Our Mission & Vision Statement
Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower families by providing housing support, educational resources, and financial literacy programs that create pathways to long-term stability and success. Through holistic services and community collaboration, we help families break the cycle of poverty and build brighter futures.
Vision Statement
We envision a thriving community where every family has the tools, resources, and support they need to achieve financial independence, educational success, and a stable, fulfilling life. At Come to Life, we believe in transforming lives by fostering opportunities for growth, resilience, and empowerment.
Meet the Founder and CEO of Come to Life
Venus Hamlett
My journey to founding Come to Life has been shaped by my experiences as a mother, wife, and daughter, all of which have deeply impacted my drive to help others change the trajectory of their lives.
I was born to my parents, who married at the young age of 18 and had me at 19. By the time they were 22, they had two more daughters. Growing up, our family struggled economically due to my parents' young age and limited resources. When I was 8, my father developed a drug habit, which ultimately left my mother to raise us as a single parent. Despite the challenges, my mother worked hard and went to school to obtain higher education, determined to provide us with a better future.
Following in my parents’ footsteps, I had my first two children at the age of 19 and 21, which brought its own set of challenges. For 7 years, I struggled with the realities of being a young mother. Even after meeting and marrying my husband, Irving Hamlett Jr., whom I’ve been blessed to be with for 14 years, we continued to face economic hardships. That’s when I made the decision to return to school, earning an associate’s degree, followed by a bachelor’s degree, all in pursuit of a more stable and fulfilling life for my family.
These experiences — from witnessing my mother’s perseverance to navigating my own struggles — have fueled my passion to help others in similar situations. I founded Come to Life with a mission to empower individuals and families facing hardship, providing them with the support they need to change their life trajectory, just as I did. My goal is to give others the tools and guidance to break the cycle of poverty and build brighter futures for themselves and their children.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Laurel Graham
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Arthur Sales Jr.
Laurel Graham is a Licensed Professional Counselor-R (LPC-R) with a deep passion for serving her community. She is dedicated to empowering individuals by offering support and connecting them with essential resources. Laurel believes that a positive perspective turns challenges into opportunities for growth. Committed to making a differen
Laurel Graham is a Licensed Professional Counselor-R (LPC-R) with a deep passion for serving her community. She is dedicated to empowering individuals by offering support and connecting them with essential resources. Laurel believes that a positive perspective turns challenges into opportunities for growth. Committed to making a difference, she is eager to contribute her skills and compassion through Come to Life, helping others achieve success and fulfillment.
Arthur Sales Jr.
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Arthur Sales Jr.
Arthur Sales Jr. brings extensive experience in IT, recreation, and security to the Come to Life Board of Directors. He holds certifications in CompTIA IT Fundamentals, is a Fishing in Parks Instructor, and a Notary Public. With a background in assisting global IT users, managing recreation programs, and serving as a security professiona
Arthur Sales Jr. brings extensive experience in IT, recreation, and security to the Come to Life Board of Directors. He holds certifications in CompTIA IT Fundamentals, is a Fishing in Parks Instructor, and a Notary Public. With a background in assisting global IT users, managing recreation programs, and serving as a security professional, Arthur is passionate about creating positive experiences and supporting community growth. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management from Radford University and is committed to empowering families through his work.
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Irving Hamlett Jr. is the Vice President of Come to Life and owner of Royalty Mobile Detailing. With over 10 years of experience in the transportation industry as a truck driver and a solid background in service delivery management, Irving is skilled in heavy equipment, hydraulic systems, and DOT regulations. A graduate of Central Virgin
Irving Hamlett Jr. is the Vice President of Come to Life and owner of Royalty Mobile Detailing. With over 10 years of experience in the transportation industry as a truck driver and a solid background in service delivery management, Irving is skilled in heavy equipment, hydraulic systems, and DOT regulations. A graduate of Central Virginia Community College in Mechanical Engineering, Irving is passionate about operations and community service, leveraging his expertise to support the mission of Come to Life.
Savion Sykes
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Irving Hamlett Jr.
Savion Sykes is currently studying Information Systems Technology at Central Virginia Community College and works as a merchandiser for Coca-Cola. As Secretary of the Come to Life Board of Directors, Savion is dedicated to helping the organization fulfill its mission through volunteer service. Eager to learn about the nonprofit sector an
Savion Sykes is currently studying Information Systems Technology at Central Virginia Community College and works as a merchandiser for Coca-Cola. As Secretary of the Come to Life Board of Directors, Savion is dedicated to helping the organization fulfill its mission through volunteer service. Eager to learn about the nonprofit sector and executive leadership, Savion contributes his time and skills to support the organization while gaining valuable experience in community service and leadership.
