DaytonDailyNews.com

If there has been a particularly strong mentor in your life, what was it about them that helped you make a difference?

I have had many strong mentors in my life. The strongest mentor is my mother. She is an incredible woman who can do anything and has taught me strong core values. I remember her working three jobs when I was younger so that we didn't go without. She has an incredible sense of loyalty and a work ethic that is second to none. She's always been my biggest fan as well as harshest critic — all so that I could be the best person I could possibly be. She's been there with cheers, tissues and the occasional slap upside the head — which was always well deserved.

I have also been mentored through life by a host of wonderful women who have taught me life lessons as well as to appreciate myself. There are those that have been full of thoughts, guidance and wisdom, and then those who were simply there to listen to me talk my way through a situation to discover that I really did know the answer all along.

Finally, my daughter gives me daily inspiration. She is the true epitome of the phrase, "out of the mouths of babes." She provides laughter, tears and those "Ah ha!" moments through her simple wisdom and outlook on life.

Tell us about a time in your life, an experience, or situation that inspired you.

I have been continually inspired by the daily events involving Hannah's Treasure Chest. I've been challenged beyond what I ever dreamed imaginable. I am inspired by the giving nature of so many in the community who have supported us along the way. Those who have been there when I have a great need and those who have been there as a consistent support network.

I am inspired daily by the volunteers who give tirelessly so that those without will have, those who scour garage sales looking for items to fill our empty shelves, those who spread the word and are the best advocates ever for a small local non-profit and those who come together for one another in time of need and enjoyment, whether it be a death of a family member, the diagnosis of a life-threatening disease, a new baby or a wonderful achievement.

I am inspired by the stories we hear of how we helped and made a difference in the lives of so many in the Miami Valley. Those who have broken the cycle of poverty and are now donating to help another. Those that have been inspired by their gift from another who did not know them.

We have so many wonderful inspirations and stories at Hannah's, which are added to our repertoire on a daily basis. It's hard to nail it down to just one specific time, experience or situation.

Do you have any advice for younger women?

Give to give, not to get. If you give without expecting to get, the universe will give back to you tenfold. Give of yourself to something that you believe in strongly. Give the time and energy needed to make a strong commitment to this cause, expecting nothing in return.

What was your biggest surprise in life?

How quickly life can change. I was in corporate America and then just started helping people less fortunate with all of the "overage" in my life. That one small act grew into a nonprofit that now helps thousands of children each year.

What's the best thing about being a woman?

Is there any one best thing? Shopping, multi-tasking and compassion. Best of all, a woman can do all the things that women naturally do, and they can do most things a man can do, too.