First H.O.P.E. Expo brings resources, families together
There were princesses, games, and giveaways.
But Meridian’s first H.O.P.E. Expo offered far more than family fun. The inaugural event gave caregivers, educators, and community members tools and connections to better support their loved ones.
The H.O.P.E. Expo—Harnessing Opportunities for People Everywhere—was created to link area residents with vital health and wellness resources. It was hosted by Meridian Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, MCC’s Special Olympics Club, Fifteenth Avenue Baptist Church, and The S.P.O.T.
“Our goal for the expo is exactly what our name says—we want to give families hope, not just in our area but everywhere,” said Candice Coker, president of The S.P.O.T. and a special needs mom. “We want caregivers, teachers, and ministry leaders to know how to help these families, or even help themselves.”
Coker explained that finding information can be overwhelming. “We all have a full life and a home load to carry,” she said. “If we can ease that burden by putting all that information in one place, then we’ve done a service to everyone who comes to the H.O.P.E. Expo.”
Held in Meridian Community College’s Graham Gymnasium, the expo featured more than 40 vendors offering informational materials and personal consultations. Sensory-friendly spaces in Ivy-Scaggs Hall gave participants areas to relax and enjoy entertainment.
“H.O.P.E. stands for Harnessing Opportunities for People Everywhere,” Coker added. “Families with special needs members or caregivers sometimes feel isolated or unsupported. We believe everyone, regardless of ability, age, or where they live, should have access to the resources they need to care for their loved ones. This event is about giving hope and letting hope take flight.”
Phyllis Holladay, MCC Eagle Scholars Program coordinator and co-advisor to Phi Theta Kappa and the Phil Hardin Foundation Honors College, emphasized that this is just the beginning. “The H.O.P.E. Expo is part of Phi Theta Kappa’s college project this year,” she said. “Our goal is for this to become an annual event—one that grows larger and serves even more families in the future. We’re excited to be able to serve.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/ptk.