History

Duffy's Hope Inc., originally Duffy's Foundation, was founded by Allen "Duffy" Samuels who grew up on Wilmington’s Eastside. A graduate of Glasgow High School, Duffy pursued a successful college basketball career earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Services & Counseling. Since its inception in 1998, Duffy's Hope has provided mentoring, prevention, intervention and academic support to youth ages 12—18 throughout New Castle County. Duffy's own "coaching" approach, combined with consistent and caring support of adult mentors, has allowed Duffy’s Hope programs to serve well over 2,500 school-aged children.

More than 10 years later, Duffy's Hope continues to provide intellectual, emotional and interpersonal growth opportunities for youth and their families through advocacy, education, mentoring and community outreach. Duffy's Hope, Inc. offers community and culturally based programs where individualized adolescent driven plans are developed. The programs are designed to meet the needs of youth to promote success, safety and performance in the home, school and community. Our volunteers work with a "whatever it takes" approach with youth and families to create individualized plans that cover the entire range of life situations, including financial literacy, parent resources, education and family recreation. Mentors are recruited from corporate, grassroots and faith-based community organizations throughout New Castle County with diverse backgrounds representing local demographics.

Youth and families in the H.O.P.E. program participate in numerous volunteer events and community based programs throughout the year. Duffy's Hope annual community events include youth HIV/AIDS forum, Celebrity Basketball Benefit Game, Celebrity Softball Benefit Game, and Youth Summit.