The Story Behind A Hope of Faith
This journey began when I viewed how many families in our community were struggling- not because they were careless, but because life hit them hard and unexpectedly. I knew at a young age, singing for the Lord, that I soon will understand my calling to serve others- whether it be by song, giving, or simply showing up for individuals and families in time of need.
My mother and father worked tirelessly to ensure my siblings, and I had food on the table and a roof over our heads. I remember watching my mother cry out to God, praying for his goodness, guidance, and provision. They showed me what real strength looked like. Those early memories shaped the foundation of my faith- and they inspired my heart for service.
After living through those experiences, I made a promise to myself and to God: I will be the change I want to see. Not just for my family, but for every family silently struggling.
A Vision Was Born
When I began working at Wilson County Department of Social Services as their Faith Connections Coordinator, my calling became clearer. I witnessed, firsthand, the silent suffering of families who were being evicted, living in cars, or left without support- often through no fault of their own.
One case that forever changed me involved a hardworking father of three. He had a stable job and was providing well, until a car accident left him without short- or long-term disability coverage. When he asked for help with rent, he was denied due to being just silently over the income limit. That broke my heart.
Another case involved a mother of three who had been abused by her father. After reporting him and getting a restraining order, she and her children were thrown out of the house- and suddenly homeless. I called every shelter in the county, but they were all full. And due to policy changes, our agency couldn’t even cover a hotel stay.
Situations like these are not rare- they are the reality for many.
These stories lit a fire in me. I knew I had to do more.
A Career that Opened My Eyes
The passion led me to begin my Social Work studies at Liberty University, where I’m currently completing my bachelor’s degree, with the goal of pursuing my Master’s and eventually earning my clinical license.
But the truth is- degrees don’t comfort a family facing eviction. Titles don’t keep lights on. You don’t need a diploma to be a blessing to someone.
Real wisdom comes from hands-on experience. From being in the trenches. From listening- not judging. Our community doesn’t need resources; it needs compassion, dignity, and faith.
There are books about building wealth, buying homes, and living luxury. But there are few books about what to do when your world falls apart in a moment. When you’re at the top one day and suddenly at the bottom the next. That kind of fall can shake your spirit- and your mental health. And it can happen to anyone: coworkers, CEOs, teachers, church leaders, neighbors.
Crisis doesn’t have a face. It doesn’t have a schedule.
Why a Hope of Faith Exists
At A Hope of Faith, I'm answering that call- to be a light in someone's darkest moment.
This is NOT a job. This is a calling.
Every opportunity to help a family keep their home, avoid utility disconnection, or move into a safe shelter is a moment of true ministry to me. And when someone comes back to say, "Thank you- you changed my life," that is my why.
Of course, the hard days will come. I know I won’t be able to help everyone. It will hurt when I have to say, “ I don’t have enough funding,” or “We couldn’t secure a partnership.” But I believe that even in those moments, there is still hope- and sometimes, hope starts with just one phone call.
Why a Hope of Faith Exists
A Hope of Faith is only one piece of the puzzle. It takes a whole community to overcome crisis. This isn't just one family's burden- it's a community responsibility. That is why we are honored to partner with other passionate agencies, faith leaders, and organizations who believe in restoring lives and preventing homelessness in Wilson County.
Together, we're giving our residents a second chance at a better tomorrow.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
(919) 709-2081