Denise Hankins, Andy Roddick Foundation

This month’s Spotlight shines on Denise Hankins, a dedicated and compassionate leader in OST who has spent the last 11 years making a difference. For several years now, she has been assisting the Andy Roddick Foundation’s summer camp program. Her journey into OST began unexpectedly. What started as a one-time favor to a friend quickly blossomed into a calling she never imagined.

Reflecting on her own childhood experiences, she shared struggles from her school days that shaped the way she connects with youth now. She sees herself in many of the students she serves and is driven by a desire to help guide them down a better path. Her aim is simple: “Build relationships, build community, get to know their families, and just be there for them.

One powerful example of her impact came when she noticed a young man who seemed to be struggling one day. She approached him gently, offering support. He was hesitant, but eventually opened up. While talking to him, the young man realized Denise had helped him before with a similar issue. From not remembering the previous moment, to realizing they’d connected before over the same issues gave her chills. By the end of their interaction, his entire demeanor had shifted. It was a reminder of how deep and lasting even small moments of connection can be.

Denise’s greatest hope is simple yet powerful: to reach a child and help them believe in their future. That’s how she knows she’s made an impact. Even in situations where she’ll never see the outcomes herself, she continues to show up, knowing the encouragement she provides can give youth hope for the future.

Her most important piece of advice for other OST professionals is to never forget to smile and laugh. Everyone needs to encourage themselves first so they can encourage others. In her words, “You were a child once. You had obstacles. We all have a story, and we’re all on our own journey.” Her reminder is clear: at the end of the day, we’re all here “to shine the light of hope onto others to continue with their journeys and tell their stories.”