1. How long have you been participating with Hands4Hope?
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference since its inception.
2. How did you hear about Hands4Hope?
As an Assistant Principal at Oak Ridge High School I was responsible for engaging in community outreach. I learned of the great work that young people and Jennifer were doing in the community and chose to participate as a professional responsibility and a personal passion.
3. We know you could dedicate your time to many other boards/non profits in the community. What is your position on our Board and why did you choose Hands4Hope?
I am a Director with the Board of Directors for Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference. I have served as Vice-Chair in the past and have enjoyed working with a diverse group of directors over time. Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference combines my passions: service to others and youth development. My life work is aligned with the mission and vision of Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference and I am honored to be a part of an organization that remains true to its goals.
4. What is your impression/experience with Hands4Hope youth?
The youth involved with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference are from diverse backgrounds and have myriad aspirations and goals for their work with the organization. Whether students are involved through school or not, volunteers are inspired and empowered to make a difference. Some youth volunteers have been involved with leadership activities from a very young age while others are seeking involvement for the first time. I appreciate the inclusion that Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference promotes, ensuring that young people can find their place and pursue opportunities for involvement. Jennifer has worked tirelessly to build a program where anyone and everyone can find a place to belong.
5. Overall, what has your experience been like since being involved with Hands4Hope?
I have grown as a human through my involvement with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference. I enjoy the opportunity to network as a professional and community member. I appreciate my growth regarding the organizational aspects of non-profits and I have developed increased knowledge and skills regarding youth development. Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference has provided opportunities for community engagement with personal and professional growth. It’s a fun and welcoming organization where people support each other while working toward the goals of the organization.
6. Anything else you'd like to share?
Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is a unique organization. Through a service learning model, young people and adult volunteers provide service to the community while developing skills and relationships. While “community service” is an important piece of what we do, it is not all that we do. Combining youth development with service creates an amazing growth model for those involved. Talking with the young people involved over time, I realize the impact that involvement in Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference has on their lives. I don’t think that I am overstating when I say that Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is transformative for those involved and I look forward to what the future holds for the organization.