Curtis Henderson, Jr. is a Kinston native and a man on a mission. In February he put out a call to the Kinston community to participate in an Easter basket and book drive for distribution to local youth. He currently has received 215 Easter baskets and 100 books.

Hope to Destiny for Youth, a Kinston nonprofit organization founded by Henderson in 2021, is sponsoring an Easter Baskets and Books giveaway for youth in the community on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at 12:00 noon at 611 North McLewean Street in Kinston.

Henderson said that the inspiration for the giveaway came from his childhood memories of sharing the Easter baskets that his mother Eunice bought for him with friends in his neighborhood who did not receive one.

Hope to Destiny is committed to lighting the candle of hope for our youth’s future. According to Henderson, “What we do is work with kids and educate them on the negative impact of gang violence, gun violence, and substance abuse. Most things dealing with guns and gangs all stem from substance abuse.

The organization also provides resources in the community. Henderson stated, “We have touched a lot of youth in our community. In 2022, we gave out school supplies; 200 book bags, coats and sneakers to the youth and less fortunate adults in Kinston.

Henderson received the President’s Volunteer Service Award at a MLK Holiday celebration in Greenville on January 16, 2023. The Points of Light Foundation recognition presented by ENC Nonprofit Partners, Inc. seeks to provide public recognition to local community leaders who are making a difference in the ENC nonprofit community.

Henderson proudly shared that his personal motto is Help me help a child!

For more information about Hope to Destiny for Youth, please call 252-560-9228 or email hopetodestiny@gmail.com.