Hello change maker,

Beginning the first week of each month, Spark HOPE Edu will spotlight a story of #HOPEinAction—and we’d love your help.

Just hit “reply” and share a moment where you’ve seen HOPE in Action—in your school, your organization, or your own life.

HOPE in Action is what happens when the pillars behind the System of H.O.P.E.—Habits, Optimism, Purpose, and Excellence—move beyond ideas and into intentional action.

It’s choosing to build healthier routines.
It’s finding possibility, even in the tough moments.
It’s leading with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
It’s doing the small things—consistently—that create meaningful change.

Whether you’re a leader, a teacher, or someone making a difference in your community, #HOPEinAction is about living your values—and watching the ripple effects uplift those around you.

Here’s our first story… we hope it gives you some ideas to spark hope today!

Let me tell you about a coaching client—we’ll call her Jordan.

When we started working together, Jordan was in survival mode.

She’s a passionate school leader, deeply committed to her staff and students—but running on empty.

“I feel like I’m failing everyone,” she confessed during our first session. “

No matter how much I give, it never feels like enough.” Jordan wasn’t alone in that feeling. Many leaders carry invisible weight—pressure, guilt, responsibility—and it builds over time.

So, we didn’t start with a strategy or a spreadsheet.

We started with one question: “What’s one small habit you could shift to give yourself room to breathe?” She paused.

Then said: 💬 “Honestly? I could stop checking my email first thing in the morning. Maybe take that time to reflect, pray, meditate… something for me.”

So she did. Just two weeks later, something had changed. Jordan showed up to our next session with a quiet confidence. A lighter presence.

“Brandi… that one shift changed everything. I’m starting the day grounded, not reactive. I’m journaling. I feel more like me again. And my team? They feel it too.”

That’s just one, simple example of #HOPEinAction.

Not a big lift or a massive change. Just one intentional decision… made consistently.

And the ripple? It reached everyone around her.✨

Want to Put HOPE in Action This Week?

Here’s how:

H – Habit: Identify one routine that drains you—and consider a healthier swap.

O – Optimistic Outlook: Catch yourself in a negative spiral and ask, “What else could be true?”

P – Purpose, Passion & Perseverance: Reconnect with why you started and who you’re becoming.

E – Excellence: Show up today as the best version of you—not perfect, just present.

Remember: You don’t need a full reset. Sometimes, all it takes is a single shift to spark real change

💡 Your Turn:

What’s one small act of HOPE you’ll put in motion this week?

Hit reply and tell us. We may feature your story in our next “HOPE in Action” spotlight!

Go to social media and tell us about your HOPE in Action! Tag it with #HOPEinAction

Book Dr. Kelly for Back-to-School PD: Spots filling fast →

Learn More

📚 Lead with H.O.P.E. Book Study – Now Forming!
Only TWO weeks until we begin!

Are you ready to spark meaningful change in your personal and professional life?

The Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy Book Study is forming right now, and you’re invited to be part of this transformational journey.

✅ Discover practical strategies to build habits, cultivate optimism, lead with purpose, and pursue excellence.
✅ Connect with a community of passionate educators and leaders.
✅ Take action—not just inspiration.

👉 Spots are limited, and we’re kicking off soon—don’t wait!

📩 Click here to sign up or learn more

Let’s build a system of HOPE—together.

**“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”**
— *1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)*

This weekend, I spent meaningful time with my family—sharing laughter, conversation, and simple moments that reminded me what truly matters. As I reflected on 1 Peter 4:8, *“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins,”* I was reminded that deep love isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, grace, and choosing connection. Family love, even in its imperfect form, is one of life’s greatest gifts.

**“True leadership begins in service—when we uplift others with heart, hope, and humility, we spark change that lasts.”**

True leadership isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about serving others with genuine care and intention. When we lead by lifting others up, we create spaces where hope can grow, people feel valued, and communities thrive. Service rooted in heart and humility builds trust and inspires lasting change. That’s the kind of leadership Spark HOPE Edu champions—one that sparks transformation by putting others first.

With ❤️ and HOPE,

Brandi Kelly, Ed.D., LCSW

Chief HOPE Officer, Spark HOPE Edu, LLC