When I first heard about The House of Love Project, I was in awe. I thought “How awesome to have such an incredible program in Vail!” Then I thought, “How come I hadn’t heard about it before? We need to get the word out about this!” Now, I’m thrilled to share with you a few details about the project and person behind it all – Tara Johnson. Here’s her story in her words.
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
My hobbies are writing and taking notes of things that I’d like to write about. I also enjoy hiking for physical and mental health, and to generate creativity. For me, stimulation comes from social activities, and being with my friends makes me very happy. I am an extrovert, yet sometimes I like the autonomy of silence. Health and wellness is also important to my family and I.
2. What brought you to Vail?
I moved my kids to the Vail School District in 2011 utilizing open enrollment. It took me nearly two years to move to Rita Ranch, bussing them to school every day, but the wait was well worth it. We recently moved to Vail, as my oldest is now in high school and can walk to school. My little ones are going to a “Blue Ribbon” school and love learning. We are blessed.
3. What’s your favorite thing about living here?
My most favorite thing about living in Vail is being able to witness the beautiful skies. Additionally, the community is wonderful, loving and generous.
4. When family comes to visit, where are the three places you take them?
It’s not often that we have visitors, but we have a few “go to” spots that we like to frequent. My favorite hike is the Agua Caliente Trail Hill at the end of Ft. Lowell Road because you can make the hike as simple or as difficult as you like. My favorite place to have a cocktail is midtown at SideCar. I love brick buildings and I am a sucker for a patio, and they have both. And my favorite breakfast dive is Frank’s & Francisco’s, because it reminds me of good high school memories.
5. Why did you start The House of Love Project?
I always wanted to help others, but I never knew HOW. It wasn’t until 2014 when I saw that the dream of this project could become a possibility, so I filed for our 501(c) 3. When I was younger I was taken in by a host family on occasion, as well as lived with close friends throughout my high school years. This allowed me to stay in one school for the duration of high school– different from the life I had previously known when I was under the care of my mother. For a short time, I was under the care of my favorite high school teacher. She, without knowing, demonstrated a love that I had never known. She shared this love with everyone, not just me. She showed me what it meant to be believed in, to be driven, and to CARE for others unconditionally. So that’s exactly what I’m doing. It is the example I want to live by and set for others, including my three children.
6. Promo time! Tell us a little bit about your upcoming event.
To launch the organization, and to offer a service that will benefit the community in several ways, we are hosting a “Parents’ Day Out” event for elementary school-aged kids on Valentine’s Day! There will be activities, games, movies, healthy food provided by Shamrock, and entertainment by local musicians. The event lasts ALL DAY, or parents can choose a half day segment (lunch or dinner). The event is being held at Mesquite Elementary School in Rita Ranch, just off of Rita Road.
Purchase your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/parents-day-out-the-house-of-love-project-tickets-15485585804
