Please join us in celebrating Kimberly McDonough, Program Coordinator. We are so excited to have her on the team!
1. What do you do at The Magdalen House, and what does a “typical” day look like for you?
I am a First Step Coordinator. Every day brings its own set of challenges, which is one of the reasons that I love working here. My typical day involves ensuring the women’s comfort and safety, helping coordinate the daily activities and schedule, and maintaining a constant flow of communication between clients, volunteers, and staff.
2. What is your favorite line in the Big Book and why?
“And acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing or situation—some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment. Nothing, absolutely nothing, happens in God’s world by mistake. Until I could accept my alcoholism, I could not stay sober; unless I accept life completely on life’s terms, I cannot be happy. I need to concentrate not so much on what needs to be changed in the world as on what needs to be changed in me and in my attitudes.” – Page 417
I didn’t believe that I was an alcoholic or that I would have to stop drinking forever. I was drinking to escape the situations and all the realities of my life. As my drinking became progressively worse, I got to the point where I was facing either death or surrender. Acceptance was the key to my liberation.
3. What’s something you’ve witnessed at The Magdalen House that inspires or moves you?
By far, the most inspiring thing I have witnessed at Maggie’s is the transformation of the women in the house. You can see it in their posture, the way they walk, how they interact with the other women, and the beautiful light in their eyes. It is a true blessing to see that miracle happen over and over.
4. How has working at The Magdalen House impacted your life?
Working at Maggie’s has given me purpose in my life. Helping make a positive difference in the lives of other women affected by alcoholism has impacted my life tremendously, and I am forever grateful.
5. What are some of your hobbies or things that you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I enjoy devoting time to the health and wellness of myself and others.
5. What is something that we may not know about you?
In my former life, I was an avid fisherwoman. I fished every chance I got, competing in several tournaments.
About Kimberly McDonough
Kim is a dedicated Program Coordinator at The Magdalen House. A lifelong Dallas resident, she has volunteered in her community, church, and children’s schools. Her work with the Junior League introduced her to Dallas CASA, where she serves as an advocate and guardian ad litem for children in the Dallas foster care system.
Kim’s commitment to service took on a profound new life at The Magdalen House, where she volunteered extensively before joining the staff team. Having experienced the transformative power of the House firsthand, Kim is passionate about her role. She strives to help women navigate the challenges of recovery.
As a certified meditation guide, she facilitates Saturday morning meditation sessions for women at the House, providing a calm and reflective space for them to reconnect with themselves and their Higher Power, supporting their emotional and spiritual healing. Her work as a meditation guide exemplifies a compassionate approach to helping women achieve and sustain recovery with strength, resilience, and personal growth throughout their journey.
