Chamber Insider Blog

Thank you to Mobile Hope for answering a few of our questions.
Congratulations on being named a finalist for Loudoun’s 2018 Exceptional Entrepreneur!
The 24th Annual Loudoun Small Business Awards will be on November 1, 2018 –Tickets/More Info Here

 1. Tell us your story of how your company got to where it is today? 

 Mobile Hope started by realizing there was a gap in our community services that needed to be filled. With years of hard work, due diligence, compassion and community partnerships/collaborations, we have significantly grown to become recognized as the “go to” place for homeless youth. Having a great staff  and our wonderful Board of Directors, countless and engaged volunteers and clients, we are proud of the nonjudgmental atmosphere that has been created that welcomes all…regardless.

2. What would it mean to you and your company to win a Small Business Award?

Every time we are recognized for something, it helps to raise awareness on an issue that is often overlooked or forgotten. Winning would mean that we are truly making a difference and are recognized for all of the hard work and dedication we have made on this issue.

3. If you weren’t running your own business/working at this business, what would you be doing?

 (since my “real” kids are grown), I would be a bar owner on the beach and sleeping in a Hammack.

4. What book are you reading right now? / What is your favorite book?

When I did read (before running a business), I enjoyed Grisham or mystery writers.

5. If you have 24-hours off, and your family was out of town, what would you do?

Aside from catching up on work, I would try to clean my house since it often goes neglected. I would also try to catch up on all of my TVo’d shows.

6. What is the smallest thing that has made the largest impact on your business?

In the industry in which we work, our days and nights are filled with horrific, sad and concerning stories. While we also have a tremendous amount of successes that are celebrated, the smallest/easiest thing that has made the largest impact to our “kids” is offering a smile and a hug. So many of our kids never grew up in positive environments and truly realizing we don’t judge and accept each of them for who they are is part of that impact.

7. What did you want to be when you grew up as a child? / What was a childhood dream that you had?

When I was growing up I always thought I would end up being a surgeon and working for Operation Smile.

8. Who is the one person that has influenced you the most in your career?

I have been blessed to have a wonderful and supportive family and incredible friends, but the “kids” that we help are the ones that influence me the most. Seeing them succeed, smile and overcome such barriers influences me every day.

9. What is your favorite thing about running a business in Loudoun County?

Aside from the humbling support and wonderful partnerships that we have, To know we are making a lifelong change in the lives of so many.Being able to morph our business to meet the growing needs, while offering individualized support is truly unique and Seeing that there is so much compassion and engagement from our community is on my top favorites.

10. If you’re not in the office where can we find you?

If I’m not out in the community presenting to help raise awareness, I can be found meeting with or checking on “kids” who need help, visiting them in jail or accompanying them to court or an appointment.

11. What is your favorite weekend activity in Loudoun County?

I truly lead a boring life, so…One of my favorite weekend activities is driving around the county (with friends) looking for land or buildings to build a life skills facility.