Non-Profit Spotlight: Leah’s Hopes and Dreams

We had a conversation with the Co-Founder and President of Leah’s Hopes and Dreams, Dr. Shenique Carmichael, to learn more about what they are doing locally, such as in Charlotte, North Carolina. Here is the conversation:

Question (Q): Hi, and thank you so much your taking the time to do this interview. You are the co-founder of Leah's Hopes and Dreams (LHD), a local non-profit. Can you tell our readers what it is that LHD does, such as the who, what, where, and frequency?

Answer (A): Thank you for the opportunity. Leah’s Hopes and Dreams (LHD) is a Charlotte-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, and other life challenges. Our mission is to provide hope, support, and resources that empower people to move toward self-sufficiency and a better quality of life.

We serve more than 2,000 individuals each month through weekly outreach efforts, food distributions, hygiene support, clothing assistance, job placement resources, transitional housing programs, and our Medical Mobile Unit, which provides basic healthcare services to underserved communities. We conduct community outreach every Wednesday and Saturday throughout Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, and we also lead international humanitarian initiatives in Exuma, Bahamas, focused on education, healthcare, food security, and youth development.

Q) How long have you guys been operating?

A) Leah’s Hopes and Dreams has been serving the community for 14 years and has grown from a grassroots effort into a multifaceted nonprofit organization. What started as a passion for helping those in need has expanded into programs that address homelessness, hunger, healthcare access, education, and housing. Throughout our journey, we have remained committed to meeting people where they are and helping them take steps toward a brighter future.

Q ) What does it feel like when someone expresses grattitude for you alls work?

A) It is incredibly humbling. While we don’t do this work for recognition, hearing someone’s story of how a meal, a safe place to stay, medical care, or simply being treated with dignity made a difference in their life reminds us why we do what we do. Gratitude reinforces that every act of kindness matters. Many of the people we serve have faced tremendous hardships, so when they take the time to say “thank you,” it reminds us that hope is powerful and that our community can make a real difference when we come together.

Q) How can someone get involved if they would like to help?

A) There are many ways to get involved. Individuals can volunteer during our weekly outreach events, assist with food and clothing distributions, support our Medical Mobile Unit, mentor youth, or help with special community initiatives and mission projects. Financial donations, in-kind donations such as food, hygiene products, clothing, and school supplies are also greatly appreciated.

We believe everyone has something valuable to contribute, whether it’s time, resources, professional expertise, or simply a heart to serve. Those interested in partnering with Leah’s Hopes and Dreams can connect with us through our social media platforms or website to learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities and community events.

Thank you Dr. Shenique Carmichael for your time and thank you to those involved with Leah’s Hopes and Dreams who are providing, or have provided, help to those in need in the commnnuity.