Our Mission

The Hope Community Center, Inc., is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the community of DeSoto County, Mississippi, by providing safe activities and events for the area’s youth. Combining a much needed after-school program with a variety of activities for citizens of all ages, the Hope Center will infuse the culture of DeSoto County with optimism and a more positive community.

Students of all ages will have many age-specific options so that they can identify areas in which they may excel and find their passions. Some of the possibilities include fine arts, sports, gardening, and computer skills. With the help of trained leaders, passionate volunteers, and local law enforcement, children will be able to have fun and learn in a structured, secure location. Security will be enhanced through the use of a badge system that will require parental approval and communication. The layout of the classrooms and gymnasium further augment enjoyable and practical learning environments.

The Hope Center will be sponsored by area businesses, churches, and individuals. Once the first building is constructed, additional sources of revenue will include space rentals and the on-site coffee shop. This upscale shop will model the highly successful Coffee Waves coffee shop in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The Hope Center will be a beautiful, positive, upbeat addition to DeSoto County. Its place in the community will enhance opportunities for the county's youth and provide skills and leadership training for the next generation. Tax ID: 35-2519986

Our team

Kenneth McKinney, SR.

President / Co-Founder

Kenneth serves as the President and Co-Founder of The Hope Center. His passion is educating and mentoring at-risk youth and families in the community by giving them knowledge, wisdom, and opportunities to grow and learn in an encouraging environment.

Kenneth is the Principal of Hope Sullivan Elementary School in Southaven, MS, an Associate Pastor at Golden Gate Cathedral Church in Memphis, TN, and a member of the Southaven Chamber of Commerce.

Education:

Bachelor’s of Business Administration (BBA), Delta State University, Cleveland, MS
Master of Educational Leadership (M.Ed), University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS

Certifications:

Computer Skills Certification, U.S. Air Force
Mentorship Certification, Memphis Grizzlies Mentorship Organization
Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Stacy Dodd

Co-Founder

Stacy serves as the Director and Co-Founder of The Hope Center. His passion is to enrich the lives of at-risk youth in the community by giving them opportunities to grow and learn in an encouraging environment.

Stacy is the Vice President of Operations at Addiction Campuses of Mississippi - Turning Point in Southaven and is also the State Representative of Celebrate Recovery.

Education & Certifications:

Mississippi Association of Addiction Professionals

Certified Peer Support Specialist

Satori Alternatives to Managing Agression