Dallas, TX — September 23, 2024 — Dallas Hope Charities is proud to announce the success of its participation in Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day 2024, raising $7,672 to provide vital resources for LGBTQIA+ youth in need. These funds will directly support initiatives aimed at offering safe housing and essential life services to individuals like Emma, who have faced significant hardships.
Meet Emma: A Journey from Homelessness to Hope
Emma moved to Texas seeking better opportunities—higher wages, better schools, and a supportive queer community. However, her life took a difficult turn when her home caught fire, leaving her homeless and living in her car. Struggling with anxiety and depression, Emma found it hard to stay hopeful. But that all changed when she found Dallas Hope Charities.
Through the Dallas Hope Center, Emma gained stability, and with renewed focus on her personal and professional growth, she is now pursuing her dream of becoming an Ultrasound Technician. Emma’s story is a testament to the power of support and community.
More Stories of Impact
Emma’s story is just one of many. Throughout the campaign, Dallas Hope Charities shared the stories of other individuals who have benefited from the community’s generosity:
These stories reflect the profound difference your donations have made in the lives of LGBTQIA+ youth, providing them with safe housing, career opportunities, and the hope of a brighter future.
How the Funds Will Be Used
The $7,672 raised will be used to:
“We are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of our supporters,” said Tamika Perry, CEO of Dallas Hope Charities. “Each story—whether it’s Emma’s, Oscar’s, or Sofia’s—represents the real-life impact your donations make. Thank you for helping us continue our mission to instill dignity, stability, and hope.”
Ongoing Efforts and How to Get Involved
Dallas Hope Charities remains committed to serving the LGBTQIA+ community year-round. Those who are inspired by these stories and wish to make a difference can continue to support Dallas Hope Charities by visiting www.dallashopecharities.org.
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About Dallas Hope Charities
Dallas Hope Charities is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving LGBTQIA+ youth through transitional housing, life skills training, and emotional support. By providing resources that promote dignity, stability, and hope, Dallas Hope Charities empowers individuals to overcome homelessness and build brighter futures.
© 2026 | Dallas Hope Charities
With over seven years of experience as a civil engineer, Hector Pietro designs roadways, pedestrian and bike facilities, and stormwater systems that support safety, economic development, and sustainability in the community. In 2024, he was selected to join the Communities Foundation of Texas’s Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy Cohort, which inspired him to pursue a deeper impact in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Hector felt compelled to join an organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, and affirming services to LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness. The mission of Dallas Hope Charities—instilling dignity, stability, and hope—immediately resonated, and he knew he had to be part of it.
Impact and Passion
Hector is excited to serve on the Dallas Hope Charities Board of Directors alongside a group of passionate leaders with deep experience expanding the organization’s reach to LGBTQIA+ youth. He thrives in spaces filled with accomplished, driven individuals and was drawn to the board after reviewing data on DHC’s community impact. He firmly believes that loving those in need while they are learning to love themselves is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community.
Fun and Personal Touch
Hector taught himself to decorate sugar cookies using royal icing by watching TikTok videos—and has since become quite skilled, considering each one a miniature, edible work of art.
Favorite Quote: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill
He hopes to see the Hope Center’s capacity expand and believes that can happen by increasing community awareness about the urgent need for DHC’s services—ultimately inspiring more donors and volunteers to take action. Grateful for the opportunity to serve, Hector is motivated to help drive that growth.
