MAITLAND, Fla. — For children coping with the loss of a loved one, a life-threatening illness or another traumatic experience, New Hope for Kids in Maitland provides a place where they can heal, connect with others and simply be kids. Helping make that possible is this week’s Everyday Hero, Robert Talley, a dedicated volunteer who has spent years creating a welcoming and supportive environment for hundreds of Central Florida children.
At first glance, New Hope for Kids looks like any other summer camp. Children laugh together, participate in activities and build new friendships. But behind the games and smiles is a mission centered on healing. The nonprofit serves children and families navigating grief, life-threatening illnesses and traumatic life events, offering a safe space where kids can set aside their worries, even if only for a little while.
“You come here, even if you’re in a bad mood when you arrive, by the time you leave you’re in a great mood,” Talley said. “You feel really uplifted and feel like you’ve done something good.”
That feeling has kept Talley coming back week after week. He isn’t paid, and he isn’t looking for recognition. He simply shows up, ready to help children smile. Tezmon Oehler-Williams, director of programming at New Hope for Kids, says Talley’s commitment has made him one of the organization’s most dependable volunteers.
“He is one of our most consistent volunteers,” Oehler-Williams said. “We have our groups every other week, but he comes every week because that’s how important it is to him.”
Now celebrating 30 years of serving Central Florida families, New Hope for Kids operates with just five full-time staff members while supporting hundreds of children and families each year.
That mission, Oehler-Williams says, would not be possible without volunteers.
“Volunteers are essential. We could not survive,” she said. “We have a small full-time staff of five, and we help hundreds of children and families each year, and we can’t do that without our volunteers.”
The organization offers two core programs: free grief support for children and families, and wish experiences for children facing life-threatening illnesses. No matter the program, the goal remains the same to help children rediscover hope.
“They don’t forget their worries, but they put their worries aside while they are here,” Talley said. “It is very rewarding in that regard.”
For Talley, the greatest reward isn’t the time he gives — it’s watching children regain their confidence, build friendships and leave with smiles that reflect the hope they’ve found. Through his quiet dedication and unwavering commitment to serving others, Robert Talley continues to help children heal, one smile at a time, making him this week’s Everyday Hero.