Meet our volunteers
- Lindsey Fiest
Why do you volunteer?
As someone who has seen firsthand the effects of substance abuse on my loved ones, and witnessed those around me filled with grief after losing someone to similar issues, wishing we could have done more, drug awareness and education is something I am passionately advocating for. Overdose numbers are rising, and the younger generations are being hit the hardest. Today's youth—the future of our community—should feel free to express their individuality in positive ways, without fear of shame or judgment. I believe that by opening up about personal experiences and sharing the proper information and resources, we can help end the stigma and foster a healthier, more supportive community.
How has volunteering impacted your life?
I began volunteering with the feeling of, 'I wish there was something I could do,' and it quickly shifted to the mindset of, 'I need to do this.' It has been an incredible journey of helping others, spreading awareness, and meeting amazing people with valuable experiences that have shown me I am not alone in the challenges I face. Volunteering with Hope Above Fear has given me a whole new perspective on what community means, and I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and get to share with others.
- Lila Nicholson
Why do you volunteer?
I volunteer because people I know and love, both family and friends, have been affected by fentanyl addiction and overdose. I feel a personal commitment to educating my community about the dangers of fentanyl and opioid use.
How has volunteering impacted your life?
Volunteering has impacted me greatly by showing me that we are capable of making a change. It has also demonstrated that our community can really come together to show support. I love working with Hope Above Fear to spread awareness!
- Summer Miley
Why Do You Volunteer?
I volunteer for many reasons, and honestly, words can't fully capture all of them. Drugs have affected my life tremendously, impacting both friends and family. I volunteer to show people that they shouldn’t feel ashamed of their experiences and to let them know they are not alone. When I saw Hope Above Fear being built as an organization, I knew it was going to be big and make significant changes, and I wanted to be a part of that. Many people have lost their loved ones due to a lack of education about fentanyl. Hope Above Fear aims to provide that education and awareness, and I'm proud to contribute to this mission.
How Has Volunteering Impacted Your Life?
Volunteering has impacted my life tremendously. I used to be one of those kids who thought I was invincible to the dangers of drugs because I thought I was "having fun." However, learning about fentanyl and its dangers through someone else's painful experience was a wake-up call. Through volunteering, I've learned a lot and connected with others, which has motivated me to push myself to be a better person. It’s been a transformative experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important cause.
- Tommy Bucco
Why Do You Volunteer?
I volunteer for Hope Above Fear because it is deeply personal to me. The organization was created in memory of my close friend Isaiah who tragically lost his life to fentanyl and substance abuse. Witnessing and experiencing the devastating impact of addiction first-hand, I felt compelled to take action and make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles.
Volunteering allows me to honor his memory and create a positive impact in the fight against substance abuse. By raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and advocating for addiction prevention and support, I hope to prevent others from experiencing the same heartache that affected my friend and his loved ones.
How Has Volunteering Impacted Your Life?
Volunteering for Hope Above Fear is not just an obligation, it is a calling driven by love and compassion. It empowers me to channel my grief into meaningful action and contribute to a cause that truly matters. I believe that through our collective efforts, we can save lives, offer hope, and build a brighter future for those impacted by addiction.
My journey as a volunteer with Hope Above Fear has been one of healing, resilience, and hope. It allows me to carry Isaiah's memory with me every step of the way, and I am determined to continue spreading awareness, fostering compassion, and supporting those impacted by addiction. The impact this organization has had on my life is immeasurable, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a cause that means so much to me and countless others.