River City 6: Victoria Leuthold
Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 2,000 hot, nutritious meals and provides preventive measures to more than 275 people living in poverty. Victoria Leuthold is the Development Director at Open Door Mission.
How did you get started in the organization? – Almost a decade ago, my pastor brought me down to serve as a volunteer for the first time. I enjoyed prepping meals for the kitchen or sandwiches that would be served on the streets for the homeless.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – There was a time when all I wanted to pursue was a career in corporate law. I even attended law school on a full-ride scholarship. However, I began to feel pulled in a very different direction. People looking from the outside in still have a very hard time fathoming why I would leave a legal career to pursue serving the homeless full-time. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – My greatest achievement is being able to align my personal beliefs with my professional abilities. When you can honestly do what you are incredibly passionate about, it no longer feels like work. It is just me being myself in my office, at church, in the community, and at home.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have two children, Jason (9) and Isabella (8), and am very happily married to my supportive and encouraging husband Travis. Travis grew up on a farm in contrast to my upbringing in the big city, so it’s a total country boy meets city girl scenario.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Moving to Omaha from the east coast over 15 years ago. It was a huge culture shock and meant leaving much of what I knew behind. However, it’s also been the most rewarding as I truly enjoy embracing Omaha as home and serving here.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Traveling, reading and music are my all-time favorites. I am often quoted as saying, “anywhere but here.” I love exploring even the smallest of towns and appreciating the quaintness of cute towns as much as I love venturing into big cities.
What are you the most proud of? – My faith, family and heritage.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – My father is infamous for saying, “the sun will still shine tomorrow.” Ultimately, God is in control.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Aside from my work at Open Door Mission, I am currently the Vice-President of the Nebraska Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I love serving an organization that is paving the way for Hispanics/Latinos in the state I have fallen in love with.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Psalms.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Lo Sole Mio Ristorante.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Mother Teresa is an all-time hero, and I imagine we’d probably enjoy giving our food away to those in need.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached via email at vleuthold@opendoormission.org, or visit www.opendoormission.org to learn more about our work in the community.