Shannon Draayer
Director of health and well-being, WesleyLife
Age: 36
Husband: Adam Draayer
Children: Theo Draayer (4), Warren Draayer (2)
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
Led expansion of the new Meals on Wheels campus to triple meal capacity and reduce food insecurity.
Engaged community leaders and thoughtfully planned a space that enhances the Drake neighborhood.
Lead well-being efforts for 2,000 team members, residents and clients of WesleyLife, Iowa's largest nonprofit provider of services and care for people 55 and older.
Served on the UnityPoint Young Advisory Council as a founding member and chair.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My biggest passion is leveraging our community systems and built environment to improve well-being, health outcomes and our economy. I'm passionate about how influential our surroundings can be on outcomes for the young and old, and how the changes we can make as individuals, businesses and governments can improve quality of life.
What are your goals in your role at work?
I'm focused on improving all aspects of well-being for our team and customers. A key focus is the impact of social isolation and addressing this on a population level. Additionally, I am focused on creatively expanding meal programs to meet rising food insecurity with fresh greens from our hydroponic farm.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
Our 2-year-old son has a rare, complex genetic disease called Zellweger syndrome, a life-limiting illness. A big role for me outside of work is as a caregiver and advocate for him. I hope to improve in my role as an advocate and expand my knowledge of American Sign Language.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
During a business trip years ago, I met with a local public health director and apologized for meeting outside of business hours. She looked at me and said, “Work is a gift.” It took me by surprise and stuck with me, regularly reminding me I am blessed to spend my days on meaningful projects.
What are your aspirations for the future?
My aspirations for the future include becoming a better advocate for all who call Central Iowa home. Through my career and personal passions, I want to continue to be a part of new, impactful projects that improve quality of life and well-being for all.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
My advice is to get involved in a number of causes and organizations to identify your passions and interests. Align where you spend your time with what you care about the most. You'll connect with like-minded leaders and feel the fulfillment of living out your purpose each day.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
A community challenge I am personally passionate about is improving the child care experience for families, including parental leave and quality child care for all. Child care workers must be appreciated, well paid and supported.
What's one fun fact about you?
During the centennial celebration of our National Park System in 2016, I visited 100 national parks in a year and documented my journey on a blog. That was a transformational year to see and experience so much of our country, all while continuing my full-time job.
Hobbies: Traveling to new places, bicycling and baseball games on beautiful summer days.
One word that describes you: Dedicated.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Big Grove Brewery.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Ted Lasso” on Apple TV.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Bike trails on a beautiful Saturday.