More than a decade ago, Louisa County resident Debbie Reed noticed many people struggling without basic resources. She believed something had to be done to help these individuals rebuild their lives. This belief led to the creation of The Journey Home (TJH).

With the help of her husband, retired physician Ed Reed, Debbie reached out to government agencies, philanthropic groups, and religious communities for support. Their efforts resulted in donations of time, supplies, and funds. The couple also worked on the facility’s design with a local architect.

In 2019, a parcel of land near Mineral was purchased, and construction began. The facility was paid off in five years and completed in 2020. TJH welcomed its first resident that year, called guests. Admission involves a thorough application process, including in-person screening, six months of sobriety, Louisa County residency, and a strong motivation to change. Residents also agree to random drug testing during their stay.

The facility features seven two-bedroom resident suites, each with a private bath and mini-kitchen, as well as shared community rooms, a master kitchen, and laundry. A small staff runs day-to-day operations with support from volunteers. Debbie contributes up to 30 hours weekly, while Ed serves as Chief Grant Writer. Residents also pitch in to maintain the facility and develop life skills.

TJH’s strength lies in its supportive, family-like environment. Residents are treated as individuals with hopes and dreams, unlike the impersonal nature of shelters. “Our residents have often lost all hope and sense of self-worth,” Debbie said. “We exist to help them gain that back and build productive lives.”

To aid transformation, TJH offers support in managing finances, completing education, and parenting. For residents without transportation, TJH partners with Giving Words to provide vehicles and assists with licensing and insurance.

For residents with young children, TJH works with the County to provide childcare and transportation. As a Christian organization, TJH also holds two mandatory weekly devotion sessions. Recognizing the need for affordable housing, TJH launched the “Next Step” program in 2020. Its first project—a donated modular home—was renovated and now houses a program graduate for modest rent. Plans are underway to expand the program with additional homes.

The Journey Home is more than just a facility. It’s a process—a journey to rebuild lives, restore hope, and create a path to a better future.

Barry Schaeffer

Barry grew up and completed his schooling in southern California, moving to Virginia in 1980.

As a communicator, Barry was a regular columnist for CMSWire, as well as Intranet Development and Newspapers and Technology Magazines, and was a reporter for his local newspaper, The Central Virginian.  He was also one of four consultant/authors for the landmark congressional study “Informing the Nation” (1987.) 

As a customer service provider: while finishing college, he spent four years in the retail beverage industry, dealing directly with customers.

As a corporate manager, he was a successful manager with several firms, including:

• At Pacific Telephone, he managed groups of up to 150 people and was rated Outstanding among managers in Southern California.
• For Arcata Data Management, he took over a 100-person division known for significant monthly losses and late delivery penalties, taking it to profitability in less than six months.
• For Planning Research Corporation, he managed a staff of 100 contractor personnel in the computer center for the White House (EOPCC), taking the Award Fee contract from zero award to maximum in six months.

As a project manager, Barry successfully led and completed major projects.

• For the private sector: Pratt & Whitney Canada, Boeing Helicopter, Sikorsky Aviation, Ford Motor Company (through Tweddle Group,) World Book Encyclopedia, The Bureau of National Affairs.

• For the Federal government: Congressional Research Service (CRS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), U. S. Office Management and Budget (OMB), Executive Office of the President (White House), Department of Defense (Army National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC), Air Force Material Command, Naval Sea Systems Command.)

• For State Governments: Administrative Code systems for Texas and Oklahoma.

As an entrepreneur, he co-founded and led two successful firms including X.Systems, (founded in 1993 and acquired by XyEnterprise in 2009.) 

He is a graduate of California State University/Los Angeles with a BA in psychology, and of the rigorous Bell System Management Achievement Program.