Meet Our Team

At HOPE, we believe that the strength of our work comes from the diversity of the people behind it. Our team is made up of individuals from many different backgrounds and life experiences, each bringing unique perspectives, skills, and passions to the work we do. Many of us have walked paths similar to those of the people we serve, which keeps us grounded, humble, and deeply compassionate. Together, we are united by a shared commitment to meeting people where they are, walking alongside them in their journeys, and building a stronger, healthier community for all.


Staff

 

Debra rossi

Executive Director

hope@hopesby.com

Shelli potter

Case Manager

shellip@hopesby.com

 

Meagan Donophan

Program Coordinator, Certified Community Health Worker

meagand@hopesby.com

 

Jacob Gribbell

Operations Supervisor

jacobg@hopesby.com

 

Naquan Jones

Facilities Coordinator

 

Volunteers

Kitchen Krew

Our dedicated lunch volunteers work behind the scenes and on the front lines to make this program possible. They lovingly prepare and serve homemade lunches Monday-Thursday. Each meal is packed into to-go trays and served with care, helping to nourish both body and spirit for everyone who comes through our doors.

Guest Services

From welcoming guests at check-in and fulfilling supply requests to making coffee, assisting with forms, and making copies β€” our volunteers make each day at HOPE possible. Their dedication ensures that everyone who walks through our doors is met with kindness, support, and the resources they need.

Shower Trailer

Our Shower Trailer Volunteers provide more than just a clean place to showerβ€”they help restore dignity, comfort, and confidence to our guests. From welcoming individuals and monitoring the safe use of the facilities to cleaning and sanitizing the trailer between each use, these dedicated volunteers ensure a safe and respectful experience for everyone. They also keep essential supplies stocked, including toiletries, towels, and underwear, helping guests meet their most basic needs with dignity and care. Their commitment makes this vital service possible and reminds our community that everyone deserves access to hygiene, respect, and compassion.

Administrative Support

Behind every successful day at HOPE is a team of dedicated volunteers working to keep our operations running smoothly. These volunteers help ensure client information is entered accurately and promptly, supporting the reporting requirements that allow us to secure and maintain grant funding. They assist staff by answering phones, completing client intakes, organizing paperwork, and ensuring our Guest Services Volunteers have the supplies and resources needed to serve our community. Their attention to detail helps ensure that every guest receives timely, efficient, and compassionate support.

Board of Directors

 

Mark Cotter, PA-C

Chairperson
Retired Physician Assistant, Emergency Department
TidalHealth

Brenda Jorden, PhD, LCSW-C, MSW

Secretary
Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Field Education
Salisbury University School of Social Work

Karen Jester, MBA, CPFO

Treasurer
Retired Finance Director with extensive experience serving multiple local government agencies in Washington and California

Ian Finlayson

Retired Director of Quality Assurance
Dresser Industries

George Demko, PhD

Substitute Teacher, ESL Program
Wor-Wic Community College
Retired Director, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC)

The Venerable Laura Harbaugh

Archdeacon
Assistant Director, Bishop's Institute
Vicar, St. Paul's Episcopal Center

Richard Polk

Lead Pastor, Canvas Church
Church Planting Catalyst, SEND Network
Prayer and Mobilization Missionary, Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware

Honorary Board Member

George Benedict

Retired Business Owner