In this series you’ll meet our dedicated Family Team coaches, all of whom are volunteers driven by one, unified goal: to find a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D).

The role of a JDRF One Walk Family Team volunteer coach is to provide stewardship, motivation and cultivation to connect families to JDRF’s mission. Our coaches work with the Family Team Chair to make calls to One Walk family teams to thank them, cheer them on and help answer any questions about One Walk.

You’ll find our coaches at pre-walk events and on Walk Day at our five One Walk locations throughout New Jersey.

Name: Arne Johnsen

Town: Oakland, NJ

How long have you been involved with One Walk and/or JDRF? 17 years

Who is your T1D Hero? My hero is my daughter Angela. She is 19 years old. She was diagnosed at age two and is now studying to become a nurse.

Favorite coaching/connecting moment this year? My favorite moment this year was talking to Danielle from Team JP. She was very enthusiastic toward reaching her fundraising goal. Also, was very thankful of the work that I’m doing.

What do you love about Walk Day? I always enjoy being with my family and friends on Walk day.

Favorite piece of advice for a family/individual new to One Walk or JDRF: One piece of advice is to make a day of it. We always ended up at a restaurant or having a BBQ after the walk with friends and family.

Special note: Arne is not only involved with One Walk, he has also been participating in our Ride to Cure for the past few years. He’ll be joining the Metro Roadsters in Saratoga Springs this weekend!