Meet The Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
United by a shared vision, the Hope House team works tirelessly to uplift and empower individuals and communities in need. Each member brings a unique set of skills and a heart full of passion to our collective mission. Together, we are dedicated to creating a brighter future filled with hope and opportunity. Thank you for your support and belief in our work. With your help, we are making a difference, one life at a time.
Founder and CEO of CT Hope House Inc.
RICHARD DEJESUS Biography
At the helm of Hope House, Richard DeJesus leads with a vision of compassion and empowerment. His innovative leadership style and dedication to our cause have not only set a solid foundation for our work but have also inspired a wave of change within the community. Richard's belief in the power of hope and resilience drives the entire organization forward, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
CT Hope House Inc.
Executive and Finance Director
& Bridgeport Interim Director
CT Hope House Inc.
Licensed Tax Preparer & Auditor
CT Hope House Inc.
New Haven Director
CT Hope House Inc.
Norwalk Director
Jeannette DeJesus Ojeda’s Biography
Jeannette brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and advocacy to CT Hope House Inc. With a passion for driving positive change and a commitment to community empowerment. She leads our organization with vision and dedication. Prior to joining CT Hope House Inc, she served in various capacities within the nonprofit sector, focusing on issues such as education, healthcare, spiritual care, and community service. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business management and computer science from Albertus College in New Haven CT, where she developed a strong foundation in mastering software development while also developing business acumen, management skills, and the ability to integrate technology into business processes.
She further honed her expertise through relevant professional development by taking a course in bookkeeping and church administration, complementing her degree in Business Management and Computer Science.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a keen ability to foster partnerships, mobilize resources, and implement effective strategies to address pressing social challenges. She believes in the power of collaboration and collective action to create lasting impact in the communities CT Hope House Inc serves. In her role as Executive Director, she is committed to advancing CT Hope House Inc’s mission, amplifying the voices of those we serve, and championing equity and inclusion in all aspects of our work. Her leadership inspires our team and stakeholders to strive for excellence, innovation, and meaningful change. Together, we are dedicated to building a brighter future for all.
Debbie Martinez Biography
Maritza Rosa traces her roots to Puerto Rico and pursued her educational journey with fervor. Starting at the Inter American University in Rio Piedras, PR, she later transferred to Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in urban bilingual education. Maritza obtained a master’s degree in education from Long Island University and a sixth-year degree from Bridgeport University, showcasing her commitment to lifelong learning.
Her professional career began in the New York Public Schools System and unfolded within the New Haven Public Schools System. Maritza held various impactful roles, including Teacher, Social Developer, Curriculum Developer, Program Manager, and Administrator Intern.
Maritza’s involvement in several organizations demonstrates her commitment to her community. Among them are Connecticut Puerto Rican Parade, ARTE Inc., Greater New Haven Arts Council, Ex-President of Latino Youth Development, and Areyto Inc. Her dedication has been duly recognized, earning her prestigious awards from organizations like the Get in Touch Foundation and New Haven Board of Alders Black and Hispanic Caucus, to name a few.
Presently, Maritza's passion for community service continues to shine as Director of Hope House New Haven. Simultaneously, she serves as a parent liaison at Conte West Hills School.
Maritza Rosa Biography
Maritza Rosa traces her roots to Puerto Rico and pursued her educational journey with fervor. Starting at the Inter American University in Rio Piedras, PR, she later transferred to Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in urban bilingual education. Maritza obtained a master’s degree in education from Long Island University and a sixth-year degree from Bridgeport University, showcasing her commitment to lifelong learning.
Her professional career began in the New York Public Schools System and unfolded within the New Haven Public Schools System. Maritza held various impactful roles, including Teacher, Social Developer, Curriculum Developer, Program Manager, and Administrator Intern.
Maritza’s involvement in several organizations demonstrates her commitment to her community. Among them are Connecticut Puerto Rican Parade, ARTE Inc., Greater New Haven Arts Council, Ex-President of Latino Youth Development, and Areyto Inc. Her dedication has been duly recognized, earning her prestigious awards from organizations like the Get in Touch Foundation and New Haven Board of Alders Black and Hispanic Caucus, to name a few.
Presently, Maritza's passion for community service continues to shine as Director of Hope House New Haven. Simultaneously, she serves as a parent liaison at Conte West Hills School.
Chaplain Kevin Polanco Biography
Chaplain Kevin Osiel Polanco has been serving Norwalk's community since 2019 and joined the International Alliance of Chaplains and Law Enforcement Inc in 2022. Alongside collaborators, he volunteers at Saint Joseph Church every Saturday, distributing food to those in need. This initiative, born from Polanco's desire to
bless others, has grown from a solo effort to a community endeavor, with volunteers generously donating their time. Polanco, also an experienced home improvement contractor with over 5 years of experience through
Polanco Drywall LLC, serves as the Norwalk’s director of the International Alliance of Chaplains and Law Enforcement Inc in Connecticut. He now extends his dedication to CT Hope House Inc., serving as Norwalk's director, furthering his commitment to making a positive impact in his community. Around 200 people benefit from the food distribution each Saturday, reflecting Polanco's unwavering commitment to serving those in need.