At Hoodie’s House of Hope for Youth, our purpose is simple: to show up for kids and young adults who need encouragement, support, and someone who believes in them.
We work with youth who face a multitude of barriers within their community to provide mentorship, educational support, leadership development, out of school-time programming, and community outreach–helping them navigate challenges like homelessness, hunger, and limited access to resources. More than anything, we want young people to know they are seen, valued, and capable of achieving great things.
Through strong partnerships, meaningful programs, and a lot of heart, we help turn hope into actions and possibilities into futures.
Hoodie’s House of Hope for Youth was founded by Jeff Hood with a heartfelt commitment to empowering “Youth of Promise” in underserved communities across the Charlotte/Mecklenburg region. Named in loving memory of his mother, Doris “Hoodie” Hood, the organization creates opportunities for young people to dream, hope, believe, and achieve through comprehensive programs in mentoring, leadership development, education, college readiness, career exploration, and service-learning. Under Jeff’s visionary leadership as CEO and founder, Hoodie’s House delivers quality out-of-school time initiatives, group mentoring, community celebrations, and impactful service projects—including feeding events that support the homeless, underserved, and elderly—while fostering partnerships that amplify resources and opportunities for youth who need them most.
A native of Queens, New York, Jeff Hood is a proud graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College, where his standout basketball career earned him induction into the Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. His deep passion for community service has been recognized through honors such as the NBA Charlotte Hornets’ Tissot Gift of Time Community Service Person of the Year in 2018, the “Made Man” of Charlotte award, and the 2019 NOBLE Civil Rights Justice by Action for Youth of the Year. With expertise in event planning, fundraising, and grant writing—having secured over $20 million in funding—Jeff has built events like the nationally recognized Hoodie’s House National HS Hoop’s Classic and celebrity charity initiatives that directly benefit local youth. Together with his wife Gloria and daughter Maya, and supported by a dedicated board and team, Jeff continues to drive Hoodie’s House forward as a beacon of hope and opportunity in the community.
Our mission is to empower children and young adults through mentorship, education, leadership development, and community support–helping them build confidence, hope, and a path toward a bright future.
We envision a community where every child feels seen, supported, and equipped to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Faith - We serve with trust in God and love for His people.
Hope - We believe hope changes lives
Community - We are stronger when we work together.
Empowerment - We equip youth with tools to succeed.
Compassion - We lead with grace, empathy, and understanding.
Integrity - We honor God in all we do.
