LeAnne Carlson describes herself as motivated, energetic, spiritual and hopeful. This year she brings those character traits and her many skills and abilities to the children and families of Brightmoor by joining the staff of City Mission, full time.

“God just taps you on the shoulder and either you’re paying attention and you’re ready to hear it or you’re not,” Carlson said. After a 13-year career in real estate, she takes on the responsibilities of City Mission property manger, book keeper and Fall Gala coordinator. “I’m excited about it,” she said.

Carlson felt God’s tap on her shoulder for a very long time regarding her involvement in Brightmoor. She became involved with City Mission as a volunteer tutor eight years ago. “I thought it was a great place for kids to be able to go,” she said. “It’s amazing in less than 10 years what they’ve accomplished.”

As her student grew, Carlson progressed from a tutor to a mentor and currently has two mentoring students. She continued volunteering in fund raisers and at the City Mission Open House, but she still felt a tug to do more.

“I think it’s just been kind of a long draw,” she said. “Even last year before the gala, I felt this need for them to have more help.”

She made her decision to join City Mission full-time during Thanksgiving last year and was surprised by the reaction she received from others. “People who know me were not the least bit surprised,” she said.  “They were like, ‘you love it down there. It’s great to see that you‘re going for something you believe in.’”

Carlson believes in the message of hope City Mission offers to the Brightmoor community. She has witnessed first hand the difference it has made in her life and wants to play a more integral part in giving that message to Brightmoor children and families.

She also has a message for everyone who is thinking about getting more involved.
“Step up, just do it, you’ll have a blast,” she said. “God’s definitely got his hand at City Mission.”

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