Everyone deserves a place to call their own.
Yet, stable housing is out of reach for the thousands of Atlanta men, women, and children experiencing the trauma of homelessness.
Our outreach, housing, and case management teams work relentlessly to help our clients move from survival mode to self-sufficiency, providing intensive, personalized care to nearly 7,000 each year.
Join us in transforming lives and communities, one success story at a time.
A group of visionary women from several of Atlanta’s largest church congregations join together.
Newcomers flock to Atlanta as it transforms from a small farm town into a booming industrial city.
Atlanta’s Travelers Aid unites programs nationwide, leading to the creation of Travelers Aid International.
Travelers Aid opens train station lounges for servicemen, later becoming Atlanta’s first nonprofit to integrate staff.
Travelers Aid aids troops during WWII, helps form the USO, and begins employing social workers.
As transportation evolves, Travelers Aid opens an office at Atlanta Airport, advocating for homeless services.
Amid the HIV/AIDS crisis, Travelers Aid assists those affected with housing and shifts to long-term case management.
After Hurricane Katrina, Travelers Aid shelters and reunites displaced families seeking refuge in Atlanta.
Travelers Aid rebrands as HOPE Atlanta, focusing on addressing the causes of homelessness and aiding unsheltered residents.
Hope Atlanta plays a key public health role during COVID-19, helping to shelter and quarantine seniors and medically vulnerable neighbors.
Action Ministries and HOPE Atlanta combine to add food assistance to homelessness programs, offering wraparound support.
A new strategic plan adds mental health services, integrates hunger and homelessness support, and focuses on partnerships.
Atlanta’s Rapid Housing Initiative aims for 500 low-cost units by 2025. Hope Atlanta partners with The Melody, the first of these developments.
Julio is an award-winning change-maker and collaborative nonprofit leader with a track record of driving measurable impact for organizations focused on the stability and success of youth and families in low-opportunity communities. He joined Hope Atlanta as CEO in April of 2022 with a strong belief that, in addition to being the #1 state for business, Georgia can become a model for addressing homelessness through collective action. Prior to joining Hope Atlanta, Julio served as COO of Families First. He has also held executive leadership positions at TechBridge and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. Julio has been recognized as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40, Atlanta Magazine’s Atlanta 500, and Georgia Trend’s Top 500 leaders, among other accolades. In 2016, he joined Leadership Atlanta, initiating outreach for domestic and intimate partner violence within Latin and LGBTQ communities. Julio also serves on the boards of Leadership Atlanta, Agape Youth & Family Center, Atlanta Victim Assistance, and the GreenLight Fund. Originally from Colombia, Julio earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Spain and holds a certification in Strategy and Innovation from Columbia University.
Elizabeth is a public health practitioner and non-profit strategist who is devoted to creating healthy and equitable communities. Banks brings a valued skill set in performance optimization and program development to HOPE Atlanta. Elizabeth has worked for Families First, the Foundation for Veterans’ Education and Research, UCLA Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and several consulting agencies, including James Bell & Associates. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from Emory University and, through her work with nonprofits, has specialized in program design, research and evaluation, and strategic management. As an up-and-coming leader in Atlanta, Elizabeth was selected as a member of Atlanta Women’s Foundations Inspire Class of 2022 and Georgia Forward’s Young Gamechanger Class of 2023.
A passionate and dedicated nonprofit leader with a background in social work and fundraising, Kellie has worked in the Atlanta non-profit sector for over 20 years. Kellie is a first-generation college graduate holding a degree in social work from Georgia State University. From there, she worked with children diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders. It is her passion for youth and those experiencing homelessness that led her to nearly nine years of service at Covenant House Georgia’s Development Team. In 2020, Kellie was honored to be named one of the Atlanta Business Chronicles’ 40 under 40. She has a huge heart for populations who are underserved in the Atlanta community and loves to engage others in meaningful work. Kellie and her husband, James, reside in Atlanta with their two incredible children. She is thrilled to be part of the long history of Hope Atlanta and is excited about the future impact it will make on Atlanta’s homeless communities.
Paula began her career in New York as an auditor specializing in nonprofit, education, and government audits. Paula has held many leadership roles encompassing finance, administration, human resources, and information technology. After moving to Atlanta, Paula began overseeing finance, operations, dining, and human resources for auxiliary services at Emory University. Her educational qualifications include an MBA from Emory Goizueta Business School, a Juris Master from Emory School of Law, and a Master’s in Nonprofit Finance and Human Resources from New School University. She also received postgraduate certificates in Evaluation and Assessment Methods from Agnes Scott College and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Paula is a dedicated volunteer Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) who passionately advocates for services benefiting children in foster care. Additionally, she actively contributes to the empowerment of young adults by teaching financial literacy, equipping them with invaluable skills for future success.
