Meet Danette Shockley, a civic leader who is driven, compassionate, and a visionary who truly cares about community support and empowerment in Atlanta. Her mission is clear: address food insecurity, combat homelessness, and uplift underserved communities by bridging critical gaps in access to resources. With a deep understanding shaped by personal experience, Danette leads with heart, dignity, and purpose—crafting sustainable solutions and advocating for financial opportunities, nutritious food, and small business support. Danette is dedicated to Doing Something Good, and is the Founder of AZLR CARES!
Learn more about Danette’s story below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
Hands On Atlanta, Habitat for Humanity, Latin American Association, Nicholas House, Hemophilia of Georgia, Girls Scouts of America
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
I truly care about community support, economic empowerment, addressing food insecurity, and combating homelessness in Atlanta. Through AZLR CARES, I'm dedicated to bridging the gaps between low-income and homeless communities and the resources they need for a sustainable lifestyle and independence. Having witnessed the challenges firsthand, I know how essential it is to improve access to vital services, financial opportunities, and nutritious food. I'm passionate about crafting sustainable solutions that uplift underserved communities, support small businesses, and empower individuals to create a bright and stable future.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
What I absolutely love about AZLR CARES is how it creates a genuine, tangible impact in the lives of underserved communities! Whether we're providing food, essential supplies, or connecting people to valuable resources, it's truly heartwarming to witness the direct results of our efforts—families being supported, individuals feeling empowered, and communities becoming stronger. The chance to bridge gaps and assist people on their journey toward sustainability and independence truly fuels my passion and reminds me of why this mission is so meaningful important.
“Through volunteering, I have gained a network of like-minded partners in a mission to rehabilitate Atlanta and make it the best city to live, work and THRIVE! I have also gained valuable knowledge through impact reports and studies of ways community service can change the trajectory of homelessness and poverty.”
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
As a volunteer, I have learned the importance of collecting impact reports and surveys and creating a network of community partners to help fuel the programs we bring to our neighbors. I have also learned how to produce meaningful events and programs to get the resources where they are needed.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
One of the most memorable highlights from Celebrate the Harvest 2024 was inviting everyone to share three things they felt grateful for. Every filled seat, including our youngest participants who were as young as six, brought forth such genuine responses! Some expressed thanks for having a safe place to come together, while others cherished the warmth of a hot meal. Witnessing such heartfelt appreciation truly reminded me of the important mission behind AZLR CARES—to create welcoming spaces filled with belonging, nourishment, and community support for those who need it the most.
Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people,places, things to do, etc.
When I moved to Atlanta in 2009, I viewed it as the next Mecca—a vibrant melting pot where communities could unite with a shared goal: a city where everyone can thrive. Even when I was homeless and on the lookout for opportunities, I saw promise and potential in Atlanta. That belief in a brighter future is still alive in my heart today. I believe we can cultivate a movement—one that inspires unity, empowers our neighborhoods, and ensures that everyone has access to the resources and support needed to achieve stability and self-sufficiency.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Seek opportunities that fuel your passion. I also enjoy finding trainings and classes that will help me coordinate a volunteer opportunity. Having my family and/or close friends witness their impact will hopefully spark their interest in volunteering. MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK. My best friend said this to me, and it stuck.
Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
I usually volunteer for a weekend at Spring Family Camp for Hemophilia of Georgia during April. I post community service events and resource updates on our site: https://www.azlr-cares.org/azlr-2025-agenda-events. Subscribe to our website for newsletter and other updates.
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
My commitment to Do Something Good comes from my own experiences and a heartfelt desire to make a positive impact in our community. Having faced the tough journey of homelessness myself, I truly understand the challenges many people encounter. That's why AZLR CARES is so passionate about bridging gaps and offering genuine solutions—everything from delicious meals and essential resources to financial empowerment. I wholeheartedly believe in treating everyone with dignity and creating opportunities through collaboration, ensuring that no one feels left behind. Our mission now is to take this even further by launching a Mobile Resource Unit in Atlanta, bringing critical services directly to those who need them most, and together, we can strengthen our city with accessibility, support, and unity.
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