About us

A small team with a big heart.

Hands of Hope was founded by students in Maryland who wanted to turn personal experiences with cancer into something positive for their community.

Our story

Hands of Hope began as a simple idea: that students can do more than fundraise - we can show up, listen, and bring real comfort to people living with cancer. From handwritten cards to thoughtfully curated care baskets, every project we run is rooted in empathy and built by volunteers our age.

Officers

Maya Simsek

President

I'm Maya Simsek, and I'm a junior at Winston Churchill High School. I play volleyball and have recently started lacrosse. I like to hang out with friends and sleep in my free time. I am proud to be a president for Hands of Hope!

Nicole Chen

President

My name is Nicole Chen and I'm a junior at Churchill. I enjoy baking in my free time and watching sitcoms; my favorite is Modern Family! I also love the color pink, jellycats, and froyo. I am excited to be a president for Hands of Hope!

Varya Voloshchuk

Vice President

I'm Varya Voloschuk, and I'm a junior at RMHS. In my free time, I love to read, watch movies, and hang out with my friends! I love trying out new hobbies and spending time outdoors. I am glad to be the vice president for Hands of Hope!

Layla Firouz

Secretary

I'm Layla Firouz and I'm a junior at WCHS. I play volleyball and my favorite color is purple! I like to volunteer at food drives and shelters around MCPS. I'm happy to be the secretary for Hands of Hope!

Amy Chen

Treasurer

My name is Amy Chen and I go to Winston Churchill High School. I like to spend time with kids and volunteer at my brother's preschool. My favorite show is Chiikawa; I really love Usagi! I am proud to be the treasurer for Hands of Hope.

Sophia Chen

Director of Communications

I'm Sophia, a sophomore at Winston Churchill High School. My favorite show is B99 and I love baking! I am so excited to be the director of communications!

Deeya Sail

Event and Outreach Coordinator

I'm Deeya, a sophomore at Winston Churchill High School. I love music, as well as baking and trying new things. I am so excited and grateful to be the Event and Outreach Coordinator!

Ali Yazdi

Information Technology Director

I'm Ali, and I'm a junior at WCHS. In my free time, I love playing soccer, spending time with my friends, and exploring new interests! I also enjoy exploring biomedicine and using technology to find new ways to help others. I'm excited and grateful to be the Information Technology Director for Hands of Hope!