CHRISSY DONNELLY best-selling author in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY?
It’s an honor to be considered with women in the Valley who are making a difference in others’ lives. One of the things I love about Arizona is its widespread philanthropic spirit. It’s easy to take it for granted, but it’s really extraordinary.
WHY IS BEING AN AUTHOR YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH?
It started out as a project to interview married couples about the secrets to a great marriage, as my husband and I were newly married at the time. Along the way, I discovered I loved sharing these inspiring stories, as I saw how they encouraged and helped others through tough times. It also made me realize how important it is to find something you love in life and focus on it.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT?
The letters we’ve received over the years about how a story we shared encouraged someone or changed their life for the better. I take no credit, but hearing about the result is gratifying.
WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS?
The grace of God in my life.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?
Taking the leap of faith by leaving my stable profession as a CPA with Price Waterhouse to become an author in 1995 when the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series was relatively unknown.
WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU?
Where Hope Lives is an amazing program that helps rescue young women who are victims of sex trafficking, primarily here in Arizona. With the help of the groundbreaking Dream Rooms program, Where Hope Lives is creating a safe refuge where these girls can begin to heal and find new purpose for their future. These young women inspire me every day.
WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE?
To bring inspiring stories to the big screen. I am a movie fanatic and see way too many violent films with depressing messages. My husband and I are collaborating with some established filmmakers to bring some of our stories to the big screen and make a dent in the glut of hopeless messages out there.
CHRISSY’S FAVES
BOOK: The Bible.
MOVIE: “The Shawshank Redemption.”
GUILTY PLEASURE: Reality TV shows involving singing and dancing competitions.
TV SHOW: Tie between “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Voice.” Love seeing people pursue their dreams!
VALLEY RESTAURANT: A quiet dinner with my husband at home.
ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: The local Dancing with the Stars event. I love watching my friends try new things and raise money for charity.
THING ABOUT ARIZONA: Every time I land at Sky Harbor. It doesn’t matter if it’s 115 degrees –I just feel like I’ve come home.
