#whataboutme
Two women. One Shared purpose.
Gilda Smith and Debra London founded Bands of Hope with a shared belief that helping a child can strengthen a family and influence a future. Since 2011, they have turned that belief into action by creating opportunities for youth, supporting families, awarding scholarships, and bringing people together to serve. Their continued commitment reflects a simple purpose: give young people the support and opportunities they need to move forward with confidence. Their education and professional experiences add to their understanding of business operations, planning and communication. Their combined careers have given them the practical skills to oversee the details required to move an organization forward.
What do you want children and families who participate in the organization's programs to gain from their experience?
"We want parents to understand that Bands of Hope is all about exposing youth to improve social skills, self confidence with controlled behavior, along with educational factors."
Debra London
What part of the mission remains most important today?
"The realization that we could make a difference in the lives of single parents and their young children. As time moves on and experiences with the youth and their parents continue to evolve our focus is on educational activities, encouragement and support of our youth."
Gilda Smith
