Meet John D. Raymond
John Derek Raymond is a full-time firefighter with the Slidell Fire Department, an Emergency Services Dispatcher, owner of Whatchaneed Handyman Services, and serves in an advisory capacity with his family at The Raymond Collective. John is married to his wife Erika and has one daughter, Emma.
Board of Directors | The Raymond Collective
John was born in June of 1990 in San Diego, California. He grew up with a passion for sports and the outdoors, running track, cross-country, and playing basketball, and spending any other spare time hunting, fishing and enjoying the great outdoors. His athletic talents led him to become an all-state player on his varsity football team. After high school, John dedicated a year to serving with Teen Mania Ministries in Garden Valley, Texas, known for their impactful "Acquire the Fire" conferences. In August of 2020, he married his wife Erika, and together they are raising their daughter, Emma. John and his family now reside in Pearl River, where they enjoy being active members of their local community.
Academic Background​
John attended Southeastern Louisiana University, where he continued to foster his commitment to public service and community involvement. He later took the Civil Service exam, which led to his hiring at the Slidell Fire Department, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in emergency services.
Professional Life
​John has proudly served as a firefighter for 15 years, working for both the Slidell and Baton Rouge Fire Departments. A certified EMT, he earned a Life-Saving award for his bravery in rescuing a person trapped underwater in equipment, a testament to his commitment and courage. In addition to his firefighting duties, John is an Emergency Dispatcher for the city of Slidell, showcasing his ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations.
John also played a pivotal role in the development and production of Disciple’s Cross, where he oversaw customer service, production fulfillment, and product inventory. He has served in various capacities at New Horizon Church, from production to facilities management, demonstrating his dedication to his faith and his community.
In 2023, John launched Whatchaneed Handyman Services, using his craftsmanship skills to serve his community in a new and innovative way. He has been actively involved in city-wide Serve Days, collaborating with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Community Christian Concern to make a positive impact.
John’s diverse skills, unwavering commitment to service, and passion for helping others define his personal and professional journey, reflecting a life dedicated to family, community, and faith.
