry. Her office also initiated a diaper drive which extended to other bank branches in the area. Her next goal is to hold a food drive.

Her influence at the bank and in the community hasn't gone unnoticed. She has become an inspiration for people who believe one person can accomplish anything. When asked who inspires her, Therese responded, "The people who donate their time and money to help others are the ones that inspire me . . . . with their big hearts, open arms, and endless love."