Sarah is a fundraising professional with a passion for nonprofits and furthering their missions through effective fundraising strategies. She uses written communication and authentic relationship-building to create a strong foundation. Sarah has served at multiple nonprofit organizations, including Amana Academy, Skyland Trail, the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, and consulting firm Coxe Curry & Associates. She is passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty and being a part of HOPE Atlanta’s team. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Georgia College & State University and a master’s in public administration from the University of Georgia.
As Director of Corporate Relations, Vivien brings experience in fundraising and building partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Vivien is an Atlanta native who began her nonprofit career at the American Cancer Society. Before joining Hope Atlanta, she held a role in Corporate Social Responsibility and led fundraising efforts to support Junior Achievement of Georgia. Vivien is currently finishing her Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Georgia with a concentration in nonprofit management. She has a strong passion for helping underserved communities, supporting animal welfare, and advancing civic engagement.
Marita has worked in social services for over 20 years, dedicating her career to helping underserved and at-risk communities. Elliot joined HOPE Atlanta in 2013 as a case manager and has helped Veterans access housing, employment, and other critical resources. She finds purpose in advocating for those in need and providing guidance that empowers change. She has gained experience developing programs and services to meet the needs of vulnerable populations through her roles in public and private organizations. Marita is dedicated to improving the lives of the people she serves and is honored to serve those who have served our country. She holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Elizabeth City State University.
Antoinette has over 38 years of social work experience and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Tuskegee Institute. She began her career at the Bureau of Child Welfares Decade of the Child Campaign and was an auditor and area administrator for foster care and adoption in New York. She moved to Atlanta and began work with traumatic brain and spinal cord injury clients. Later, she began assisting Veterans at Hope Atlanta. She is an organizer and secretary of Rescue1Centry, a nonprofit supporting the efforts of Metro Atlanta organizations seeking to prevent and/or mitigate the impact of child exploitation and human sex trafficking.
Adam joined Hope Atlanta in 2022, bringing a holistic approach to community support and empowerment through his lived experiences. Having spent years living abroad and working with San Francisco’s homeless community, Adam brings an understanding of community empowerment. He has volunteered within the LGBTQ+ community and spent more than 25 years supporting those living with AIDS/HIV. Adam’s experience working with individuals with substance use disorder has allowed him to address homelessness in Metro Atlanta. He is dedicated to serving marginalized populations, offering them assistance and a sense of hope.
Beverly has over 15 years of experience in social services, working with people experiencing homelessness and underserved populations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in health services. Beverly has an extensive history working in mental health, substance abuse, and the judicial system in Metro Atlanta. Her mission is to continuously strive to make a difference in the community as well as the lives of homeless families, individuals, and underserved populations throughout various counties.
Tony has over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting and has worked in many sectors, including corporate, government, and nonprofit. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from North Carolina State University and began his career as a Contract and Grants Accountant at Winston-Salem State University. He moved to Atlanta and began work at Coca-Cola, managing the Southeast region’s customer care finances while receiving his MBA from Troy University. His commitment to making a positive impact led him to complete the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations at the University of Georgia’s Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Shelby earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University and a Master of Social Work from Walden University. She has been with Hope Atlanta’s SSVF program for more than 10 years, providing comprehensive support and advocacy for Veterans facing homelessness. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference, Shelby approaches her work with professionalism, integrity, and an understanding of Veterans’ needs.
Sarina joined HOPE Atlanta in 2024, bringing 10 years of nonprofit experience. Her passion for supporting under-resourced communities led her to work for many organizations, including Junior Achievement of Georgia, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta. Sarina is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of South Florida and a master’s in social work from Georgia State University. She has been named one of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta’s 30 Under 30, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35, and a member of LEAD Atlanta’s Class of 2024.
Latricia has an extensive background working with a variety of the homeless population located in Metro Atlanta. Originally from Pensacola, she has a degree in Psychology from Georgia State University, a Master’s in Business Administration, a Master’s in Philosophy and is currently a Ph.D candidate in Public Policy with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. Latricia is a Certified Life Coach as well as a published author.
