What a remarkable woman of empathy and experience! Our
newest addition here at Van Gogh's Palette -Raine Johns hired and our CEO- is indeed inspirational
and carries herself well. I believe she will represent us with great expertise.
First and foremost she brings fortitude to the table. She has, “been there and
done that” one might say, in the mental illness field. Not only does she have a
personal side to her journey, in that her daughter has been with PTSD from the
mere age of 6. She currently holding down a job and attending college in San
Diego. Raine learned throughout the experience how to be a friend to her daughter
and to the people living with mental illness.
Ms. Johns comes to us from the Pinellas/Pasco Public Defender’s
office with a 13 year career in an advocacy role for people living with mental
illness. Additionally, she has witnessed
countless Baker Acts implemented, many unjustly. She worked diligently to see
the release of such individuals without a voice, or means of defense in an,
often times, debilitating system of unfairness. She knows the ropes, she is
well connected, and is extremely committed to maintaining the fidelity of
Vincent House and the foundation laid by Dianne and Elliott Steele. I, for one,
say a great big thank you not only to her, but to the Board of Directors for
their selection.
I know Ms. Johns has her work cut out for her with our three
current locations. However, being from Pasco County I stand very excited that
she also has a vision for a Vincent House model in Pasco County, as well. We
know she is the perfect woman to help us transform more lives of those who have
mental illness.
