For Desirree, mentoring isn’t something she does—it’s something she lives. 

Now a mentor at Scribner Middle School, Desirree’s passion was shaped years ago by a teacher who saw her, believed in her, and stayed present through multiple seasons of her life. That teacher walked with her through third, fifth, and sixth grades—not because it was required, but because it mattered. That steady presence left a lasting impression, and Desirree knew one day she wanted to offer the same kind of care to someone else. 

Today, she does exactly that. 

Each week, Desirree meets faithfully with a small group of girls, creating a space grounded in trust, encouragement, and belonging. One of their favorite traditions is making Mother’s Day cards and flowers together. While most students prepare their cards for moms, aunts, or grandmothers, last year two girls quietly chose to give theirs to Desirree. 

It was a meaningful moment—one that spoke to the depth of their connection. With care and wisdom, Desirree gently encouraged the girls to share their cards with a mother figure in their own lives. Even then, she was mentoring—guiding them toward healthy relationships and helping them honor the people who support them. 

Desirree often talks about treating the girls in her group like her own. She calls their conversations Motherly Talks—open, honest discussions about making good choices, caring for others, and becoming positive family members, friends, and neighbors. These moments are not lectures, but loving guidance built on trust and consistency. 

This is what mentoring looks like at Hope Collaborative. 

It’s not about quick fixes or checking boxes. It’s about showing up week after week. Listening closely. Offering encouragement when it’s needed most. And helping young people grow in confidence, character, and hope for the future. 

Through mentors like Desirree, Hope Collaborative lives out its mission to empower young people through transformative mentoring that strengthens social and emotional learning, restores confidence, and guides them toward positive futures.