Today we’d like to introduce you to Haley Hunt.
Hi Haley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started in 2019 when a random girl (me!) got a really unique invite to hang out with a few kids in jail on a Monday night. After a few weeks, it became such a thing that the kids and staff would look forward to my arrival. My friends and I would show up, snacks and games in hand just ready to hang out and spend time. Unbenounced to me, the impact on the youth was so profound, the department asked us to do this for more detention centers. I realized this was my calling in life and today, The VERB Kind has brought hope to 10 juvenile detention centers in Florida, one in Alabama, and one right here in Knoxville! We aim to open more locations in Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Kentucky, Georgia, and beyond.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been many bumps in the road in this journey. Trying to rally and encourage mentors to volunteer and go into the juvenile detention centers is challenging. Making sure everyone is in compliance and encouraging people when things get tough. There have been challenges in funding and ensuring this mission can continue. In Knox County, in particular, we were told that no organizations were allowed to see the kids and that this was not something they had ever done. With determination, nudges, and knocks, Richard L Bean gave us a shot, and it has been a blessing to them and the mentors that go every week.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
There are 60k kids incarcerated, and 80% of these children are without a father. As an organization, The VERB Kind, is a mission that is impacting the lives of these kids. Its something no one is really doing, or even cares about. But you can’t really unsee the hope needed when you experience this with us. I also founded a mission-based sports accessory line called JOY BOY to inspire youth athletes to play for something bigger than themselves. I grew up with a love for music as a singer and songwriter, and spent most of my life pursuing a career in the music industry. The ups and downs of the music industry gave me an understanding of the “luck” it sometimes takes to taste success in the world of sports and entertainment, and it doesn’t always turn out the way you dream. I spent the last 10 years helping develop and launch brands from food concepts and fragrances to candles and apparel as a creative strategist and producer. Most recently, I has helped many professional athletes build their brands with fresh marketing concepts, managed player/ talent liaison, and created opportunities for connection and engagement for their off-the-field endeavors
We could discuss what matters most to you and why.
The most important thing that matters to me is making God smile. My life has been a journey of twists and turns; honestly, this is the last thing I thought I would do with my life. But wow, what an incredible dream come true that I didn’t even know I had. I opened my life to impact people, and that mission has led me to all corners of the world, influencing and inspiring others. It all led me to invite people to “Come to jail with me.” When I meet someone, usually, the first thing I do is ask them to come to jail with me. I tell them that it is rarely convenient to serve people. The ironic part is how much joy and purpose I find when they take me up on my invitation.
Pricing:
- We need donors and mentors and resources for youth.
- Donation to The VERB Kind on www.theverbkind.com
- Volunteer to be a mentor on www.theverbkind.com
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TheVERBKind.com
- Instagram: @cometojailwithme
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cometojailwithme
- Twitter: @Cometojailwithme
