Welcoming Debbie Thompson as One Way Love’s Next Executive Director

One Way Love is pleased to announce that Debbie Thompson, our current Program Director, will step into the role of Executive Director beginning January 2026. Debbie succeeds Travis Manint, who will be transitioning to a national leadership position as Managing Director of Marketing and Administration with the Community Access National Network (CANN) — a policy institute advancing healthcare access and affordability for vulnerable populations across the United States.

Since joining One Way Love, Debbie has played a pivotal role in strengthening programs that meet youth where they are — operationalizing our mentorship program and training development, deepening collaboration with school counselors, and helping families in crisis find stability and hope. Her steady leadership, operational expertise, and genuine compassion have shaped the culture of One Way Love and built a foundation for continued growth and impact.

“I am both honored and thrilled to step into the role of Executive Director for One Way Love, an organization that holds a special place in my heart. Having dedicated myself to supporting homeless teens and at-risk youth, I am deeply committed to continuing and expanding our mission. In this new capacity, my goals are to foster an environment of growth, innovation, and collaboration. I aim to strengthen our community partnerships, enhance our programs, and ensure that every teen we serve has the resources and support they need to thrive. Together, we will build on the strong foundation we've established and create a brighter future for those we serve. Thank you for your continued support and trust. I look forward to this exciting journey ahead!” — Debbie Thompson, Incoming Executive Director

Travis, who has served as Executive Director since 2022, will continue working with Debbie and the Board of Directors through the end of the year to ensure a seamless transition and a successful Night of Hope 2026 Gala this April. During his tenure, One Way Love strengthened its operational systems, expanded partnerships with St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, and significantly increased fundraising capacity. Under his leadership, the Night of Hope Gala grew into one of St. Tammany Parish’s most anticipated community events — raising record-breaking funds to support youth and families in crisis. He also launched the Community Impact Awards, honoring local educators whose extraordinary commitment changes the lives of their students.

As Travis transitions to his new national role, One Way Love is proud to announce that CANN will become a community partner organization, collaborating with us to advocate for policy solutions that affect our students and families at the state level. This partnership will connect One Way Love’s front-line experience with at-risk youth to CANN’s expanding national platform for healthcare access, affordability, and equity — ensuring the challenges our students face are represented in broader conversations about policy and systems change.

With Debbie’s leadership, One Way Love enters its next chapter with a clear vision: to build on our legacy of compassion-driven service while amplifying our voice for the youth we serve.

As always, our mission remains at the heart of everything we do — protecting the most vulnerable, serving the most broken, and ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive.