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 and weekend 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.
At the present time, The Hope Center Community Center, Inc. meets at the gym of different schools and organizations within DeSoto County. In the near future, we look to expand our reach by moving into our own dedicated facility in DeSoto County. At our new facility, students of all ages will engage in 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 is 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.
CEO/Co-Founder
Education:
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Bachelor’s of Business Administration (BBA), Delta State University, Cleveland, MS
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Master of Educational Leadership (M.Ed), University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
Certifications:
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Computer Skills Certification, U.S. Air Force
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Mentorship Certification, Memphis Grizzlies Mentorship Organization
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Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Kenneth serves as the CEO 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.
STACY DODD
COO/Co-Founder
Education & Certifications:
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Mississippi Association of Addiction Professionals
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Certified Peer Support Specialist
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Satori Alternatives to Managing Aggression
Stacy serves as the COO 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 Mid-South Regional Community Ambassador for Vertava Health (formerly Turning Point) in Mississippi and Tennessee and is also the State Representative of Celebrate Recovery.
Stacy is a published author of several books. His newest book, "God's Rocks" takes the reader on a journey to uncover God's precious treasures. "Outcast to Executive" deals with leadership roles for the recovering addict. "Backpack to the 'Burbs", is the story of his life as an addict. These books are available on Amazon in paperback and for Kindle.