Jeffery Palmer has been providing non-profit social services to the underserved populations in New York City and Georgia for 36 plus years, with the past 17 years at Hope Atlanta.
Jeffery holds a Master of Social Work from Fordham University School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University. He continues to be excited and honored for being a part of the Hope Atlanta organization with a 120-year track record of improving the quality of life of thousands of individuals and communities in Georgia. He has had the opportunity to work with in the organization as it evolved into a whole health provider to meet the growing and complex needs of the people and communities within Georgia.
He is steadfast in his commitment to providing a model of best practices, he is dedicated to meeting all individuals with expertise and compassion and for those that he works with he is committed to a work culture that is inclusive, kind, and where employees feel seen and appreciated for who they are and all the work they do.
Jeffery’s personality involves a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty towards the Hope Atlanta Brand and his dedication goes beyond mere commitment and involves a deep level of devotion, passion, and perseverance towards a purpose of service to others.
Monyca joined Hope Atlanta in January 2015 as a case manager. During her tenure, she has guided many individuals to self-sufficiency through various positions within the agency. With eleven years of experience working in social services, Monyca is committed to providing the highest level of care to those in need. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Spelman College.
Dr. Valentin is a professional in behavioral health and human services. He holds a Master of Social Work in clinical mental health and a Ph.D in Social Sciences with a concentration in neuroscience behavioral biology. Dr. Valentin has certificates in Global Public Health, Health Disparities, International Conflict Resolution, and Clinical Forensics. He completed a fellowship in affective neuroscience and genetics at Emory University and another in medical neuroscience at Emory School of Medicine. Dr. Valentin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, and Certified Forensic Examiner. He specializes in social behaviors, the biology of suicide, and severe mental conditions.
Julio is an award-winning change-maker and collaborative nonprofit leader with a track record of driving measurable impact for organizations focused on the stability and success of youth and families in low-opportunity communities. He joined Hope Atlanta as CEO in April of 2022 with a strong belief that, in addition to being the #1 state for business, Georgia can become a model for addressing homelessness through collective action. Prior to joining Hope Atlanta, Julio served as COO of Families First. He has also held executive leadership positions at TechBridge and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. Julio has been recognized as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40, Atlanta Magazine’s Atlanta 500, and Georgia Trend’s Top 500 leaders, among other accolades. In 2016, he joined Leadership Atlanta, initiating outreach for domestic and intimate partner violence within Latin and LGBTQ communities. Julio also serves on the boards of Leadership Atlanta, Agape Youth & Family Center, Atlanta Victim Assistance, and the GreenLight Fund. Originally from Colombia, Julio earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Spain and holds a certification in Strategy and Innovation from Columbia University.
Elizabeth is a public health practitioner and non-profit strategist who is devoted to creating healthy and equitable communities. Banks brings a valued skill set in performance optimization and program development to HOPE Atlanta. Elizabeth has worked for Families First, the Foundation for Veterans’ Education and Research, UCLA Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and several consulting agencies, including James Bell & Associates. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from Emory University and, through her work with nonprofits, has specialized in program design, research and evaluation, and strategic management. As an up-and-coming leader in Atlanta, Elizabeth was selected as a member of Atlanta Women’s Foundations Inspire Class of 2022 and Georgia Forward’s Young Gamechanger Class of 2023.
A passionate and dedicated nonprofit leader with a background in social work and fundraising, Kellie has worked in the Atlanta non-profit sector for over 20 years. Kellie is a first-generation college graduate holding a degree in social work from Georgia State University. From there, she worked with children diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders. It is her passion for youth and those experiencing homelessness that led her to nearly nine years of service at Covenant House Georgia’s Development Team. In 2020, Kellie was honored to be named one of the Atlanta Business Chronicles’ 40 under 40. She has a huge heart for populations who are underserved in the Atlanta community and loves to engage others in meaningful work. Kellie and her husband, James, reside in Atlanta with their two incredible children. She is thrilled to be part of the long history of Hope Atlanta and is excited about the future impact it will make on Atlanta’s homeless communities.
Paula began her career in New York as an auditor specializing in nonprofit, education, and government audits. Paula has held many leadership roles encompassing finance, administration, human resources, and information technology. After moving to Atlanta, Paula began overseeing finance, operations, dining, and human resources for auxiliary services at Emory University. Her educational qualifications include an MBA from Emory Goizueta Business School, a Juris Master from Emory School of Law, and a Master’s in Nonprofit Finance and Human Resources from New School University. She also received postgraduate certificates in Evaluation and Assessment Methods from Agnes Scott College and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Paula is a dedicated volunteer Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) who passionately advocates for services benefiting children in foster care. Additionally, she actively contributes to the empowerment of young adults by teaching financial literacy, equipping them with invaluable skills for future success.
