Life’s mission: to be love and peace and to model the love of Divine Mother and offer tools of empowerment to all women.

Work: I have owned Judi Woods Insurance Agency in Fort Myers for 30 years. In 2000, I became the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Footsteps to the Future (FootstepsToTheFuture.org). This unique mentoring, tutoring and self-sufficiency program is for young women that are in the Southwest Florida foster care system or have recently aged out (Foster care only provides services and programs for children up to age 18.).

Proudest Achievements: learning the power of forgiveness.

Expectations for the Future: I hope that everyone sees and appreciates the value and importance of teaching by example, promoting education and a positive work ethic, and of seeing the ripple effect of their own behavior on not just those around them, but also our entire planet.

Favorite App: I have a terrible sense of direction, which is why my favorite app is Google Maps, which keeps me from getting lost.

Favorite websites: Mentor.org, Amazon.com.

Local causes supported: Footsteps to the Future

Favorite thing about Natural Awakenings: It features local people and directs us to who does what in our community regarding health and general well-being, and it supports positive community activities and environmental issues.

Most frequented healthy food restaurant: Senor Tequila’s Fine Mexican Grill, Blu Sushi and O’mei Chinese Cuisine.

How do you invest in your community? I advocate for youth and their human rights, especially those at risk, as well as those who have no voice.

Favorite quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”—Margaret Mead

What are you doing to be the change you want to see in the world? I am living my life in such a way that I express love, hope, tolerance and non-judgment. I embrace diversity and loving kindness in not only my actions, but also in my thoughts. My purpose in life is to love and be loved; so I have chosen to listen to the small, yet powerful voice in my heart and to follow a path of service. I had a remarkable teacher and mentor—my mother, Peg—who taught me about the power of unconditional love; it was such a gift to feel so loved. By sharing the gift of love and a big heart with my family of amazing young women in Footsteps to the Future, I am being that change I wish to see in the world. I am so grateful.