Joanne Cameron feels strongly about giving back to the church. Whether it’s coordinating Sunday Coffee Hour, serving on the special events committee, or holding various posts with St. Andrew’s justice ministry PEACE (People Engaged in Active Community Efforts), she quietly takes on assignments and helps make things happen.
“St. Andrew’s gave so much to me, for so long, that I’ve always felt this need to give back. It’s a supportive, loving community that helped me get through a difficult time,” she says. “It’s truly been an anchor in my life for so many years.”
Born in the United Kingdom, Joanne arrived in Florida, with her then fiancé, Haydon, a journalist, in the mid-1970s, when he accepted a position with a national publication. Later after they married, she worked briefly in sales for Mary Kay Cosmetics, then chose to remain at home with their children while her husband traveled for work. They found their way to St. Andrew’s in 2003 and have been members ever since.
Not long after joining the church, Joanne found herself attending her first PEACE Nehemiah Action Assembly at the urging of then Rector Father Bill Hamilton. “Being with all of these people at the assembly was a powerful experience,” she says. “You do get the feeling that you can really make a difference and effect policy change.”
PEACE is a justice ministry organization made up of 19 different congregations throughout Palm Beach County. These congregations bring together large numbers of people who hold political and economic systems accountable for serious community problems. For example, PEACE invites public officials to attend the Nehemiah Action Assembly each March to hear about social and community issues that affect the lives of the people in the greater community.
“We shine a light on issues like wage theft, police/community relations, and homelessness,” says Joanne. “Then take a systemic approach to effect policy change. Everyone involved works extremely hard, from steering committees to house meetings to rallies, it’s inspiring how much time and dedication people put forth.”
“I’m thrilled that Rev. Cori is committed to continue building the PEACE ministry here at St. Andrew’s. There is still much work to be done!”
5 Questions for Joanne Cameron
- What is your favorite hymn? “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind.”
- What service do you attend? Saturday, 4:30 p.m.
- Do you sing in the shower or your car? My car. Definitely if I’m driving at night.
- What is something not many people know about you? Back in the day I was a certified aerobics instructor. I’m still very much into physical fitness. I do at least 10,000 steps a day!
- How would you describe St. Andrew’s in a word or phrase? Nurturing.
