Meet Stacy Johnson | Founder & CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stacy Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stacy, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for Central Texas Table of Grace came from a deeply personal place. As a former foster child, I experienced firsthand the challenges of growing up in the system. I knew what it felt like to long for stability, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Those experiences shaped me, and as I grew older, I felt a calling to do something meaningful to give back and create a positive impact for children facing similar struggles.

I wanted to build a space that wasn’t just a shelter, but a sanctuary—a nurturing environment where displaced children could feel safe, valued, and supported. I envisioned a place where they could receive not only basic necessities but also emotional support, and hope for the future. That vision became Central Texas Table of Grace.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work revolves around creating a safe, nurturing space for children in foster care through my nonprofit organization, Central Texas Table of Grace. What sets us apart is that this isn’t just a shelter; it’s a place of healing, growth, and empowerment. We provide more than food and housing—we teach life skills, foster emotional support, and instill hope for the future. As someone who grew up in the foster care system myself, I know firsthand how transformative it can be to have people believe in you and provide you with the tools to succeed.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. Building a nonprofit from the ground up while overcoming my own challenges took resilience, determination, and faith. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you can’t do it alone. I couldn’t have achieved any of this without the support of my amazing, generous community. Their kindness and belief in our mission have been life-changing—not just for the kids we serve, but for me personally.

My heart has been healed of every past abuse I suffered because all the love and support I missed in my childhood, I’m receiving now. The people who have rallied around Central Texas Table of Grace have filled that void with encouragement, generosity, and compassion.

What I’m most proud of is how far we’ve come. We launched Grace365 in 2021, which provides housing for young adults aging out of foster care, and we’re now planning to build 22 units to help even more youth avoid homelessness. Every step forward is proof that what we’re doing matters.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that my story isn’t just mine—it’s shared by so many children in foster care who deserve a chance to thrive. Central Texas Table of Grace is more than a brand; it’s a mission to give these kids the opportunities and support they need to create a better future. I want to inspire others to step up for vulnerable children and show them they are valued and loved.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Austin, I’d make sure they got the full experience of the city’s vibrant energy. We’d start the day with breakfast tacos from Veracruz All Natural and take a stroll or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake. Evenings would be all about live music at iconic spots like The Continental Club and dinner at Terry Black’s BBQ or Aba for an upscale twist. We’d explore the murals and shops on South Congress, hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and watch the bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. A trip to Hamilton Pool Preserve and dinner overlooking the sunset at The Oasis on Lake Travis would cap off the week. Austin has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to incredible food and music!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes to Russ Hansen, the group home therapist who made a profound impact on my life when I was 15. At that time, I was in my 10th placement since entering the foster care system at age 2. I told him my goal was to get emancipated by the time I turned 16 and live independently. Russ believed in me and supported my ambition when I needed it most. He gave me the book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens and guided me through the steps I needed to take to achieve that goal. Thanks to his encouragement and mentorship, I accomplished what felt like an impossible dream at the time. Russ’s belief in me helped shape who I am today, and I’m forever grateful for his role in my journey.

Website: https://centraltexastableofgrace.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctxtableofgrace/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/central-texas-table-of-grace

Twitter: https://x.com/CTXTableOfGrace

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centraltexastableofgrace

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfslCz6QHd-Nm1KkCqFMDsw