The Knack Award
Awarded to someone who empowers others or maintains something that benefits others, but whose ability and hard work may be unacknowledged.

Pat Johnson, RECIPIENT OF THE 2008 KNACK AWARD

NOMINATOR'S STATEMENT
Pat Johnson saved my life. This was many years ago. A fire had put me and my 18 month old son out on the street—we were homeless and desperate. I ended up at Manna House where Pat was the director. When I say Pat saved me, I don’t just mean she helped me with the physical things I needed, like food and shelter, she did, but Pat also helped me get my head together and heart back in shape. And it was not just me she helped, but everyone she came in contact with. Pat knows how to find the parts of yourself that are good and strong; around Pat people begin to regain their self-respect and they start to trust and have hope again. I know for me Pat was instrumental in my returning to school and getting the education I needed to have the life that I cherish today. She also helped my young son and did a lot of research to help find solutions that would help him cope. Beyond the profound effect Pat had on me, my family, and all of those that found themselves in need at Manna House, Pat has also been a powerhouse of activity for social change, particularly in civil rights, and has written many successful grants for programs she has designed. As I said, this was years ago, and Pat has moved on to Connecticut   where she is part of revitalizing neighborhoods to move forward and not disintegrate into wastelands. She is once again writing grants & helping whole neighborhoods move forward, creating positive change in many other places and for many other people.  I know too that Pat had her own life difficulties and challenges; she raised two kids by herself, put herself and her kid through school, and never complained or seemed bitter or hopeless. Pat is an amazing person, and like I said, she saved my life. So who deserves an award more than Pat? She’s one in a million, and the world is a better place for it..

2007 The Knack Award Recipient

2006 The Knack Award Recipient

2005 The Knack Award Recipient

2004 The Knack Award Recipient