Our Team
We have great programs and services, but ultimately what makes HOPE great is our team of staff, volunteers and partners! With over 20 years of collective public service experience, our team brings together diverse talents to deliver first-class programs, services, and resources to our community. Scroll down to meet our all-star management team.
Management Team
Enrichment Center Director
Jaclyn Thomas
Jaclyn is the glue that holds things together at HOPE. She oversees the day-to-day operations, but what she loves most is the opportunity to build relationships with individuals, families and partners within the community. Her passion is to build up communities by connecting people with invaluable resources and partnerships at an affordable price. Jaclyn has eight years of experience in public education and has a B.A. in English and MPA in Public Administration.
Academic Advisor
Monique Waithe
Monique is the epitome of the phrase, "Where there is a will, there is a way"! Having overcome many obstacles early in life, from being in foster care to being a first- generation college student, she not only graduated from high school with a 4.2 GPA, but went on to earn a B.A. in Music and Psychology, a multiple subject teaching credential, administrative credential, and M.S. in Educational Leadership. Monique has worked in education for eight years and aspires to create and implement programs that will provide academic support for the entire family. In her spare time, she enjoys singing, reading, and spending time with her family.
Assistant Director
Misheilya Shorter
Misheilya is one of the first faces you will see at HOPE. She assists with the day-to-day operations, researches grants, and develops community partnerships. Misheilya is passionate about helping people get the necessary tools and resources to promote healthy families. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration and has over six years of experience serving in the education field. Outside of HOPE, she is somewhat of an exotic car enthusiast! She also enjoys spending time with family, shopping, going to the movies, and reading.
Enrichment Coordinator
Shirley Elder
E-n-t-h-u-s-i-a-s-u-m is Shirley's middle name! She keeps things exciting at HOPE by developing and overseeing enrichment courses and planning the annual showcase. Shirley is a credentialed teacher with three years of classroom experience and over 10 years of experience teaching dance and cheer. She also cheered for four years at Cal Poly Pomona! Her interests include singing, dancing, and teaching. Shirley holds a B.S. in Psychology and a multiple subject teaching credential.