Peggy Weisbrodt LaPorte ’68 was nominated for the Alumni Spotlight by the former mayor of the city of Federal Way and Washington State Representative, Ms. Linda Kochmar, who took time to nominate Peggy because of impact that she has had on the area and her significance as a role model public servant.

Peggy is the founder of FUSION (Friends United to Shelter the Indigent, Oppressed and Needy), a volunteer based organization in Federal Way, Washington. The organization started over 25 years ago with 10 volunteers and has grown to over 200. It now owns and maintains 19 fully furnished homes and condominiums that shelter homeless families in Federal Way and Tacoma. Her nominator says, “When government funding tightened... Peggy saw a possibility of a niche market for selling donated furniture to support the efforts of Fusion. Not only has the furniture store become successful, but this year the group was able to purchase their own building called the ‘Fusion Boutique,’ which has been featured on major TV stations in Seattle.”

Peggy has an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Cincinnati, and has attended the Interior Design Program at Highline College. She is married with four children and lives in Federal Way, WA.

Peggy was inducted into the 2017 Badin Hall of Honor for her efforts. Listening to her speak during that event was truly inspirational.

Occupation:
Founder of FUSION - Volunteer
Web Addresses:
www.fusionfederalway.org and www.fusiondecorboutique.com

What are you passionate about?
FUSION: An all-volunteer nonprofit that provides transitional housing with support services to homeless families, particularly women and their children who have suffered from domestic violence and loss of a home. FUSION offers hope, provides a furnished home, and case management services so that families can become stable and self-sufficient in permanent housing.

Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by the work of our volunteers who care so much about helping others. Each has a unique gift to share whether it is in a leadership role, accounting, fundraising, grant writing, technology, design, carpentry, home repair work, event planning, public relations, etc. Approximately 200 volunteers give 20,000 hours of time volunteering annually for FUSION! That is inspirational!

What led you to your career/business?
I was initially inspired by our parish priest who would constantly remind us of our need to help the homeless. This led me to search for a means to make a difference. In response, I believe I was spiritually called to pursue this mission or purpose in my life and I am forever grateful to have been blessed with this endeavor. I would not have been able to do this work alone or without the love, support, and prayers of so many, especially my family. I have pursued many careers in my life but my greatest achievement is my volunteer work.

What is your favorite quote?
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, its the only thing that ever has."~Margaret Mead

What is your best advice for current Badin students?
Be confident and know that anything is possible. Life may lead you in many directions over the years. Be passionate, persistent, and find your purpose in life. If you believe in your dream, your purpose, and you pursue it, you can find great happiness.

If you could have lunch with anyone living or dead, who would it be?
Mother Teresa. She is a role model for living a simple life but a purposeful life.

What is one thing you’ve learned while at Badin that you still use and value today?
To think beyond myself and to serve others.