Susan Booth

I attribute my success to a combination of purpose, perseverance, and being open to the signs life presents. My career began as a teacher and later transitioned to working on Metro-North Railroad, where I eventually managed training programs. Yet it was a television program in the early 1990s that truly changed my life. Watching Barbara Walters tearfully introduce a segment on the abandoned children of Romania, I felt a calling I could not ignore. The conditions those children faced were unimaginable, and I knew I had to take action. That moment set me on a path that led to founding Archway Romania, initially funded by Ronald McDonald Charities. What started as a mobile soup kitchen grew into a shelter for homeless children, supported by private donations and sustained by strong personal connections.

Working closely with Oragel Denda and his family over the past 25 years, we’ve supported street children, helping them distribute clothing from generous donors like Richard and Virginia Williams and creating safer places for them to sleep and grow. My success comes from listening to the needs of the children we serve, embracing unconventional solutions, and surrounding myself with people who share a commitment to compassion and integrity. I believe that true impact comes from following your heart, acting with purpose, and trusting that even small steps can change lives.

The best career advice I’ve ever received comes from observing the incredible dedication of Richard and Virginia Williams from Iron Mountain, Michigan. Despite personal health challenges and coming from humble beginnings, they devoted themselves to humanitarian efforts in Romania—organizing and transporting large shipments of clothing and blankets to children in need. Their selflessness, perseverance, and commitment to helping others, regardless of obstacles or differences, have been a guiding example for me throughout my journey. Witnessing the resilience of the children we serve has further shaped my approach, inspiring me to expand the reach of Archway Romania, build connections with like-minded individuals, and encourage others to contribute to meaningful change. Their example has taught me that real impact comes from compassion, action, and unwavering dedication.

Don’t fit everything into pre-existing paradigms think outside the box. Get on the ground, speak directly with the people you want to help, learn what they fear and need, and build local partnerships. Be willing to take chances and pursue grassroots paths when formal channels aren’t available.

Above all, I value compassion, empathy, transparency, and integrity in both my work and personal life. I bring passion and selfless energy to everything I do, whether in my career or through my work with Archway Romania. I have dedicated myself to building support for the foundation, advocating for the children we serve, and raising awareness of their needs. My goal is to inspire others to engage, contribute, and help create meaningful opportunities for these children, so together we can make a lasting impact.