Advisor Spotlight: Principal Doug Shupe

1 day ago
3 min read

One of the key structural elements of the Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference on-campus Club experience is the partnership with a campus advisor, a role usually held by a teacher. At Camerado Springs Middle School, this role is held by Principal Doug Shupe. Principal Shupe is a long-time, dedicated supporter of Hands4Hope. You may have previously seen him captured by a mermaid, held by Darth Vader, or stranded by an exploding volcano as he campaigned to fund the club at Camerado through his own Endless Summer Beach Party fundraiser. His support extends beyond just fundraising—he has generously shown up on weekends to offer the school's space to Hands4Hope for events such as the annual Blanket Making Party, and for other special situations, like when Hands4Hope filmed a public health PSA video.

"We are so fortunate to have Doug Shupe as part of the Hands4Hope community," says Jennifer Basset, Hands4Hope Founder and Executive Director. "His dedication to his students, his generosity with his time, and his consistent ‘yes’ whenever we ask for support speak volumes about who he is as a leader. Doug leads by example in every sense, and his commitment continues to inspire both his students and our organization. We are truly grateful for all he does." Principal Shupe has a special relationship with Hands4Hope Club participants, and truly supports them in their project endeavors. We are so fortunate to have youth have the opportunity to grow under his leadership! Read on to get to know why he values Hands4Hope and gives so much time and energy to this program, in his own words.

Tell us about what you love about Camerado Springs Middle School.

I love being the principal at Camerado Springs Middle School because every day is different. You get to shape a positive school culture, support students and staff, and attempt to make meaningful impact every day.

How does the Hands4Hope Club fit into the Camerado school culture?

The Hands4Hope Club is a natural extension of the culture at Camerado Springs Middle School, embodying our International Baccalaureate values through meaningful community service. It provides students with authentic opportunities to take action, develop empathy, and contribute positively to the surrounding community, reinforcing our shared commitment to service and global-mindedness.

What changes have you seen in students who participate in Hands4Hope?

Students who participate in Hands4Hope at Camerado Springs Middle School often grow in confidence, empathy, and leadership. Through their service, they become more aware of others’ needs, take greater initiative, and begin to see themselves as capable of making a real difference in their community.

Why do you think programs like Hands4Hope are important for middle school students?

Programs like Hands4Hope are especially important for middle school students because they provide a structured way for young adolescents to develop empathy, purpose, and a sense of belonging.

What surprises you most about what the Hands4Hope club participants are capable of?

What stands out most is just how much ownership and impact students are capable of when they’re given real responsibility. Hands4Hope participants aren’t just helping out—they’re identifying community needs, organizing projects, leading peers, and following through in ways that mirror adult-level leadership. It’s surprising, and impressive, how naturally they step into roles that require planning, communication, empathy, and persistence. When students are trusted and supported, their ceiling is far higher than we often expect, they don’t just participate, they lead, create, and inspire.

Anything else you want to share about why you have chosen to be so incredibly, deeply supportive of Hands4Hope over the years? (We are SO grateful!)

I’ve worked with and supported Hands4Hope for well over 10 years and it’s one of the best things going in El Dorado County in my opinion. At its core, Hands4Hope gives students something rare: real ownership over meaningful work. They’re not just participating, they’re planning, leading, solving problems, and seeing the direct impact of their efforts. As an educator, that’s powerful. You can teach leadership in a classroom, but it comes alive when students are actually doing it. I’ve also seen how it brings out sides of students that might otherwise stay hidden. Students who are quiet find their voice. Students who are unsure of themselves discover confidence, and students who already shine find purpose in lifting others up. That kind of growth is hard to replicate anywhere else. Lastly, I am extremely proud of the middle school program when I see students move on to High School and continue the mission of Hands4Hope.