Misty Gustafson, the homeless programs supervisor for the City of Chandler, was celebrated as the 2023 Beth McDonald Woman of the Year. According to a statement from the City of Chandler, the annual honor, which involved a banquet hosted by iHeartMedia's 99.9 KEZ and Shea Homes on February 28, culminated with Gustafson being selected from a group of 12 monthly nominees.
With four years under her belt serving Chandler, Gustafson has effectively run the city's homeless outreach and non-congregate shelter programs. Notwithstanding her having lived through homelessness and addiction herself, she now uses her experiences to fight for those who are caught up in similar struggles. As part of her award, Shea Homes bequeathed a $7,500 cash prize to Gustafson, a nod to her outstanding contributions to the community.
"The challenges I've overcome are the same challenges faced by the people I'm trying to help in Chandler," Gustafson told the City of Chandler. Her personal journey of redemption, which includes six years of sobriety, an incarceration period, and a successful battle with homelessness, lends a palpable authenticity to her work. It's not just a job for Gustafson; it's a mission to help our clients get off the streets and connect to services to help make their lives better.
Nominated by her husband, Gustafson, who was surrounded by her family, mentor, and work-family, accepted the Woman of the Year award.
