About Us | Hearts and Hands

Our Story

By the end of 2021, it had become clear that the COVID-19 pandemic had created more than a public health crisis. As we listened to families, neighbors, and communities, we witnessed the emotional, economic, and relational challenges that many were carrying long after the immediate emergency had begun to subside.

Families were navigating trauma and grief. Many individuals faced anxiety about uncertain employment, changing career opportunities, and the need for new skills in a rapidly evolving workforce. Parents and children struggled with the pressures of prolonged isolation, exposing fragile family dynamics and increasing stress within the home. Substance use and mental health challenges became more visible, while many young people experienced fear, loneliness, interrupted learning, and a loss of connection during some of their most formative years.

These experiences revealed a need that extended beyond temporary relief. Communities needed healing. Families needed support. Individuals needed opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity, hope, and purpose.

In response, Hearts and Hands of Maryland was founded as a faith-based catalyst for restoration and empowerment. We believe that lasting transformation happens when compassion is paired with practical solutions and when faith inspires action.

Our mission is to walk alongside individuals and families by providing resources, education, mentoring, workforce development, digital skills training, and community connections that promote healing, strengthen family relationships, encourage self-sufficiency, expand economic mobility, and empower people to realize their God-given potential.

What began as a response to one of the most challenging seasons in recent history has grown into a lasting commitment to serve. Today, Hearts and Hands of Maryland continues to bring together faith, family, and community partners to help people move from crisis to stability, from uncertainty to opportunity, and from surviving to thriving.

Because healing changes lives. Empowerment changes futures. And together, caring hearts and helping hands can transform communities.

Board, Officers & Family

Tracey Oliver-Keyser

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Cultivating a legacy of love and community support with over 25 years of heart-led service.

Min. Chadwick Keyser, Sr.

Co-Founder & Director of Ministry Outreach

Dedicated to nurturing faith-based growth through education and

strategic mentorship.

Jessica Ballatt-Keyser

Administrative Officer

Fostering deep local connections to ensure our collective family thrives daily.

Fueled by Faith.
Strengthened by Family.

At Hearts and Hands of Maryland, our mission is more than the work we do - it is a reflection of who we are. Founded on unwavering faith in God and a deep commitment to serving others, our organization exists to bring hope, opportunity, and lasting change to underserved communities.

What makes our organization especially meaningful is that it is truly a family mission. Our founders are blessed to be supported by their children, who generously share their unique gifts, talents, creativity, and passion for service. Together, we believe that every generation has something valuable to contribute and that serving others is a legacy worth passing on.

As a family, we are committed to using our individual strengths to uplift others, strengthen families, expand opportunities, and empower people to reach their God-given potential. Whether through leadership, technology, education, mentoring, community outreach, or volunteer service, each member of our family plays a role in advancing the mission.

We believe that when faith guides our hearts and families unite in service, communities are transformed. Our prayer is that Hearts and Hands of Maryland will inspire others to serve together, give generously, and leave a legacy of compassion, hope, and empowerment for generations to come.