Sarah is a fundraising professional with a passion for nonprofits and furthering their missions through effective fundraising strategies. She uses written communication and authentic relationship-building to create a strong foundation. Sarah has served at multiple nonprofit organizations, including Amana Academy, Skyland Trail, the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, and consulting firm Coxe Curry & Associates. She is passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty and being a part of HOPE Atlanta’s team. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Georgia College & State University and a master’s in public administration from the University of Georgia.
As Director of Corporate Relations, Vivien brings experience in fundraising and building partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Vivien is an Atlanta native who began her nonprofit career at the American Cancer Society. Before joining Hope Atlanta, she held a role in Corporate Social Responsibility and led fundraising efforts to support Junior Achievement of Georgia. Vivien is currently finishing her Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Georgia with a concentration in nonprofit management. She has a strong passion for helping underserved communities, supporting animal welfare, and advancing civic engagement.
Marita has worked in social services for over 20 years, dedicating her career to helping underserved and at-risk communities. Elliot joined HOPE Atlanta in 2013 as a case manager and has helped Veterans access housing, employment, and other critical resources. She finds purpose in advocating for those in need and providing guidance that empowers change. She has gained experience developing programs and services to meet the needs of vulnerable populations through her roles in public and private organizations. Marita is dedicated to improving the lives of the people she serves and is honored to serve those who have served our country. She holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Elizabeth City State University.
Antoinette has over 38 years of social work experience and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Tuskegee Institute. She began her career at the Bureau of Child Welfares Decade of the Child Campaign and was an auditor and area administrator for foster care and adoption in New York. She moved to Atlanta and began work with traumatic brain and spinal cord injury clients. Later, she began assisting Veterans at Hope Atlanta. She is an organizer and secretary of Rescue1Centry, a nonprofit supporting the efforts of Metro Atlanta organizations seeking to prevent and/or mitigate the impact of child exploitation and human sex trafficking.
Adam joined Hope Atlanta in 2022, bringing a holistic approach to community support and empowerment through his lived experiences. Having spent years living abroad and working with San Francisco’s homeless community, Adam brings an understanding of community empowerment. He has volunteered within the LGBTQ+ community and spent more than 25 years supporting those living with AIDS/HIV. Adam’s experience working with individuals with substance use disorder has allowed him to address homelessness in Metro Atlanta. He is dedicated to serving marginalized populations, offering them assistance and a sense of hope.
Beverly has over 15 years of experience in social services, working with people experiencing homelessness and underserved populations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in health services. Beverly has an extensive history working in mental health, substance abuse, and the judicial system in Metro Atlanta. Her mission is to continuously strive to make a difference in the community as well as the lives of homeless families, individuals, and underserved populations throughout various counties.
Tony has over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting and has worked in many sectors, including corporate, government, and nonprofit. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from North Carolina State University and began his career as a Contract and Grants Accountant at Winston-Salem State University. He moved to Atlanta and began work at Coca-Cola, managing the Southeast region’s customer care finances while receiving his MBA from Troy University. His commitment to making a positive impact led him to complete the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations at the University of Georgia’s Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Shelby earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University and a Master of Social Work from Walden University. She has been with Hope Atlanta’s SSVF program for more than 10 years, providing comprehensive support and advocacy for Veterans facing homelessness. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference, Shelby approaches her work with professionalism, integrity, and an understanding of Veterans’ needs.
Sarina joined HOPE Atlanta in 2024, bringing 10 years of nonprofit experience. Her passion for supporting under-resourced communities led her to work for many organizations, including Junior Achievement of Georgia, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta. Sarina is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of South Florida and a master’s in social work from Georgia State University. She has been named one of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta’s 30 Under 30, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35, and a member of LEAD Atlanta’s Class of 2024.
Latricia has an extensive background working with a variety of the homeless population located in Metro Atlanta. Originally from Pensacola, she has a degree in Psychology from Georgia State University, a Master’s in Business Administration, a Master’s in Philosophy and is currently a Ph.D candidate in Public Policy with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. Latricia is a Certified Life Coach as well as a published author.
