stories connect

Don W. Mann is a former Law Enforcement Officer, Emergency Preparedness Director, Security Specialist with the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), nationally certified Surgical Technologist, Graduate Practical Nurse, an award-winning Real Estate Agent.While in law enforcement Don served as a D.A.R.E. Officer teaching youth to avoid drugs and alcohol and received the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Officer of The Year Award (x2).As a Security Specialist, Don served on the Missouri-1 Disaster Medical Assistance Team on deployments to Hurricane Katrina (2005) and other natural disasters.Despite living out his dream of serving others, his life on the outside was at odds with an internal struggle. Like a lone puzzle piece, he didn’t know where he belonged in the world.A high school dropout who struggled in many areas of life, he just couldn't catch a break. Don endured bullying, rejection, depression, severe cystic acne with minimal social or emotional skills or external support. Struggles that he stuffed came back with a vengeance.In just five short years Don went from a poster employee, dad, husband, son, and friend living the “American Dream”, to the lowest and darkest place of his life. He was alone, in jail, depressed, homeless, and hopeless.But he didn't stay there.One question, “Is this really what life is all about?”, was the spark that ignited the fire that became his life's mission to discover the purpose in hardship, suffering, and pain, hoping one day it could be someone else's life preserver.Don’s life journey has gifted him with visceral relatability with the challenges youth face and the ever growing and complex mission charged to parents, educators, and administrators.You will experience stories of motivation, stories of inspiration, and empowering insight that creates opportunities for transformation.Don’s motto of “Known-Needed-Loved” is rooted in his healing journey to discover his truth in identity, purpose, and significance in life. The result is a presentation that will leave listeners with a fresh perspective of what life can be all about.Seeking, owning, and embracing your truth is directly proportional to the joy, fulfillment, and significance of your life.