Clarksville, TN – LEAP Organization was pleased to recognize Pastor Steve Estep, Yolanda Stewart, and Angela Hopkins for their distinguished service as board members. They have successfully guided the organization in its mission to instill positive moral growth and sustainable life skills development in youth during their time of service.
Pastor Steve Estep served as Vice President from 2010 to 2013. One of Pastor Estep’s biggest contributions to LEAP was when he graciously opened the doors of Grace Church of the Nazarene to allow LEAP to operate the youth development programs until LEAP acquired the current facility. His church was very welcoming and supportive of LEAP’S endeavors.
“I got involved with LEAP because I bought into Reason. I remember when we first sat at the table to discuss supporting him in acquiring the Daymar College campus. This was a huge undertaking and I am extremely proud of what he has been able to accomplish in such a short time,” said Estep.Yolanda Stewart has been very supportive of LEAP’s mission since day one and contributed in various ways not limited to working as a mentor and volunteering her time at LEAP events. She also sponsored and directed a professional video that captured testimonials of LEAP youth expressing the positive impact LEAP has had on their lives.
Yolanda Stewart served as the Finance Director from 2010 to 2014. Stewart remarked when she received the award, “I’ve known Richard since he was a child and it’s really nice to see what he has become. When I was asked to join the board, I just wanted to do what I could to support him in impacting the lives of youth. Although I am no longer able to serve actively on the board due to other commitments, I still desire to help out in whatever capacity I can.”
Angela Hopkins has been very instrumental in leveraging resources with the Department of Labor to assist LEAP’s Career Readiness Program connecting employers with LEAP students looking for employment. To date over 36 LEAP participants are gainfully employed.”
Angela Hopkins served as the Workforce Director from 2012 to 2015. “After working for the Department of Labor for over 30 years and serving on the LEAP Board of Directors for 3 years, I am just ready to retire and take it easy for a while. I believe God has his hand on LEAP, thus, enabling it to grow to change kids’ lives. I enjoy being a part of it and will continue to support the organization,” said Hopkins.
“We are extremely grateful for all that our past and present board members have done, and continue to do, to enable LEAP to fulfill our purpose,” commented LEAP Executive Director Richard “Reason” Garrett, as he presented the awards.
“Through their leadership, sacrifice, and diligence, Estep, Stewart, and Hopkins have assisted in guiding LEAP in implementing sustainable programs that equip and empower the LEAP youth with the knowledge and resources they need. This leadership directly impacted the LEAP youth causing them to improve their decision making abilities and follow their paths leading to healthy, productive lives,” said Garrett.
For more information on LEAP, visit the website at www.leaporg.net