The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to feature Shannon DePerry in our Community Proud series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. Shannon’s dedication to helping others and her inspiring journey of creating a nonprofit organization have made a lasting impact on our community.

It all began with a moment of compassion. Shannon was saddened seeing kids carry their belongings in garbage bags. With the support of her employer at the time, she organized a luggage drive that collected over 600 pieces of luggage and 300 toiletry bags. Although Shannon hadn’t initially intended to start a nonprofit, the overwhelming response fueled her passion for helping others.

In 2021, Operation Fresh Start was officially established as a nonprofit. Today, the organization operates out of a room at the United Congregational Church of Westerly. Through Operation Fresh Start’s Facebook page, Shannon posts wish lists for foster children and families in need, matching these lists with “adoptive” families who want to help. The organization also creates welcome baskets filled with cleaning supplies, a cookbook, towels, and bedding for those setting up households for the first time.

Shannon’s empathy is rooted in her own experiences. She recalls being a single mom, facing tough choices like whether to pay the electric bill or buy Christmas gifts for her children. That’s why the Operation Fresh Start Christmas Drive is so meaningful to her—it’s a way to ease the stress for families during the holiday season. The drive has helped families who asked for basics like food and diapers—and received so much more.

Operation Fresh Start collaborates with several organizations, including the Thames River Family Program, Coastal OBGYN, DCF in New Haven, and the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center. Shannon is a familiar face in the Pawcatuck and Stonington communities, having worked at Noah’s restaurant, where she formed lasting friendships. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her mother-in-law started a flower cart, selling flowers from their yard and raising over $4,000 for the community. This effort naturally transitioned into her launching Operation Fresh Start.

Originally from Wyoming, Shannon has lived in Connecticut since 1980 and has called Pawcatuck home for over 15 years. When asked what makes this area special, Shannon said, “The people. Of course, the landscape is beautiful, but the people in this area are so nice and kind.” The generosity she’s encountered since starting her nonprofit, especially from those she met during her years in the restaurant industry, continues to inspire her.

In the summer months, Shannon runs Boro Bodega and Scoopery in the Stonington Borough. When asked what inspires her, Shannon shared, “The people that we help at. I see people come into Operation Fresh Start who are so broken and afraid to ask for things. They’re just trying to get back on their feet and have better lives for themselves and their kids. It’s inspiring to see someone work hard to better their life.”

Julie, Operation Fresh Start’s main volunteer, plays a vital role in its operations. The organization also welcomes volunteers from all over, including recent help from New England Science & Sailing.

In her free time, Shannon loves cooking, especially with her three grandchildren. She finds joy in cooking and cherishes the time spent with her family.

Anyone who knows Shannon knows she has the most giving heart and genuine personality. She never imagined running a nonprofit but now can’t see herself doing anything else. Through Operation Fresh Start, Shannon DePerry continues to inspire others and transform lives, making our community a better place.