The United Way of Central Alberta released its inaugural "Top 40 Under 40" list.
It highlights 40 outstanding individuals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions to their communities through their professional and personal achievements.
One of the names listed is the Mustard Seed’s humble shelter manager Dwayne Kraushar.
Coming from Winnipeg, with a BA in psychology, Kraushar moved to Central Alberta and started with the Mustard Seed in 2019 as the overnight support worker.
Six years later, he is still here and now as manager is making huge strides for the shelter.
At the time when he joined the shelter, it only operated overnight, providing just the basic emergency services like a bed for the night and maybe a meal.
With the transition to a 24/7 operation, Kraushar is able to do more for the community and makes sure that the team is involved so they can truly assist those in need.
“With 24/7 services, they know that this is a place that’s safe, comfortable, but also, we’re a housing-focused shelter. This is a place for me to get out of being unhoused. I know I can go to the Mustard Seed for safety and also the staff care about me. They're asking me, hey, what can we do to help you get out of this place?” says Kraushar about those who use the Mustard Seed’s services.
Under his guidance, the shelter has successfully helped 121 out of 330 unique individuals transition into permanent housing.
“The changes that I've implemented with the staff’s help have led to being nominated as 40 Under 40 for Central Alberta, but it's credit where credit is due — it's a team effort,” says Kraushar.
Kraushar took a moment to celebrate his achievement with his wife and two young kids, but now it’s back to work and the goal of ending homelessness.
“My big plans that I've been wanting, and we've been exploring as an organization, is for more housing in Red Deer that is Mustard Seed-run — either permanent supportive housing or more affordable housing that we can own and operate.”
To see the other honourees and to read the full bio on Kraushar, visit the United Way website.
To learn more about the Mustard Seed, or to experience their podcast "Hope Grown" visit their website.
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