At Hope Services, we believe in the power of community and the impact of storytelling. One of our dedicated volunteers, Mama-T, has been using her photography skills to capture the heart of our mission—bringing hope, joy, and opportunity to those we serve.

Mama-T is a seasoned wedding, family, and event photographer who has been capturing love, laughter, and real-life moments since 2011. She first discovered HopeTHRIFT in Watsonville during one of her secondhand treasure hunts. As she learned more about Hope Services, she was inspired by the depth of support we provide to the community. Wanting to contribute beyond shopping, she began volunteering her time and talent behind the camera.

“Photography isn’t just about pictures—it’s about storytelling,” says Mama-T. “And when it comes to organizations like HOPE, those stories deserve to be told.”

Her work has helped showcase the impact of Hope Services, connecting new volunteers, inspiring donors, and celebrating the resilience and achievements of our clients. One of her most memorable experiences was capturing a “day in the life” session with a Hope Services client—a visually-impaired woman—during a home visit.

“The employee assisting her wasn’t just providing support—he was nurturing creativity, encouraging her artistic side through weaving and even curating DJ sets with her favorite music,” she recalls. “Capturing that moment—her hands skillfully weaving, the calm joy on her face as she listened to music—was incredibly moving. It was a beautiful reminder of how creativity connects us all, no matter our circumstances.”

For those considering volunteering their skills for a cause they care about, Mama-T offers this advice: “Do it! When you align yourself with a cause you believe in, it not only benefits others—it enriches your own life. You meet incredible people, gain new perspectives, and experience moments that stay with you forever.”

She leaves us with one of her favorite quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

At Hope Services, we are grateful for volunteers like Mama-T who help us tell the stories that matter. Interested in using your skills to make a difference?

To learn more about Mama T and her photography business, please click the image below.