Johanna D. Hernandez, I

Founder, Executive Director & President

Meet Johanna, a dedicated mother of six and devoted wife, who wears many hats in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. With a background as a paramedic and firefighter, Johanna has always been driven by a deep-seated desire to serve her community. Raised in Virginia Beach amidst a bustling household, Johanna's upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion for making a difference. Despite facing challenges early on, including the unexpected responsibilities of parenthood during her high school years, Johanna's resilience and determination propelled her forward. Opting to serve her country, she joined the US Navy, where she dedicated six years to honorable service. Following her military tenure, Johanna embarked on a new chapter, embracing roles as a school bus driver, city bus driver, and eventually finding her calling in the fire department. Her unwavering commitment to community service led her to found Partners in Hope, an organization dedicated to social and environmental relief. As the founder of Partners in Hope, Johanna spearheads transformative programs, including the Garden Initiatives Program and the Wish List Program, which aim to address food insecurity and provide essential resources to those in need. Beyond her work with Partners in Hope, Johanna's dedication extends to her roles on the Virginia Task Force 2 team and her fire department's Technical Rescue Team. Johanna's journey exemplifies resilience, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to improving the lives of others. Her tireless efforts continue to make a profound impact on her community, inspiring hope and positive change at every turn.