Meet our volunteers
- 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.
- Sarah Skipper
Why Do You Volunteer?
I volunteer because I believe in Hope Above Fear. I watched the founder, and my dear friend Stephanie, spend years tirelessly seeking help for her son, Isaiah. I was also present to support her and her two daughters on the day Isaiah took his final breath. I know how important it is for our youth and parents to be aware of Fentanyl, and have a place to go for help, something that Isaiah wasn't offered.
How Has Volunteering Impacted Your Life?
Volunteering has been very eye-opening for me. My chest is heavy as I talk with people about their loss, but also, my heart filled as we discuss hope for the future. Being a part of as many awareness events as possible has played a huge role in my personal healing journey. I believe Hope Above Fear has and will continue to save lives. I am honored to help further their mission.
- 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.