INSPIRATION: POSITIVE STORIES

5-year-old Zykeyia warms your heart with just one smile, and she has more to smile about. As a result of regularly attending Operation Explosion(OP-X) and our Neighborhood Christmas Parties, we learned that her guardian and 23 year old sister, needed some assistance in finding a job and paying a Pepco bill during the cold winter months. Not only did Hope for the Future (HFTF) take her guardian on a shopping spree for a much needed interview outfit, but HFTF volunteers worked to have Pepco turn the heat back on, and outfitted Zykeyia with warm winter clothes, new toys, and a hot christmas meal for the family through DC Share and Bless-A-Family.

An entire community was devastated when Daisha, a Hope for the Future recipient, died in her home during the Christmas season in a violent fire along with her aunt, grandfather, and cousin. Her surviving family lost everything. However, thanks to Hope for the Future, and nearby businesses, HFTF was able to provide one month's worth of free groceries to the family, a beauty salon package to treat the mother, and over $5000 worth of clothes, gifts cards, and needed items.

11-year-old Wolonda, after attending Operation Explosion (OP-X) , and Youth Mentoring (YLM) was encouraged to do well academically and to have hope despite some difficult situations. HFTF purchased a book bag, school supplies, challenged her one-on-one, and mentors even attended her school's open house. As a result, her principal and teachers said they definitely could see improvement in her academics and behavior.

Please also visit our current Youth Spotlight for more positive stories <read more>