Jeffery Palmer has been providing non-profit social services to the underserved populations in New York City and Georgia for 36 plus years, with the past 17 years at Hope Atlanta.
Jeffery holds a Master of Social Work from Fordham University School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University. He continues to be excited and honored for being a part of the Hope Atlanta organization with a 120-year track record of improving the quality of life of thousands of individuals and communities in Georgia. He has had the opportunity to work with in the organization as it evolved into a whole health provider to meet the growing and complex needs of the people and communities within Georgia.
He is steadfast in his commitment to providing a model of best practices, he is dedicated to meeting all individuals with expertise and compassion and for those that he works with he is committed to a work culture that is inclusive, kind, and where employees feel seen and appreciated for who they are and all the work they do.
Jeffery’s personality involves a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty towards the Hope Atlanta Brand and his dedication goes beyond mere commitment and involves a deep level of devotion, passion, and perseverance towards a purpose of service to others.
Monyca joined Hope Atlanta in January 2015 as a case manager. During her tenure, she has guided many individuals to self-sufficiency through various positions within the agency. With eleven years of experience working in social services, Monyca is committed to providing the highest level of care to those in need. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Spelman College.
Dr. Valentin is a professional in behavioral health and human services. He holds a Master of Social Work in clinical mental health and a Ph.D in Social Sciences with a concentration in neuroscience behavioral biology. Dr. Valentin has certificates in Global Public Health, Health Disparities, International Conflict Resolution, and Clinical Forensics. He completed a fellowship in affective neuroscience and genetics at Emory University and another in medical neuroscience at Emory School of Medicine. Dr. Valentin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, and Certified Forensic Examiner. He specializes in social behaviors, the biology of suicide, and severe mental conditions.
Board Chair
Consultant
AGCO Corporation
Secretary & Treasurer
Vice-Chair
CBRE
Ernst & Young
BlackRock
Truist
Georgia Power Company
Emory University School of Medicine
Walker Deisley Strategic Consulting
Self-Help Credit Union
Young Professionals Board Chair
Berkadia
Gas South
Wells Fargo
Norfolk Southern
Bank of America
The Home Depot
Hope Beckham Espinosa
Alston & Bird (Retired)
Georgia-Pacific
Chick-fil-A
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
Northside Hospital
Consultant
Councilman, City of Atlanta
Genuine Parts Company
IHG
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
Georgia Perinatal Consultants
Consultant
Board Chair of Hope Atlanta
VP Regional Accounts
LocumTenens.com
Founder, Board Chair & Senior Advisor
Food Well Alliance
Senior Vice President
Genuine Parts
Senior Vice President
CBRE
Senior Consultant
Coxe Curry & Associates
Chief Counsel, Labor & Employment
Southern Company Gas
Managing Partner
Atlantica Properties
Research Professor
Emory University
President
Perennial Properties
Founding Partner
Smith Gambrell & Russell LLP
District 81 Representative
GA House of Representatives
Partner at Incisive
Associate Dean for Leadership Development
Emory University's Goizueta Business School
Co-Founder/Principal
Bridger Properties
CEO
Saint Joseph’s/Mercy Care
President & CEO
United Way of Greater Atlanta
Partner, Lawyer
Gray, Rust, St. Amand, Moffett & Brieske
Vice President and Market Leader Enterprise
Community Partners
Partner
Smith Gambrell & Russell LLP
President of Property Management/Operations
Columbia Residential
President
Live Oak Capital Partners LLC
Former General Counsel
Bon Secours Health System
Pro-bono attorney for Hope Atlanta
Managing Principal
Montag & Caldwell
COO
Roofstock
Attorney
Formerly at International Justice Mission
Marketing Committee Chair
BlackRock
Governance Committee Chair
Microsoft
Berkadia
Self-Help Credit Union
Young Professionals Board Chair
JFrog
Coca-Cola
Berkadia
Georgia Tech
Tapp Finance
Board Vice Chair, Special Events Committee Chair
CBRE
Development Committee Chair
KPMG
City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of International and Immigrant Affairs
JP Morgan & Chase
Hope Beckham Espinosa Communications and INROADS
Hope Beckham Espinosa Communications and Marketing
The Beck Group
Interested in learning more about the Young Professionals Board?
Click here to send us an email.
As we continue celebrating #HispanicHeritageMonth 🎉, we’re spotlighting two incredible Hispanic leaders from our Hope Atlanta Board of Directors.🌟 We’re in awe of how their deeply held cultural and family values have shaped them into the change-makers they are today.
