WHO WE ARE

Our
Mission & Values

Our Vision: TO BUILD CONFIDENCE, DELIVER, HOPE AND PRESENT OPPORTUNITIES

Like many other organizations, we saw a need for youth activities, education resources, and a safer environment for the children to gather in the community.

Founded in 2020, here it is 2021 and we have officially formed our organization to provide the necessary and essential needs for our growing youth.

Our Board

The members of our board of directors are thought leaders who have made a significant contribution to our society. Each and every one of them brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our organization.

Leslie Davis

Mrs. Davis, the Founder and President of A Reason To Dream, was inspired by the support her children received from community organizations and her own childhood experiences. A native of Hearne, TX, she values promoting positive youth development. Holding an Associate's Degree in Health Care Administration/Medical Records and a Bachelor's in Business from the University of Phoenix, and Real Estate Certificates from Champion School of Real Estate, she's employed at Brazos Valley Council of Governments for 8 years. Passionate about supporting the community, Mrs. Davis, married to Christopher Davis, is a mother to four daughters and has long-term goals for supporting youth and families in her community.
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Jodi Cooks

Jodi Cooks, aged 35, is a dedicated mother to a 14-year-old son and a 3-year-old daughter. Driven by a passion for helping others, she has found her calling in her current role as a Homeless Services Case Manager at The Twin City Mission. She holds an associate's degree in Health and Administration and a bachelor's degree in Health and Human Services. Looking ahead, Jodi plans to further her education by completing her Master's degree.
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Teresa Rucker

Teresa Lynn Young Rucker, born in 1961 in Oklahoma, is one of ten siblings and a graduate from Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School. She furthered her education in Music and Mathematics in Texas. After marrying Mamon Rucker, Jr. in 1994, she became a mother to 11 children and now has numerous grandchildren. She has served various roles in education and administration, and is currently a Payroll Tax Specialist. Dedicated to her community, she is involved in church activities, youth programs, and performs at public events. Her philosophy centers on the joy of serving others.
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Haley Russell

I am Haley Russell, a Junior Forensic and Investigative Sciences major at Texas A&M University, and hope to attend medical school in the future to pursue Forensic Pathology. I am currently the Historian for the Pre-Medical Society on campus and am excited to branch out into my new role with A Reason to Dream. As a student at A&M, I see first hand the discrepancies that are present in our education system as a result of limited resources and support for students. As a liaison between volunteers at A&M and the new tutoring initiative with Hearne ISD, I hope to bring new mentorship and support to students in need in order to prove to them that their dreams are attainable and that we will be there to support them every step of the way.
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