“Thank you for the opportunity to speak about my experience as one of the first participants in the Foundation of Hope. As many of you know, entering middle school is challenging especially if you are a girl. There’s thinking about what you are going to wear and how you’ll do your hair but going to Hope helped me relax and have something to look forward to every Wednesday without stressing over the other things. Hope has opened my eyes to a new lifestyle that I never considered such as being an entrepreneur. We learned about handling and managing money.  We had the privilege of meeting some local entrepreneurs who shared their business journeys with us. We also went on multiple trips throughout the year and even got to go to Hershey Park.

I know when the time comes and I have graduated high school, I will be able to apply for a scholarship from the Foundation to further my education. I think the parents, especially my Mom, really appreciated that everything we received or activities in which we participated was provided at no cost.  Thanks again to Ms. Keasha and the Foundation of Hope for giving me an amazing experience and new opportunities.”

— Maya Hawkins’ Bailey