Changemakers and Champions

In this episode, we sit down with two of Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach's most dedicated long-term volunteers — Ron and Maryanne Su. Originally from New Jersey, Ron and Maryanne made Johns Island their home in 2018 and haven't stopped giving back since.From staffing the front desk and carrying food boxes to seniors, to teaching financial literacy to elementary schoolers and caring for toddlers in childcare — this dynamic duo truly does it all. Ron shares a heartwarming story from his financial literacy class that left the entire room in tears, and Maryanne reflects on what it means to be the face volunteers see when neighbors walk through the door.Their commitment, warmth, and passion for community is exactly why we are proud to honor them as this year's Love Your Neighbor Award recipients at our annual Love Your Neighbor Celebration.

Host Jermaine Husser sits down with Parker Smith, Board Member of Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach and Executive Vice President of McAlister-Smith Inc. Parker shares his journey from corporate life in Fort Lauderdale back to Charleston, where he joined his family’s funeral home business and deepened his commitment to community leadership.In this conversation, Parker reflects on servant leadership, the philosophy of giving through time, talent, and treasure, and why investing in your neighbors helps strengthen the entire community.

Building Food Oases in Food DesertsJoin host Jermaine Huser in conversation with Ron Pringle, CEO of the Interfaith Food Shuttle in Raleigh, North Carolina, for an inspiring discussion about transforming communities through food access and empowerment.In this 30-minute episode, Ron shares his deeply personal journey into food security work—from losing his mother as a child and watching his grandmother navigate the food bank system, to serving as a chaplain's assistant in Desert Storm, to nearly three decades of leadership in the anti-hunger movement.

Join host Jermaine Husser for an inspiring conversation with Maryalice Morro, Board Chair of Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach Services, on this episode of Changemakers and Champions.Maryalice shares her powerful journey from Navy officer to healthcare leader to community champion, revealing how a simple family tradition of Sunday dinners sparked a lifelong commitment to service. From organizing meals at Charleston's Crisis Ministries to her current work with Meals on Wheels East Cooper, she demonstrates how food has been the common thread connecting her passion for helping others.In this heartfelt discussion, you'll discover:How the principle "to whom much is given, much is expected" shaped her approach to leadershipThe importance of meeting people where they are, not where you think they should beWhy effective leadership is a "team sport" that requires recognizing both strengths and weaknessesPractical advice for getting started in volunteer work by leading with your passionThe transformative power of showing up and making others feel seen and valuedMaryalice also shares wisdom gained from decades of service—from uncomfortable moments in prison ministry to the joy of delivering meals to homebound seniors—and offers encouragement for anyone sitting on the sidelines wondering how to make a difference.

Meet Lauren Villavasso: Teaching Kids to Change the World Through Service 🌟Welcome to Change Makers and Champions! In this inspiring episode, host Jermaine Huser sits down with Lauren Vasso, a community newcomer from the Baltimore area who's making waves with her family-driven mission to serve others.Lauren shares the powerful story behind THREE incredible initiatives she started with her children:🧱 Mitch Bricks (est. 2017) - Using LEGO to bring joy and creativity to kids in need🐾 Elliot's Arc - Helping families keep their beloved pets during times of hardship👗 Sissy's Closet - Providing clothing and dignity to those facing challengeshttps://www.mitchbricks.com/Discover how Lauren transformed her own childhood struggles into a purpose-driven life, and why she believes teaching children to serve their community early creates lasting change. From volunteering at family homeless shelters to building sustainable community programs, this conversation reveals the heart behind true grassroots impact.

Join host Jermaine Huser in conversation with Yajaira Bess of Berkeley Electric Co-op as she shares her 20-year journey of community leadership. Discover why consistency matters in leadership, how mentoring children sparks lasting change, and practical ways to start giving back in your community. Yajaira reveals the organizations making a difference in the Lowcountry and shares her vision for inspiring the next generation of philanthropists through compassion, gratitude, and leading by example.Make it a great day on purpose.

In this inspiring episode of Change Makers and Champions, host Jermaine Huser sits down with Dean and Sherry Goodwin—philanthropists and community leaders—to explore the true meaning of giving back. Discover how building genuine relationships, thoughtful philanthropy, and a commitment to leadership can transform organizations and communities. The Goodwins share personal stories from their journey, discuss the impact of targeted giving, and offer practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference, whether through time, talent, or treasure. Tune in for heartfelt insights, actionable takeaways, and a celebration of the power of generosity.

In this inaugural episode of Changemakers & Champions, we sit down with Shawn Jenkins from MUSC Children’s Hospital for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about what it truly means to be a community changemaker.Shawn shares insights on leadership, compassion, and giving back, as well as the personal values that drive his lifelong commitment to improving the lives of children and families across the Lowcountry. Together, we touch on meaningful topics—service, purpose, and how each of us can make an impact right where we are.Tune in for a powerful reminder that real change begins with heart. 💙