River City Six: Mike Johnson
Open Door Mission (www.opendoormission.org) 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. Mike Johnson is Open Door Mission’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
How did you get started in the organization?
I was looking for something that would match my skill set with the opportunity to help others in a meaningful way. Most opportunities required a move to one of the coasts. After praying for several months, an opportunity at Open Door Mission appeared on a job board.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Having to lay people off. In the corporate world, profits are what matter and some companies sacrifice talented, good people to meet a number.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I sat for and passed the CPA examination on my first try after being out of college for eight years. This opened some doors for me to progress to where I am now.
Tell us a little about your family.
I am married with three daughters. All three live in Omaha; two are married. We currently have three wonderful grandchildren.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Following Jesus Christ wholeheartedly requires many sacrifices and faith to trust completely in God’s provision. Stepping into full-time ministry at Open Door Mission is the current step of faith in which I am engaged.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Being outside, hiking, kayaking, and playing with the grandkids.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I enjoy cooking and make really good runzas.
What are you the most proud of?
Our team at Open Door Mission. I know firsthand the sacrifices people go through to work here. They selflessly give of their time, talent and treasure to help those who need help and direction in this world.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never quit; do the best you can. Only when you quit do you really fail. Everything else is a learning experience.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Faithful.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Forest ranger or trail guide. I love our national parks and the wilderness in general.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I love sharing the Word of God with men going through our programs at Open Door Mission. I love to see their hearts come alive and their lives begin to change into something new.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Good Faith: Being a Christian When Society Thinks You’re Irrelevant and Extreme by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.
What is your favorite movie?
The Last of the Mohicans or The Patriot.
What is your favorite TV show?
Currently it’s The Selection. Those in our Armed Forces deserve all our thanks for the sacrifices they make for our country.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
I enjoy Bonefish Grill for dine in, and for pizza it’s La Casa Pizzaria.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Via email at mjohnson@opendoormission.org or visit our website at www.opendoormission.org.