Fueled by Family
How Vanessa’s Childhood Inspired Her to Volunteer at The Hope Center
Vanessa Kemp, a ‘utility player’ among our incredible Hope Center volunteer team, has had a life-long connection with those that have come to the U.S. seeking a new life and a safe place to land.
Growing up Vanessa’s family welcomed refugees into their home with open arms. When she was in the 6th grade her family hosted a refugee family from Loas. Throughout this time, they shared meals of the family’s home country while introducing them to the – albeit less enticing – food typical in American homes. She grew up sharing their home, although a tight-squeeze, it was filled with love, acceptance and embraced those who needed a place to land. Until the passing of her parents, Vanessa stayed in contact with the Laotian family consistently.
She reconnected with the refugee community when the war in Ukraine began. ‘I was drawn to help when I saw what was happening in Ukraine. I searched local places to volunteer with refugees and The Hope Center came up immediately.”
Three years later and Vanessa is now a favorite among many of the women studying English and preparing for their citizenship exams at The Hope Center. You’ll often see her in the cafe with a circle of women around her–working to strengthen the skills they are learning in English class or simply just enjoying a cup of coffee, sharing stories.
It was hard for her to deny the energy around her when she became a volunteer, “I love connection with those different than I am. What I love about The Hope Center and what I do here is the sense of community. Coming down those basement steps for the first time and seeing colorful hijabs and traditional clothing from around the world and hearing different languages all around me took my breath away.”
Her time with the students she tutors and serves does not stop at the hours she spends with them in the cafe. “I have lasting friendships and I am part of families here. I feel so honored to have become part of these families and that they have opened their arms to me.” She
The staff at The Hope Center know to count on Vanessa for any needs that come up on some of the busiest days. Education Manager Sharon Hughesknows the value of consistent, reliable volunteers. “Like many of our volunteers, Vanessa shows up to support our programming in practical ways but additionally makes herself available to build friendships with our students- which is invaluable,” Sharon expressed, “You often see her after class drinking coffee in a circle of women, offering to giving rides to appointments, and going above and beyond to support our guests outside of the Hope Center. It is clear she is a treasured mentor and friend for many people."
We thank Vanessa for going above and beyond the call of duty – embracing her call from God to accept The Hope Center students into her life the way she has.
