In the heart of Dothan, Alabama, a unique organization thrives, embodying the spirit of community support and the tenacity of motherhood. City Hope, founded by Courtney Martin and Stacee Desper, two homeschooling moms with a profound commitment to their community, stands as a beacon of support for foster parents across seven counties. This remarkable venture offers an array of essentials—from clothing and toys to diapers and laundry detergent—free of charge to children entering foster care. It's a testament to the power of community and the impact of compassion.
Courtney and Stacee's journey into entrepreneurship is rooted in their shared passion for making a tangible difference in the lives of foster parents and children. Their approach to business is not just about providing material support; it's about lightening the burden on foster families and bringing smiles to the faces of children during challenging times. The success of City Hope is a direct reflection of the community's generosity, showcasing what can be achieved when people come together to support one another.
Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with motherhood is no small feat, yet Courtney and Stacee navigate this challenge with grace and determination. Their strategy is simple yet profound: integrating their children into the daily operations of City Hope. This not only allows them to spend valuable time together but also instills a sense of responsibility and community service in their children. The support of their husbands further enables them to maintain this delicate balance, illustrating the importance of family support in achieving personal and professional goals.
Flexibility is a cornerstone of City Hope's operational philosophy. Understanding the unpredictable nature of family life, Courtney and Stacee have designed their organization's model to accommodate their personal commitments without compromising their mission. Volunteers play a crucial role in this model, stepping in when the founders need to be elsewhere, ensuring the continuity of support for foster families.
Technology is another vital component of their strategy, enabling them to manage their organization efficiently while remaining present for their families. Tools like Canva, Facebook Business Suite, Mailchimp, Text-in-Church, and Google Drive are indispensable in their day-to-day operations, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—making a difference in the lives of others.
The journey of City Hope is filled with rewarding moments, each serving as a reminder of the impact they're making. For Courtney and Stacee, success is measured not just in the growth of their City Hope but in the positive change they bring to the lives of foster parents, children, and their own families. It's a holistic view of success that prioritizes making a difference over traditional metrics.
The lessons learned through their journey are invaluable, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present and prioritizing God and family. Their experience underscores that balance doesn't mean doing everything perfectly but choosing what's important in the moment. This philosophy is something they hope to share with other moms considering the path of entrepreneurship.
City Hope's contribution to the community extends beyond material support; it's about creating a network of empowerment for mompreneurs. By encouraging and supporting one another, moms can achieve greater things, not in competition, but in collaboration. Courtney and Stacee envision a future where more foster parents engage with City Hope, and the community becomes more aware of their mission. Their goal is clear: not everyone can foster, but everyone can contribute and make a difference.
Courtney Martin and Stacee Desper's story is a powerful testament to the impact of compassion, community, and the strength of motherhood. Through City Hope, they've created more than just a "local organization"; they've built a movement that fosters hope and support for those who need it most.
City Hope is located at 3201 Montgomery Hwy Suite 18 Dothan, AL 36303
They can be reached at: 334-333-6634
Email: Cityhopewiregrass@gmail.com
Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday 9-4
Every 2nd and 4th Saturday 9-12
