Gwen Cook, President, Hearts of Hope Stratford, CT Chapter, Stratford, CT

"If you think you are too small to make an impact, try sleeping with a mosquito."

Dalai Lama XIV

Gwen Cook has been a volunteer for years and through a simple twist of fate, became introduced to Hearts of Hope when she was a 5th grade teacher in Stratford, CT. She organized several classes to "Paint with a Purpose" for Hearts of Hope and, upon learning more about the mission, decided it was a great organization to become part of.

Gwen is a modest and highly talented individual. She created a personal blog before blogs were on the map and has integrated her talent and love for photography into what now has become the official Hearts of Hope blog.

Gwen does not consider herself a "born leader" yet, over the years, has worked tirelessly on various charitable causes near and dear to her heart. She sees herself as someone who likes to work hard in the background without being noticed and yet, her efforts and accomplishments have turned her into a role model for everyone involved with her work. She credits her mother for instilling this love of volunteerism in her when she was young. She volunteered through Brownies and Girl Scouts, volunteered in local hospitals throughout high school, in her aunt's classroom on days off from college and so much more.

For Gwen, the value and spirit of volunteering are in her blood and Hearts of Hope is fortunate to have her as part of our leadership team.