ABOUT THE G.O.A.L. DIGGERS

G.O.A.L. Diggers Fundraising Committee of Lorain County is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those who are less fortunate in our community. When money is raised as result of activities, that money is then used to cover expenses and it’s also utilized to give back to our community.

The acronym “G.O.A.L” stands for “Grab Opportunities and Lift (others). The purpose of such committee is to assist individuals who have been affected by unforeseen circumstances.

Tracey Payton-Johnson (Founder/President) was born and raised in Lorain, Ohio and organized the committee July 25th, 2017. She graduated from Admiral King High School in 1991 and shortly thereafter, she moved to Monticello Mississippi to attend Alcorn State University where she focused on obtaining a Nursing Degree.

After careful consideration, Tracey moved back home (for health reasons) and enrolled in Ohio Business College where she received her Associates of Arts Degree in Business Management.

Tracey decided she wanted to further her education, so she enrolled as a ground student at the University of Phoenix in Cleveland, Ohio and obtained her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Healthcare Administration. After a short break, Tracey re-enrolled in the graduate program at the same University and received her Master’s Degree in Psychology. Tracey has an extensive background in Mental Health and Drug & Alcohol Addiction and has received numerous certifications for her efforts.

Losing her husband in 2016, she made the painful decision to resign as the Director of the Missions Services Department through Goodwill Industries of Lorain County. July 25th, 2017, Tracey decided to start GOAL Diggers Fundraising Committee in order to raise money to help those who are less fortunate. The committee is comprised of up to 30 women from the Lorain County area who all have great work ethics, who are spiritually grounded and are willing to help those who need it the most.

The G.O.A.L. Diggers have been recognized for their hard work and dedication in the Lorain County Morning Journal, WKYC Channel 3 News and through the National Convention of Negro Women “SHEROES” award ceremony.

To date the committee has held several fundraising activities such as A Gas Card Raffle, Casino Bus Trips, G.O.A.L. Diggers Annual Cabaret, their Annual Harvest Party/Trunk or Treat Event, through collaborating with various local businesses in the way of giving back through purchasing school supplies, coats, hats, gloves, food and monetary contributions to those who have been met by unfortunate circumstances.