Dr. Bronner’s All-One Initiative celebrates and supports organisations making a tangible difference in their communities. We partner with purpose‑driven organisations that champion social justice, environmental sustainability, and community wellbeing.

Below, we speak with Karen Chapman, Chief Executive at Sussex Emmaus about their work, challenges, and the positive change they’re creating.

Can you tell us about your organisation and the mission that drives your work?

For many, the hardest part of experiencing homelessness is losing their self-esteem. Many find themselves in B&Bs, hostels, sofa surfing, or sleeping rough.

At Sussex Emmaus, we do things differently. We provide a stable home within a supportive community, meaningful work, and opportunities to build a better future. Our residents have a safe space to pause, reflect, and work through challenges at their own pace.

What drives us is seeing the positive, lasting change in someone—from the moment they arrive, through the training and support we offer, to growing into their full potential. Every step forward is a step toward hope, confidence, and independence.

What inspired the creation of your organisation, and what problem were you determined to solve?

The Sussex Emmaus community was established in 1997, but it started some years before that when a number of dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to raise the funds to purchase our building.  They were driven by a desire to end homelessness in the area and had seen other Emmaus communities that inspired them.  I have a quote from one of the original volunteers who said "The founding trustees were a remarkable group of people who dedicated unbelievable amounts of time and energy to securing the funding and purchase of the site and who steered the Community through the first occasionally turbulent years".  The community has grown and evolved since those early years but we will always be grateful for their endeavours.

What impact are you most proud of to date?

There are so many moments that stand out, but what truly inspires us is seeing people grow in confidence and self-worth, supporting and empowering one another through life’s challenges. The sense of community we’ve built, not just within Sussex Emmaus, but across the wider Sussex community, is something we are incredibly proud of. When you step back, it’s these impacts that make every challenge worthwhile.

In the past year alone:

• We welcomed 18 new individuals who have experienced homelessness into our community.

• We provided 634 hours of counselling.

• We delivered 90 training courses.

• We helped 33 families in the wider Sussex area with furniture and essential goods.

These numbers tell just part of the story, behind them are real lives changed, hope restored, and futures rebuilt.

What are some of the biggest environmental or social challenges you’re currently tackling?

Like many purpose‑led organisations, we’re navigating the challenges of social inequality.  Homeless figures are rising year on year, a lack of investment for decades means that there is a severe shortage of affordable housing.  It is no wonder people come to us feeling powerless and disenchanted with the world, our role is to help them feel safe and support them to rediscover a sense of purpose.

How does working with purpose‑led brands like Dr. Bronner’s help amplify your mission?

Working with Dr. Bronner’s has enabled us to extend our reach and raise greater awareness of Emmaus and the work we do. Their commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice closely aligns with our own values and ambitions.

We strive to be as sustainable as possible, recycling donated goods to generate income that helps sustain our community, growing produce to use in the kitchen, composting all food waste, and producing honey from our beehives. Looking ahead, we hope to repurpose waste plastic into new products, helping to reduce our environmental impact.

These initiatives not only support our environmental goals, but also create valuable opportunities for Companions* to learn new skills, build confidence, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

*Companion is how we refer to those who live in the Emmaus community

What keeps you motivated, even when progress feels slow?

Progress can often feel slow, perhaps because there are so many ideas and ambitions for moving the community forward, and I want to see them all happen at once. Funding constraints and red tape can make progress feel frustrating at times so I try to step back and reflect on how far we’ve come.  Walking around the community and spending time talking with Companions always brings perspective and lifts my spirits and is also a powerful reminder of what really matters.

If you could inspire one action in our community today, what would it be?

Be kind.  Think about the impact of your actions and interactions and treat people how you would want to be treated, with kindness and compassion.

What is your favourite Dr. Bronner’s product?

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap in Citrus. It’s versatile, works for just about everything, I love the fresh fragrance and best of all it is planet‑friendly!