Meet Wendy Johnson!

Wendy Johnson began her career in criminal justice after graduating from the SC Criminal Justice Academy in 1986. In 1987, she made history as the first female police officer—and later the first female detective—at the West Columbia Police Department, where she served for 13 years working cases involving child abuse, domestic violence, and sex crimes. She continued her service as a Victim Advocate with South Congaree PD and later the Lexington County Solicitor’s Office, retiring in 2021 with 33 years in the criminal justice system.

Today, Wendy manages the Courage Collective Thrift Boutique for The Courage Center, where community donations are transformed into meaningful support—100% of proceeds directly fund the organization’s work. This role is a natural fit, allowing her to connect with others and share the mission of The Courage Center. Through her experience, Wendy has seen firsthand that recovery is possible—something her years in law enforcement rarely revealed.

Wendy’s connection to The Courage Center is personal. Her daughter Amber is in long-term recovery and serves as a Harm Reduction Outreach Coordinator with the organization, reinforcing Wendy’s belief in hope and healing.

Wendy brings compassion and real-life understanding to her work, sharing encouragement and the message that recovery is possible.