Meet Our Board
Carrie Handy
Founder & Executive Director Carrie brings more than 30 years of experience in education, student support, and youth advocacy. Throughout her distinguished career, she has served as a middle school counselor, special education teacher, and instructional coach, dedicating her work to improving educational outcomes for students and strengthening the educators who serve them.
Her extensive experience working in under-resourced communities has given her firsthand insight into the barriers many children and families face and the transformative power of equitable access to quality education, mentorship, and essential resources. Carrie is a passionate advocate for creating opportunities that empower students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Her compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to educational equity make her an invaluable leader for Restoring Hope.
Yanika Daniels
Yanika brings more than 20 years of executive leadership and consulting experience, partnering with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and public sector agencies to strengthen organizations through people-centered strategy. As a trusted advisor, she has guided executive leaders and boards in developing human resources strategies, building high-performing leadership teams, and driving organizational effectiveness.
As a Board member, Yanika brings a strategic perspective grounded in operational excellence, governance, and mission-driven leadership. She is passionate about helping organizations align their people strategy with their mission, strengthen executive leadership, and create systems that foster innovation, accountability, and lasting community impact.
Board Treasuer Willie brings more than 20 years of executive administrative leadership and operational excellence in higher education. Throughout her career, she has provided trusted strategic support to senior executives, helping organizations operate more efficiently while ensuring priorities are executed with precision and professionalism.
Her expertise spans executive administration, project coordination, event and meeting management, and organizational operations. As a member of the Board, Willie offers a strong foundation in governance support and operational support.
Board SecretaryWillie Kelly