A Day in the Life at Center for Hope
Welcome to A Day in the Life at Center for Hope, a blog series highlighting the dedicated professionals who support individuals and families affected by trauma, violence and loss. Center for Hope (CFH) serves as a beacon for those facing difficult times, offering essential advocacy, counseling and resources. In this series, we’ll explore the work and perspectives of those who contribute to CFH’s mission daily.
This month, we’re proud to feature Danielle "Denny" Randall, community program manager for our Community Violence Intervention and Prevention (CVIP) team. In this interview, Denny reflects on the personal drive that fuels her work, the healing power of relationships and the joy she finds in everything from baking cupcakes to building resilience.
Q1. Who are you, and what do you do at Center for Hope?
A. I’m Denny Randall, the community program manager under Community Violence Intervention and Prevention (CVIP).
I have the pleasure of managing four amazing and impactful programs: PAAVE (Pathways to Advocacy Against Violence Everyday), DIVAS (Developing My Inner Values to Acquire Success), KUJI Youth and Handle with Care. We provide trauma-focused services to Baltimore City residents and communities impacted by violence.
Our services include, but are not limited to:
- Case management and coordination
- Community events
- School-based services
- Support groups
- Workshops
- Youth-led groups
- Resources
Q2. What is one thing you want people to take away from your programs?
A. We don’t take a Band-Aid or cookie-cutter approach. We build relationships that are trusting, honest, natural and lasting.
We strive for individuals and families to understand that we truly care about them. Our number one goal is to promote and support healthy development as they cope with challenging times and experiences. We build relationships to meet their needs and boost their resilience after experiencing or witnessing community violence.
Q3. What keeps you doing this work?
A. The individuals I get to work with every day. I enjoy being in the community and supporting people who have lost their sense of hope. Being able to thank them for sharing their stories and allowing me and my staff to work with them is a blessing every day. I enjoy showing up, advocating on their behalf and providing safe and trusting spaces as they start on this healing journey.
Q4. What is something you love to do outside of work?
A. Outside of work, I love hanging out with my son and baking cupcakes. I enjoy helping others elevate and navigate through this system we call life!
Finding bargains, watching my favorite shows, traveling and eating my favorite foods keep me thriving and surviving. My team members all know that I love me some good fried chicken!