The Power of a Hope Dealer: Changing a Child's Story
I have so much to be thankful for. My earliest memories are filled with family and friends who loved me deeply and believed in my future. Their encouragement shaped who I am—and still guides me today. At Collins Family Ministries, we call people who offer that kind of love and support “Hope Dealers.”
A Teacher Who Saw More
One of my first Hope Dealers was my third-grade teacher, Mrs. Harris. I was loud, impulsive, and a little wild, but she saw beyond that. Instead of focusing on my flaws, she created opportunities for me to grow and made me feel truly seen.
Years later, during my senior year of high school, I sat quietly as awards were handed out, never expecting my name to be called. Then Mrs. Harris walked onto the stage to present the Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Award—and told a story about a third-grade student she believed would one day change the world. Then she called my name.
I can still feel the shock of that moment. I had always seen myself as average, but Mrs. Harris saw more. She spoke life and purpose into me when I needed it most. She was a Hope Dealer.
The Need for Hope in Oconee County
Sadly, not every child has someone like Mrs. Harris. In Oconee County, 20.9% of young adults ages 18–24 have not completed high school, compared to 12.4% statewide. Many face adverse childhood experiences—abuse, neglect, divorce, or domestic violence—that shape their futures in difficult ways.
While I was blessed with teachers, coaches, and mentors, many children are still waiting for someone to believe in them. At Collins Family Ministries, we’re inviting our community to step in as Hope Dealers—through giving, serving, and prayer.
Hope Is an Anchor
The Bible teaches us that hope is not just a wish—it’s a confident trust in God and His promises. Scripture reminds us that hope is an anchor for the soul—steady, secure, and strong even in life’s storms (Hebrews 6:19). To join our work as Hope Dealers in Oconee County and to learn more about changing a child’s story, visit collinsfamilyministries.org.