Gina Espinosa-Meltzer believes the Hispanic community is a beacon of strength and resilience, worthy of celebration all year.
“Reflecting on the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation should be an ongoing practice, not limited to a single month,” she says. “The Hispanic community has demonstrated its value through its remarkable resilience and strength, particularly during challenging times like the Covid-19 pandemic.”
For Cesar Wurm, the Hispanic community’s strong emphasis on uplifting others inspires his commitment to supporting those experiencing #homelessness.
“In many Hispanic cultures, there’s a strong emphasis on helping others, especially those in need, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he says. “This sense of communal responsibility drives my passion for creating opportunities and resources for those who may feel forgotten.”
Gina and Cesar, we are incredibly fortunate to benefit from your passion, dedication, and leadership at Hope Atlanta and in the greater #Atlanta community. 🙌 🧡
It’s #HispanicHeritageMonth 🎉, and we’re honoring the incredible contributions of the Hispanic leaders and team members in our Hope Atlanta family—including two amazing members of our Young Professionals Board! 🌟
Carolina Ramos 🇸🇻 credits her El Salvadoran heritage and family with instilling her passion to uplift those facing #homelessness.
“Whenever we had the opportunity, my family would volunteer or donate to support the homeless community,” she says. “These experiences brought me a deep sense of joy, particularly when I had the chance to talk with people directly. I saw how much it meant to them to be treated as individuals, not as their circumstances, but as human beings with dignity and worth. The joy in their eyes when they felt seen and heard reinforced my belief that we all have the power to make a difference, no matter how small.” ✨
Born in a small town called Coyuca de Catalan in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero 🇲🇽, Manny Portillo was also surrounded by family role models who taught him the meaning of being a good neighbor.
“I remember spending summers with my great aunt Silvia in her apartment complex, where we would often see an unhoused man wandering her forgotten northwest Atlanta neighborhood,” he says. “But my aunt`s response was always the same: she would invite him in, offer him food and drink, and treat him like family.”
Carolina and Manny, your compassion and cultural pride are truly inspiring! 🧡
We couldn`t let #HispanicHeritageMonth pass by without celebrating two of our incredible staff members, Liz Shirley and Dr. Edward Valentin. They`ve shared how their Hispanic heritage influenced their commitment to helping others, and their impactful work speaks even louder than words. 💪Their passion and dedication shine through every day!
Lead Intake Specialist Liz was raised in California by Mexican immigrant parents and remains inspired by their strength and work ethic. 🇲🇽
"My Hispanic heritage instilled values like hard work, determination, and perseverance, and it showed me that no matter what walk of life we may be in, we should always approach life and those in need with empathy and compassion," she says.
Dr. Edward Valentin, our Senior Director of Clinical Services, grew up in Añasco, Puerto Rico, maintaining a deep sense of pride in the heritage that ignited his desire to serve others and better his community. 🇵🇷
"A Puerto Rican folk singer (Roy Brown) wrote a song about being Puerto Rican even if he was born on the moon," he says. "That sentiment is profound and runs deep for me. There is not a moment that I am not thankful that I am Latino. Everything I do, whether it`s my work in behavioral health or neuroscience, is attached to a powerful history of resilience and perseverance of people who ignited the world with their music, sweetened humanity`s taste buds through the hard labor on sugarcane fields, and advanced medicine in the face of public health crises. Among many other Latino contributions, I am part of a heritage that has repeatedly demonstrated what is possible when things are done with passion."
Your passion makes a difference in the lives of the clients you serve, and we`re so proud to have you on our team! 🙌
We recently unveiled a refreshed brand to celebrate a new chapter in our rich, 124-year history 🎉. What better time to take a walk down memory lane?
Check out these facts to learn more about Hope Atlanta’s journey as one of #Atlanta’s longest-standing providers of #homeless services. Better yet, become part of our story by getting involved! 🧡
👉 Learn how at the link in our bio.
🎉 Congratulations to our CEO, Julio Carrillo, who was recently recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Latinos in Georgia! This is a well-deserved honor and a testament to Julio`s leadership, vision, and commitment to building a more equitable community.
As we celebrate #HispanicHeritageMonth, we`re proud to see Julio continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of Latino leaders. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and for making a meaningful impact within and beyond our organization! 🌟
Phenomenal announcement from
Mayor @andreforatlanta at
Heroes for Hope annual gala event! Huge thanks to the @cityofatlantaga 🧡
#heroesforhope2024
