The Foundation of HOPE, Inc., a non-profit organization in Talbot County received program funding from the United Fund of Talbot County. The Economic Development and Empowerment Program is an after-school program that delivers a new topic each week such as: self-esteem, how to deal with bullying, leading a healthy lifestyle, saying no to drugs and alcohol, the importance of community service, workforce development which includes; how to fill out a job application; Economic and community development, social media, financial literacy, leadership, public speaking and in the entrepreneurship lesson they learn the tools to develop a business plan. The program meets with students once a week afterschool to provide training. The first hour is spent providing homework assistance and the remaining hour is spent teaching the training program. Each week the participants are provided a hot meal.
The funding from the United Fund allows the program to continue to provide educational programming to girls in the Talbot County community. The United Fund of Talbot County is the only local philanthropic organization that for over half a century of fundraising has raised $12 million plus to assist non-profit charities in Talbot County. Together with partner agencies, the United Fund is working to meet challenges in our community and to create a lasting, positive impact in our County. The Foundation of H.O.P.E., was founded by Keasha Haythe, CEcD, a 18 year economic development veteran who is a certified economic development professional and Maryland Economic Development Association Board of Directors Past President. She continues her passion for economic development by serving as President and Founder of the foundation and launched the Economic Development and Empowerment Program. Haythe stated “As an economic development professional the common theme heard from business leaders was adults were not prepared with the soft skills needed to fill positions. This program focuses on soft skills at an age where the young girls are transitioning and preparing for work in two years.” “The young ladies completing the program are receiving the necessary skills and tools to be self- sufficient and great leaders in their community, said Haythe.”
Without the support of our sponsors and many partners like the United Fund we would not be able to offer this program to girls in sixth grade. We are grateful for the partnership with the United Fund. The Foundation Board of Directors is preparing for their Annual Fundraiser to be held on Saturday, December 7, 2019 from noon-2pm.
About the Foundation of HOPE
Our mission is to help young girls lead productive lives in their communities by providing cultural, social and educational development. For more information like us on Facebook and visit our website at www.foundationofhopemaryland.org
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.