It Started with One Person & One Purpose
There is no shortage of good people doing quiet, extraordinary work in our community. But every so often, someone builds something so rooted in compassion and persistence that it becomes more than a service. It becomes a lifeline.
That is what Nancy’s Hope has become.
If you know Nancy Scott, then you already know she is one of those people who gets things done before most of us even finish our coffee. She saw people in need. Seniors living out of their cars. Families skipping meals. Parents barely hanging on. And she decided that doing nothing was not an option.
So she got to work.
Nancy Scott and Hazel from GSAC (Give Someone A Chance Shower and Laundry Bus Program)
Nancy did not wait for a big grant or a government program. She opened her garage and started helping people. Over time, that garage effort turned into a full nonprofit with a thrift store, an outreach program, school supply drives, and support services for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. And it is all fueled by kindness, donated goods, and a lot of elbow grease.
It is one of the most effective grassroots operations in Tuolumne County. And it is powered by love. No fine print. No red tape. Just love.
A Personal Note
This year, I had the chance to volunteer and participate at the inaugural Nancy’s Hope Music Festival. I got the opportunity to play my guitar, sing a few songs, and watch the community come together in the best possible way. There were hugs, smiles, hot meals, music, and a deep sense of shared humanity. Kids were playing. Seniors smiling. Volunteers were everywhere you looked.
It was a beautiful thing. I was honored to be a part of it.
Nancy Believes We All Deserve More
That is not just my slogan. It is the way she moves through the world.
Nancy is doing what we all wish more people would do, putting her energy into lifting others up. Not just during the holidays, but all year long. Her organization helps with clothing, food, hygiene items, school supplies, and survival kits. She keeps people warm in winter. She helps them find dignity again. She reminds them that someone cares.
And she does it with a smile and a mountain of donated socks.
How We Can Help
Clay’s Moving and Nancy’s Hope came together for a successful Toy and Food Drive
Nancy’s Hope is not some massive nonprofit with a big operating budget. It is a community engine that depends on donations and volunteer hours. Here are a few easy ways to support it:
Right now there’s Operation Christmas Toy Drive, donate to make someone’s Christmas! - Click Here
Drop off warm clothing, sleeping bags, hygiene supplies - Click Here
Volunteer a couple of hours a week if you are able - Click Here
Shop at the thrift store so your dollars stay local - Click Here
Make a small donation online to keep the work going - Click Here
Share their story with someone who might need their help
Whether you are donating time, money, or gently used coats, it makes a real difference. This is a great way to make the holidays mean something for someone else.
Hope Looks Like Nancy
In a time when a lot of people feel forgotten, Nancy’s Hope reminds us what showing up looks like. It is not flashy. It is not complicated. It is just good people helping other good people make it through.
I am grateful for the work Nancy does. And I hope we can all take a cue from her this season… to do a little more for each other and expect a little better for everyone.
With hope,
Tim
