About the Hope Effect Mission
Our Founding Vision
Hope Effect began with a simple conviction: that real hope is shown through action. What started as a small outreach of compassion has grown into a movement helping families across Tampa Bay find stability, dignity, and care. Built on a foundation of faith and community partnership, our vision remains the same—to meet needs, build bridges, and create lasting change… one life at a time.
Meet Our Team
Genie Byrd
Board Director
I’m Genie, and I’ve been part of Hope Effect since its beginning in 2013. My husband, James, and I live in Augusta, Georgia, where we enjoy our growing family—three children, thirteen grands, and four great-grands, including two precious children who recently joined us from Haiti. After 34 years in education as a teacher, counselor, and principal, I’m now fulfilling my dream as a children’s book author and motivational speaker. I also love serving with Project Linus, creating blankets for children in grief. Being part of Hope Effect allows me to continue living out my passion for helping families experience compassion, care, and the lasting power of hope.
Tony Byrd
Board Director
I’ve been honored to serve on the Hope Effect Board since its inception in 2013. Whether it’s through food and clothing distribution to the under-resourced, helping children access quality education, or other outreach initiatives, I’m grateful for how the Hope Effect team impacts the Tampa Bay community on a daily basis, shares the love of Christ in practical and tangible ways, and reminds everyone that HOPE always has the final word. On a personal note, I’m happily married to Heather, I’m the father of 4 amazing kids (and some in-laws), and I serve as Lead Pastor of MorningStar Church of Tampa.
Carol Jean-Felix
Board Director
I’m Carol Jean-Felix, and it’s been a joy to serve on the Hope Effect Board since 2022. Originally from New Jersey and the daughter of Dominican immigrants, I’m deeply grateful for the legacy and values passed down through generations that continue to shape who I am. I’m a proud mom of two—one in college and one in middle school—and I currently work in Managed Health Care. I have a heart for people and love finding common ground through everyday connection. Having seen firsthand how vital food, shelter, and support can be, I’m passionate about helping bridge gaps and bring hope to families across the Tampa Bay community.
Dee Dee Mackenzie
Treasurer
My name is Dee Dee Mackenzie and I’ve served on the Hope Effect Board of Directors as Treasurer since 2016. I’m a native of New Jersey and fell in love with nonprofits when I was a teenager. I was inspired by serving as a volunteer for the Special Olympics, YMCA, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters which gave me a deep passion for charitable work. I graduated with a BA in Economics and Business Administration and moved to Florida to escape the cold temperatures of the northeast. I met my husband Aaron in Florida and we now have two beautiful school age daughters. It’s an honor to serve on the Board where the mission aligns with my personal lifelong passions.
Stephanie Parker
Board President
It’s an honor to serve with the Hope Effect team and to join God in bringing compassion, dignity, and hope to families in our community. With over 25 years in leadership and 15 in ministry, I lead with conviction, heart, and a love for people that’s refreshingly direct. My passion is to build unity and strengthen alliances—because impact is always greater where unity is found. I’m grateful to serve alongside my husband, Scott, as together we work to bring hope, healing, and possibility to every life we touch.
Get In touch
Leave us a message