Executive Director

Nicole is an advocate with extensive knowledge of the Mississippi Department of Corrections and the challenges navigating the system. Drawing on her background in paralegal work, Nicole brings a strong understanding of legal processes and a commitment to advocating for individuals who are incarcerated.

Nicole is passionate about understanding factors that contribute to recidivism and aims to research outcomes for individuals who have been incarcerated for violent offenses. She is also deeply committed to parole reform, with a focus on individuals who committed serious offenses at a young age. She believes that accountability and rehabilitation can coexist and is passionate about creating pathways for individuals who have demonstrated growth and change to have meaningful opportunities for a second chance.

Outreach Director

Wendy brings more than 30 years of experience working in healthcare and a lifelong commitment to serving individuals in need. Her extensive experience has given her a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face when navigating complex systems.

As Outreach Director, Wendy helps connect individuals and families with resources, services, and opportunities. She plays an important role in client placement, particularly for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), helping identify appropriate services and supportive environments based on each client’s unique needs.

Her decades of healthcare experience, generosity, and commitment to service make her a valued member of the Hope Dealers team.

Direct of Mental Health & Training

Dr. McLachlan holds a Doctorate in Psychology and experience working in psychiatric hospitals, juvenile settings, and court systems. She has devoted her career to helping individuals impacted by mental health and justice-related challenges. Known for her deeply empathic approach, Dr. McLachlan is passionate about supporting those often overlooked by the system.

In her role as Director of Training, Dr. McLachlan provides education and training to Hope Dealers’ interns, helping them develop a deeper understanding of mental health, the criminal justice system, trauma, rehabilitation, and the lived experiences of the individuals and families served by the organization. Her work emphasizes compassionate, informed, and culturally responsive approaches to service.

Youth Development Program Lead

Madeline leads youth development and mentoring efforts in Alabama. In her role, she supports the development and implementation of programs designed to empower young people, strengthen positive relationships, and promote long-term personal and community outcomes.

Madeline is a Bachelor of Social Work student at Auburn University with a strong commitment to serving vulnerable populations and advancing opportunities for youth. Her work is grounded in a passion for mentorship, advocacy, and community-based support, with a particular interest in addressing the challenges young people face within the criminal justice and healthcare systems.

Psychometrist & Admin Lead

Jean is a psychometrist with Cohesion Psychology who supports Hope Dealers through assessments, administrative coordination, and organizational support. Known for her organization and attention to detail, Jean plays an important role in helping keep programs, projects, and day-to-day operations running smoothly. Jean also helps coordinate and support interns, providing guidance and helping ensure they have the structure and resources needed to contribute effectively. In addition, she supports the organization’s social media and communications efforts, helping share Hope Dealers’ mission and impact with the community. Her versatility, reliability, and willingness to step in wherever needed make her a valued part of the team.

Creative Assistant

As a photographer and visual storyteller, Makenna captures the raw emotion, grief, and humanity behind every moment. Deeply artistic and endlessly creative, she has a passion for documenting real life through honest, meaningful imagery. Her work is shaped not only by her creative perspective, but also by her own lived experience with many of the challenges and systems that Hope Dealers works to address. Her first film, Broken Systems, Lost Sons, follows the heartbreaking story of a 15-year-old boy whose life was tragically taken, while documenting the experiences of his grieving family as they navigate loss, injustice, and the fight for healing. Makenna uses storytelling to amplify voices, preserve lived experiences, and bring greater visibility to the people and communities impacted by broken systems.

Project Specialist

Isabella brings a background in business administration, community service, leadership, and advocacy. She is pursuing a degree in Business Administration at Tuskegee University. Isabella’s experience includes work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where she explored Black bioethics and STI/HIV prevention, as well as leadership roles within Tuskegee University’s Bioethics Honors Program. At Hope Dealers, Isabella supports program development and implementation, helping turn the organization’s mission into meaningful initiatives that serve individuals, families, and communities. She is passionate about combining her business and leadership skills with her commitment to service and social impact.

