After nearly five decades of serving those in need, Jon DeActis is retiring. Widely described as soft-spoken and compassionate, DeActis says everyone has a responsibility to help others when they are able.

DeActis began his career as a probation officer, then worked in juvenile detention, and later helped people struggling with addiction at Mission Services of London’s Quintin Warner House. He later went on to become the executive director of the Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope on Wellington Street in downtown London.

Jon shares that after his 46 years in social work, the need for help has only grown. Having helped numerous people, DeActis shared that he has seen many success stories from people struggling with addiction and homelessness. Jon shared the story of one man he helped many times over the years. The last time they met, the man was broken and had hit rock bottom after using drugs since his teens and going through the program five times. Today, that same man is finishing his first year at Fanshawe College and wants to become a child and youth worker to help others, something DeActis says makes him feel proud.

DeActis said his retirement plans are simple, as he wants to spend more time with his wife, Debbie, and their grandchildren. While he may be stepping away from full-time work, he says he is not done helping others.

Source: Nick Paparella, CTV News