What does it mean to leave a legacy? For Karen Johnson, President and CEO of New Pathways for Youth, it’s about transforming lives—one meaningful connection at a time.

In this week’s Journey To Legacy podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Karen to explore her incredible journey from a 27-year career in higher education to leading a nonprofit that’s redefining what’s possible for underprivileged youth in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Power of Mentorship

New Pathways for Youth has been serving teens in Central Phoenix for 35 years. The program connects youth, ages 13 to 21, with mentors who guide them through personal development and help them unlock their potential.

Karen describes the work as “helping youth realize that they are not defined by their circumstances.” Through mentorship and a specialized curriculum, these teens gain the confidence and tools to dream big and achieve their goals—whether it’s graduating high school, pursuing higher education, or simply believing in themselves for the first time.

“This isn’t just about the kids,” Karen shared during our conversation. “Our mentors benefit too, growing and learning alongside their mentees. It’s a life-changing experience for both.”

A Career Built on Purpose

Karen’s passion for empowering others was inspired early on by her mother, who balanced her role as a teacher with running a preschool at their church. “Watching her serve others while also leading with kindness and purpose shaped my whole career,” Karen reflected.

This early inspiration fueled her 27 years in higher education, where she helped students pursue careers in healthcare. But Karen knew she wanted to make an even more direct impact. By serving on nonprofit boards, she gained the experience and confidence to transition into nonprofit leadership, eventually stepping into her role at New Pathways for Youth.

Building a Community of Change

Karen emphasized the importance of partnerships in creating lasting impact. “We work hand-in-hand with parents, schools, and mentors to support these youth,” she explained. Parents are involved in a unique caregiver circle, ensuring they can align with and support their child’s growth.

For Karen, community collaboration isn’t just a strategy—it’s a way of life. She’s built relationships with other nonprofit leaders, fostering an ecosystem of support where everyone’s mission aligns with creating a brighter future.

What Does Legacy Mean?

When asked about her definition of legacy, Karen didn’t hesitate:

“Legacy is the impact you have on other people’s lives—the kindness, inspiration, and empowerment you leave behind. It’s about making people feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams.”

These words encapsulate the heart of her work at New Pathways for Youth, where even small actions create ripple effects that last for generations.

How You Can Help

Karen’s story reminds us that anyone can contribute to creating a legacy of change. Whether it’s mentoring, joining a nonprofit board, or donating your time and expertise, there are countless ways to make a difference.

As Karen puts it, “You don’t need to overhaul your life to create impact—small steps matter.”

If you’re inspired by Karen’s story, listen to the full podcast episode to dive deeper into her insights on leadership, mentorship, and building a legacy.

🎧 Click here to listen now!

Join the Mission

To learn more about New Pathways for Youth and how you can get involved, visit npfy.org. Whether you’re in Phoenix or elsewhere, consider Karen’s advice:

• Volunteer your time.

• Use your skills to support a nonprofit.

• Become a mentor and change someone’s life forever.

Karen’s story is a powerful reminder that leaving a legacy starts with one step—whether it’s mentoring a child, supporting your local community, or simply being kind.

Inspired by this post? Share it with someone who might want to learn more about mentorship, leadership, or giving back.

Together, we can create legacies that matter.