Dr. Jacqueline Hester is a transformative leader with over a decade of experience in higher education and a strong commitment to student success. As the Dean of Public Safety at Miramar College, she oversees critical programs, including Fire, EMT, Lifeguard, Regional Police Academy, and Detention Academy training. Previously, she served as the Dean of Emeritus and Child Development programs at San Diego College of Continuing Education and as the Dean of Community Education Programs at Kennedy-King College in Chicago, where she co-led the Tech Launchpad initiative, introducing new academic programs to address growing technology needs.

With a diverse professional background that includes roles in enrollment management, admissions, and education administration, Dr. Hester has also served in the U.S. Army Reserve. She earned her Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Foundations with a specialization in Higher Education Administration from Illinois State University, an M.B.A. from Saint Xavier University, and a B.A. from Illinois State University. Dr. Hester is known for her ability to create collaborative environments and her expertise in managing operations, vendor contracts, and grants to drive institutional success.

Mrs. Crissie Woods is an accomplished educator, leader, and entrepreneur with a passion for empowering youth and building generational wealth. With a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University and a Master of Educational Leadership from Concordia University, she has dedicated 18 years to inspiring and mentoring young minds as a teacher, assistant principal, and Christian camp leader. As a co-founder of CHOP Mentoring Non-Profit, alongside her husband, Decore Woods, she works to provide youth with the tools to build confidence, develop self-care, and explore life-changing opportunities. CHOP, which stands for Courageous, Honorable, Overcomer, and Powerful, reflects their shared vision of nurturing successful students and fostering positive community influence.

Beyond her contributions to education, Mrs. Woods is a trailblazing entrepreneur. In 2020, she launched Portia Properties LLC, a real estate business focused on creating affordable housing, achieving six-figure revenue by 2021. She also founded Eternal Tribute Books, offering personalized keepsake books to preserve memories in the digital age. Her creativity, determination, and vision exemplify her ability to transform challenges into impactful ventures, making her a leader who inspires change and growth in every endeavor she undertakes.

LaToya Trotter is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience managing multi-million-dollar projects across highly regulated industries such as telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace, and utilities. She is also the Manager of Synergy Development Firm, an MWBDE-certified real estate redevelopment company, and the CEO of Synergy Development Firm Cares, her nonprofit organization. Driven by a passion for creating sustainable communities, LaToya focuses on building strategic partnerships and providing education, opportunities, and resources to underserved areas, particularly in Chicago’s South Side Englewood neighborhood, where she was raised.

A woman of faith, LaToya sees her life as a mission to serve and transform lives. She takes pride in shepherding her 14-year-old daughter and giving back to her community. Known for her operational excellence, passion for community development, and commitment to continuous improvement, LaToya brings a wealth of knowledge and a heart for service to every endeavor, always eager to inspire and uplift others.

This program provides guidance and mentorship for young women aged 14 to 24, illuminating their path with wisdom and support.

This program provides group mentoring to males aged 14 to 24.

This program help families who have lost a loved one to gun violence.

This program provide referrals for employment and resources.

We offer group mentoring for youth ages 12–18 every 2nd Saturday of the month from 1 PM to 3 PM

Meet with your  assigned youth in person once a month for 1–2 hours to foster connection and mentorship.

Are you interested in providing opportunities for youth aged 16-24 to work at your company/organization, with their wages covered for at least 12 weeks?