Cindy Cheeks brings 18 years of nonprofit leadership, from volunteer to executive director, advancing causes like disaster recovery, racial reconciliation, poverty alleviation, and child welfare. 

A practitioner of collective impact, she has served Mississippi since 2018 by strengthening collaboration in the child welfare system. 

A certified Hope Navigator through the Hope Science Research Center, she blends nonprofit experience with hope science to shift policies from short-term fixes to lasting empowerment. Cindy shares her expertise through services, speaking, and workshops. 

Recent engagements include the Mississippi Juvenile Justice Conference, Youth Court Judges Conference, MS Balance of State Continuum of Care, MS Home Corporation Developers Conference, and the Christian Stewardship Alliance of the Philippines.

Dr. Scott Hanberry has dedicated 30 years to advancing neighborhoods, communities, and municipalities through nonprofit organizations, particularly the local church. With deep expertise in leading volunteer-driven initiatives, he has successfully equipped and empowered leaders to create meaningful change. His work spans global disaster relief, education, food and water distribution, micro-industry, and more.

Dr. Hanberry extends his impact through contract coaching and culture development, helping corporate and nonprofit organizations harness their full potential. His passion lies in guiding leaders to build strong, mission-driven communities.

About Homes of Hope: Homes of Hope is a Christian ministry that gives hope to children in crisis.  We serve at-risk children and families throughout Mississippi by providing safe, stable homes that meet their physical, emotional, spiritual, and educational needs.

Some people live with hope. Dwight Owens embodies it.

In 6th grade, Dwight’s world was shattered when his father was murdered—his life taken simply because of his race. Imagine stepping off the school bus and being met with that devastating news. Yet, even in the face of such unimaginable loss, Dwight chose love and forgiveness over anger.

Fate tested him again. As a young coach and teacher, he was rear-ended by a drunk driver—an accident that left him fighting for his life, spending a year in the hospital on the brink of death.

Now, he dedicates his life to spreading hope, especially among high school students, through his powerful "See You Monday" campaign, a heartfelt mission to discourage drinking and driving—especially on prom night. He also leads the charge in circling the wagons around the disability community, offering strength to those searching for a sign of hope.

Elder Scottie Tyrone is a native of Sumrall, Mississippi. At the age of four, he began to develop his musical gift, and at the age of five, he began playing at his local church. From then on, Elder Tyrone has continued showing his love and dedication to the gifts God has placed within him.

Elder Scottie Tyrone is currently the Pastor of Worship at Real Life Church in Hattiesburg, Executive Pastor of Lincoln Park Ministry in Sumrall, and visionary of Gifted Music Academy School of the Arts. 

His talents have allowed him to minister nationally and internationally in places such as Paris, Portugal, and across the United States.

Elder Tyrone strives for continued personal growth and to impart faith and hope into the lives of those with whom he comes in contact.

Contact: 
(601)-336-2056

scottietyroneministries@gmail.com

J. Stephen Beam is an author and storyteller who has published two books: The Death Letter, released in the summer of 2023, and The Bondage of Innocents, which will be released in April.

Beam is a former high school science teacher and retired physician. He holds degrees from The U. of Mississippi and The U. of Southern Mississippi, and a medical degree from The U. of Mississippi Medical Center. He lives in Sumrall, Mississippi, with his wife, Dawn Beam, a former Miss. Supreme Court Justice and current podcast host. The couple has five children and two grandchildren.

He is available for — and thoroughly enjoys — appearances with book clubs, libraries, historical societies, and gatherings of any size to discuss his writings and his drive to create.

​Reverend Martha Cherry is a religious leader in Mississippi with a diverse background in ministry and community service. She serves as a Volunteer Chaplain at the Hattiesburg Police Department, a role she has held since  2013. 

Her educational background includes studies at the Interdenominational Theological Center.​ 

In addition to her chaplaincy, Reverend Cherry holds the position of Bishop at Ambassadors for Christ Ministry. Her roles encompass being a Pastor, Teacher, Intercessor, Founder, President, CEO, Visionary, Church Planter, Outreach Minister, Missionary, Evangelist, and Christian Counselor.