New Adventures On the Horizon For the Woods

In 2014 Hope for Opelousas was continuing to grow and we knew we were in need of a high school director. After visiting with Emanuel Woods over the phone several times it seemed clear he was the man God was bringing to join us on our journey. Emanuel’s personal story was one we envisioned for our students and his belief in the power of a positive mentor making an impact by love in the life of a child made for a perfect fit. After visiting with Emanuel we found out that it was a package deal, his soon to be wife Nasia (certainly she is the better half) was excited about becoming an intern at HFO and soon became our Elementary Director.

Over the last 4 years this beautiful couple have poured their lives into our people.  They have brought a creative energy and love that has truly made a lasting impact in the lives of our students and families. Nasia has come into her own as a director bringing excellence to our Elementary Program and going above and beyond with her commitment to our kids. From starting a basketball program, creating beautiful designs for t-shirts, to building loving relationships with our kids and modeling the love of a committed married couple, HFO is better today because of the impact of the Woods!

In December the Woods were presented with an amazing growth opportunity that would allow them to move closer to home and realize a dream of creating their own organization. In August the Woods will be moving to serve with Common Ground Montgomery, an organization with a mission and vision similar to HFO. During their first year Emanuel will be mentored by their founder Bryan Kelly and by year two the Woods will start their own organization serving youth and families in Birmingham AL. The Woods family is very excited to mix their passion for athletics and their heart for the community with this opportunity.

Please join us in saying Thank You to the Woods Family for their service! They will always be part of the HFO Family! Also, please join us in praying for their future work, their success is our success.