Living a Life With Purpose | Jodi O’Donnell-Ames

My talk is a reminder that dreams can come true at any age! As the founder of a unique non profit, Hope Loves Company, I have learned this truth first hand. My life’s mission began as the result of becoming a widow at the age of 35. My grief and depression took a turn after 911 when I stopped feeling sorry for myself and began county my blessings again. I never thought that by writing down a simple phrase in 2007, Hope Loves Company, that the trajectory of my life would change for the better. Who knew that at 51, I would be fortunate enough to be a founder, writer, documentary producer, speaker and more. My self motto is, “A no one, with no connections, no money and no true talents can bring positive change if persistence, determination, sweat and the best intentions prevail.” One positive step can ignite a mission and success can be achieved at any age! Jodi O’Donnell-Ames is a certified teacher, writer, massage therapist, member of Union Fire Co. and Rescue Squad and tireless advocate for Lou Gehrig’s disease, or ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). She is also the founder and president of Hope Loves Company, a non-profit organization committed to helping the children and grandchildren of ALS patients. She has authored two books, Someone I Love Has ALS and The Stars that Shine. She has been a People Magazine “Hero Among Us” and was recently featured on the cover of Real Woman magazine. She lives a simple, but philanthropically hectic life with her husband Benton in N.J. and has three amazing young adult children.