Intern

Emma Sherer is a first-generation college student studying Law and Justice with a minor in Philosophy at Auburn University. She is passionate about advocacy and committed to helping create a more equitable justice system. After witnessing the inequalities within the criminal legal system, Emma became motivated to advocate for those too often overlooked, particularly individuals impacted by racial disparities, mental health challenges, socioeconomic barriers, and systemic injustice. Through her work in prison reform, she hopes to promote meaningful change, dignity, and opportunities for rehabilitation. Emma plans to attend law school and become a criminal defense attorney, where she hopes to continue advocating for individuals navigating the legal system.

Intern

Maxwell is a Criminology major at the University of South Florida, where he is also pursuing a minor in Applied Behavioral Analysis and a research certificate. He is passionate about prison reform, reentry, and advancing a criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and successful reintegration into the community. He is committed to supporting restorative justice efforts and gaining firsthand experience in the challenges surrounding incarceration and reentry. His long-term goal is to pursue a career in criminal justice policy focused on reducing recidivism, improving outcomes for individuals returning to their communities, and contributing to meaningful, lasting reform across the United States.

Interns

Lily Hellmich is a Criminology student at the University of South Florida with a strong interest in the criminal justice system and a passion for helping others. She is particularly interested in rehabilitation, reentry, and understanding the challenges individuals and families experience throughout the criminal justice process. After graduation, Lily plans to pursue a career in law enforcement, with the long-term goal of becoming a homicide detective or private investigator. She hopes to combine her academic background, investigative interests, and commitment to serving others throughout her career.

Volunteer

Kamari is a Psychology major at Xavier University of Louisiana from Cleveland, Ohio. She is passionate about understanding people and helping them navigate life’s challenges through empathy, awareness, and access to mental health resources. Kamari’s dedication to mental health stems from her belief that everyone deserves support and the opportunity to thrive. She aspires to work in counseling, community outreach, or mental health advocacy—empowering others to overcome obstacles and build fulfilling lives.

Volunteer

Theresa is a trauma-informed counselor completing her Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from International University. Passionate about fostering resilience, she specializes in social skills training and providing compassionate support to individuals navigating trauma. With an appreciation for diverse cultures, Theresa integrates a global perspective into her work, ensuring her approach is both inclusive and impactful. Her dedication to mental health and cross-cultural understanding drives her mission to empower others on their journey towards growth.

Volunteer

Mariangely is a dedicated volunteer and community advocate with a passion for youth development, leadership, and service. A current Auburn University student, Mariangely is a former Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year and Scholar Athlete of the Month, recognized for her achievements in academics, volleyball, and community service. As a volunteer, Mariangely brings her leadership experience and passion for service to support mentoring and development efforts. She is committed to encouraging young people to recognize their potential, build confidence, and make a positive impact in their communities.

Volunteer

Illona is a psychology intern from France with a passion for understanding the human mind and supporting others. She is especially interested in the intersection of psychology and education, focusing on providing individuals with disabilities the support they need to thrive in learning environments. With a calm and approachable demeanor, Illona creates a welcoming atmosphere wherever she goes, making people feel at ease while fostering meaningful connections.

Volunteer

Havin is a dedicated and passionate advocate for prison reform. As a future forensic psychologist, Havin is deeply committed to understanding the complex interplay between mental health and the criminal justice system. Havin is recognized for her innate curiosity and empathetic approach, which drive her efforts to create meaningful change. Havin's work is fueled by a profound belief in the potential for personal growth and redemption, and she strives to ensure that every individual has access to the mental health resources they need.

Volunteer

Irene, with a bachelor's degree in law, combines her sharp intellect with a passion for environmental advocacy and social justice. She spent 4 years assisting in developing ground-based solar power plants. Beyond her professional pursuits, Irene's dedication shines through her volunteer work, where she enriches the lives of adults entering into the workforce. Her approach to societal improvement underscores her advocacy for a fairer, greener future.

Volunteer

Arthiga, a Parisian native, embodies a natural affinity for forging connections across the globe. As a law student, she channels her passion for helping others into her studies. Her curiosity drives her to delve into the narratives that shape people's lives, seeking to understand and advocate for diverse perspectives. Arthiga's journey is not just one of academic pursuit but also a heartfelt mission to learn, serve, and contribute to the global tapestry of human stories.