From Gala Guest to Game Changer
What started as a fun evening out with friends quickly transformed into a life-changing journey for Lacey.
A friend invited Lacey O’Keefe to attend the Home of Hope Gala for the first time in 2021. “I had no idea what to expect when we went to the gala,” she explained, “They said it would be different from your typical fundraising event. He promised it would be a fun night with dancing, so we decided to go.”
What she didn’t expect was the video they showed, featuring moms and kids who had been transformed by Home of Hope. “It was only a few minutes long, but I was sitting there with tears in my eyes, completely moved,” she said. “It made me want to learn more, to get involved, and to see if I could help in any way.”
Lacey’s experience that evening was a turning point. After the gala, she reached out to Maureen, CEO of Home of Hope, and the two met for a tour of the shelter.
“It just clicked for me,” Lacey said. “This was something I had to be a part of.”
Now, four years later, Lacey is not only a dedicated volunteer but also a key donor, helping to make a difference in the lives of mothers and children facing homelessness.
But for Lacey, it’s about more than just donating money or time. It’s about making a real impact.
“I’ve always believed in paying forward the blessings I’ve been given, and Home of Hope really stood out to me because of the way they transform lives,” she explained. “It’s not just a roof over families’ heads. It’s a full-service program that equips these women and children with the skills they need to survive and thrive. That’s what makes Home of Hope different.”
What truly sets Home of Hope apart for Lacey is the organization’s comprehensive approach to helping families.
One of her favorite ways to volunteer at Home of Hope is by spending time with the children.
“Every Wednesday evening, the moms attend classes to learn life skills, and the volunteers watch their kids. It’s something I really enjoy,” Lacey said. “It gives the moms peace of mind knowing their kids are in good hands while they focus on learning and growing. It’s amazing to see how much the moms appreciate this time, and it’s an honor to be part of it.”
“[On these nights], they teach the moms how to balance a checkbook, create resumes and find meaningful work,” Lacey said. “They’re held accountable, and they’re learning the skills that will set them up for success in the future. It’s amazing to watch.”
As a volunteer, Lacey has seen firsthand the hard work and dedication that the moms put into their own transformation.
“The moms at Home of Hope are incredibly determined,” she said. “They’re working so hard to break the cycle of homelessness. I think a lot of people don’t realize the amount of effort it takes to overcome homelessness, especially when you’re starting from a place where you haven’t been given the opportunity to learn the skills needed to succeed. These women are doing everything they can, and they’re so grateful for any help they get.”
Lacey believes there’s more that everyone can do to help.
“People often don’t realize how much of a difference they can make,” she said. “If you don’t have the money to give, you have something else you can contribute. Whether it’s your time, your skills or even just providing a meal, there’s always something you can do. Home of Hope welcomes any help with open arms, and no contribution is too small.”
Lacey’s perspective is informed by her own experiences growing up.
“I understand the fear and uncertainty that these kids are going through,” she said, reflecting on her own childhood. “There were times when my family depended on various programs, and I know how challenging that can be. But it also gave me a sense of empathy, and now I try to give back in any way I can. I want these kids to know that you can overcome adversity and make it to the other side.”
Looking to the future, Lacey hopes that more people will see the need to support organizations like Home of Hope.
“Homelessness is a problem that’s right in our own backyard,” she said. “I hope that, in the future, Home of Hope can reach even more families and make an even bigger impact. The work they’re doing is changing lives, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
For Lacey, the experience of volunteering and donating to Home of Hope has been life-changing. “I never imagined that attending a fundraiser would lead to this,” she reflected. “But it’s become a part of my life. Helping these families — it just feels like the right thing to do.”
In the end, Lacey’s story is a reminder that sometimes the smallest actions can lead to the most meaningful changes. And, as Lacey puts it, “We all have something to give. No matter how big or small, every little bit helps, and it makes a difference.