Heart & Hands Award!
Our Incredible Founder & Executive Director Won the Heart & Hands Award This Year!
Nick Gonzales, the founder and executive director of Stone of Hope Youth, was recently awarded the Utah Philanthropy Day Heart & Hands Award 2022 for his outstanding contributions to his community. The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to philanthropy and have made a significant impact on the lives of others.
Stone of Hope Youth is a non-profit organization that provides mentoring and support to at-risk youth in Utah. The organization was founded by Gonzales in 2017 after he realized the need for positive role models and support systems for young people in his community.
Gonzales, who grew up in a low-income neighborhood, knows firsthand the challenges that many young people face. He credits his success to the positive influences in his life, including his mother and mentors who helped him stay on the right path.
With a passion for helping young people overcome their obstacles and achieve their goals, Gonzales founded Stone of Hope Youth with the goal of providing a similar support system for others. Through the organization, he has been able to mentor and guide countless at-risk youth and help them turn their lives around.
The impact of Gonzales' work has been felt throughout the community. As a preventative program, his organization helps reduce crime rates and improves the academic performance of many young people. Stone of Hope Youth also provides a safe space for young people to develop important life skills, such as leadership, communication, and conflict resolution.
In addition to his work with Stone of Hope Youth, Gonzales is also actively involved in his community. He serves as a teacher in the Granite School District and regularly stays late to work with youth who he believes can succeed despite the circumstances they were born into. His classroom at the school is often a safe haven for youth who are struggling, whether they are a part of his program or not. Teachers frequently seek advice from him, with his over 20 years of expereince with troubled youth in the Title 1 setting.
When asked about his motivation for his work, Gonzales says, "I believe that every young person deserves a chance to succeed. I want to help them realize their full potential and achieve their dreams."
Nick Gonzales is a shining example of the power of philanthropy to create positive change in our communities. His dedication and hard work have made a significant impact on the lives of many young people in Utah, and he serves as an inspiration to others who are looking to make a difference.
