08/20/2026
We have some of the most amazing volunteers to come along side and share our passion and love for our clients and interns shows a very kind heart!
Meet Julie Abbott who volunteers with Amelia's Closet and Liberty’s Station. Julie has been approaching contractors for the last 3 months telling them about The Collective at Building Hope. She secured American Coating who are putting down a whole new floor in our 4,000 sq ft garage event space.......for nearly free!
We asked Julie to tell us a little bit about herself.
Julie Abbott — Retired, Relocated & Loving Life
After more than 20 years of service as a Director of Maintenance & Operations for three top school districts in California, I officially traded West Coast sunshine for Tennessee charm in 2025, and I have to say, I’m loving it! 😊
I’m a native Californian who now happily calls Tennessee home. I’m a proud mom to my son, Parker, and my daughter, Cara, who gave me my greatest title yet - Grandma - to my one and only grandson, Skylar. ❤️
Our household is a little unique as we have four generations living under one roof: my 91-year-old mom, myself, Cara, and Skylar. My son, Parker, lives nearby, so we’re fortunate to have family close.
Retirement hasn’t exactly meant sitting around! I help my daughter with her pet care business, where we walk dogs, provide doggy daycare, and offer boarding. Let’s just say I may have retired from managing facilities, but apparently I’m still managing a very different kind of workforce, one with four legs, wagging tails, and absolutely no respect for a schedule! 🐾😂
I also love volunteering at my grandson’s school, helping at a local food bank, and volunteering with Amelia’s Closet and Liberty Station. When I’m not chasing dogs or volunteering, you’ll probably find me walking one of the many beautiful local trails or exploring Tennessee’s charming towns and communities.
I’m loving this new chapter discovering all that Tennessee has to offer, spending time with family, giving back to the community, and enjoying life one adventure (and one dog) at a time!
Retired from a career I loved, surrounded by family I adore, and happily discovering what comes next. ❤️