By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? It’s a feeling many experience, especially when others seem distant or too busy. Debra Sue, the CEO of Glass City Talent 419 & Founder of the Historic Vistula Community Awareness Connection in Toledo, Ohio, believes it shouldn’t be this way. She understands that when adults take an active role in their communities, it helps us all feel more connected and supported. Let’s explore how Debra Sue is working to bring back the idea of community trust and why it’s important for everyone.
Who is Debra Sue?
Debra Sue has spent over a decade in the entertainment world, influencing countless artists across the country. Picture her as a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore—she helps artists navigate their paths and discover opportunities beyond their local scenes. “It has always been very important to me to help artists open their minds and consider opportunities outside of their comfort zones,” she explains. This commitment to growth is at the heart of everything she does.
Her passion for music stems from her own experiences as a performer. After spending years on stage and backing well-known artists, she turned her attention to helping others shine.
Creating a Creative Hub
Debra Sue founded Glass City Talent 419 (GCT419), transforming a historic building in Toledo into a vibrant creative hub known affectionately as “The Compound.” The space is like a mini-Motown, where artists gather to compose music, practice performances and learn about the music industry.
This building isn’t just a recording studio; it houses a beauty salon, a clothing boutique and even a classroom for industry education. It’s a space buzzing with activity, showing that creativity and community can thrive as one. Yet, before she fully embraced her passion for music, her career in the medical field demanded much of her time.
Moving Forward Together
“I worked in radiology with Mercy Health for 23 years and, when I retired, I purchased a historic building built in 1886 in the Vistula area. I couldn’t help but realize that my neighbors needed help,” she notes. “It was important to me to become a part of the fabric of the community—so I started a non-profit.”
Her non-profit, the Historic Vistula Community Awareness Connection (HVCAC), aims to restore confidence among neighbors through grassroot initiatives. “We connect and re-establish neighborhood trust,” she explains, highlighting the need for unity in facing challenges like violence, poverty and food deserts.
“The Vistula area is going through a regeneration. A new park is breaking ground in 2025, and the re-pavement of the entire Lagrange area from the Greenbelt all the way to Summit Street will also be complete in the next few months,” she explains. As improvements occur, she emphasizes the importance of involving residents in the process.
“We must remember to keep the neighbors involved and ask what they want so the City’s master plan is ideal for the area’s youth.”
A Focus on Youth
When you think about your own neighborhood, who are the adults that inspire you? Maybe it’s a teacher who believes in your potential or a neighbor who shares fun stories. Debra Sue emphasizes that every adult can play a role in supporting children. “I love people. Having a non-profit has shown me that as adults we need to be more involved in the lives of the children in our neighborhoods—not solely our own children.”
To combat this issue, Debra Sue leads initiatives like the Vistula area Free Cuts for Kids, Backpack Giveaway, and Coats for Kids, ensuring that every child has what he or she needs to succeed. “As adults, we need to be our children’s safe zone,” she states. This kind of support helps children feel cared for and understood, reminding us all of the importance of being there for the next generation.
Reflecting on Our Roles
Have you thought about how you can contribute to your community? Each small act can create ripples of change. When adults show up for kids, it strengthens the bond and encourages them to pursue their passions. Debra Sue is a perfect example of how one person can inspire many.
“Once a year, I throw a community day block party,” she says, describing the joy of bringing people together through music, food, and fun. These gatherings help people connect, fostering the sense of belonging we all need in the communities where we live.
Connecting the Community
Debra Sue takes pride in organizing the annual Historic Vistula Jazz Fest, which has become a cherished community event. This year marked the festival’s fourth year, held at the vibrant Ostrich Towne development on N. Summit Street. The free music festival showcased local talent, Arthur Bishop, the Mixed Company Band w/Debra G, and Ellie Martin & Friends. Attendees brought lawn chairs and picnic baskets as they enjoyed a relaxed live musical atmosphere.
“We connect the business community with their neighbors. Back in my day that’s how it was done—so that’s how we do it now. It’s a very effective and people centered way for people to gather,” she says.
Debra Sue’s Vision
Debra Sue also hosts a podcast called “TOLEDO to the WORLD,” where she interviews various professionals. It’s like a bridge connecting local talents to the wider world, reminding everyone that their voices matter. By highlighting the stories of others, she shows kids that they too can dream big and make a difference.
“If you have a desire to tell your story, I can help you make that happen,” she encourages, inviting those interested in promotion to express themselves and realize they are not alone in their experiences.
A Call to Action
As we think about Debra Sue’s impact, it’s essential to remember the importance of community. When adults take an active role in kids’ lives, it creates a sense of belonging and hope. Just like a team working together to win a game, everyone’s contributions matter.
Debra Sue acknowledges, “A significant change I’ve seen in the non-profit space is a loss of funding. To combat this challenge, I see organizations working together to sustain. That’s when ingenuity sets in.”
She raises an important question: “If we nonprofits don’t figure out ways to sustain, where will people go who live in food deserts or who need clothing, housing assistance, or medical supplies?”
What can you do to help build a stronger community? Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or simply being a kind neighbor, every little bit counts.
Looking Ahead
Debra Sue is more than just a CEO; she’s a community champion. Her dedication to helping artists and children shows us all the true power of connection in environments where everyone feels supported.
So, the next time you feel alone or see someone else struggling, remember Debra Sue’s example. Let’s all strive to be the adults who uplift the next generation, ensuring that no child feels isolated. Together, we can revive the spirit of the community village and nurture our dreams into fruition.