Who We Are

Rebecca Hester is a practicing attorney in Poplar Bluff receiving her law degree from the University of Miami.  Previously she represented clients as Public Defender and representing children as a Guardian Ad Litem.  Currently, she practices exclusively working as a Guardian Ad Litem in Poplar Bluff and surrounding counties. 

“When working as a Public Defender, there were many times when adults at a very young age had lost hope.  They saw a future that was the same as their present.  Through my work as a Guardian Ad Litem, I often see similarities in all ages of children.  Inspire Hope is dedicated to helping both adults and children see their value and provide the confidence needed to pursue their goals.  Working together with the amazing resources in our community, I am confident that we can accomplish long-lasting positive changes.” 

Jennifer R. Williams presently serves as an Extension Engagement Specialist for the University of Missouri Extension in the Southeast Missouri region, where she engages directly with local governments, non-profits, and citizens to share education and resources available through MU Extension and its partner agencies. Prior to joining MU Extension in 2020, however, Jennifer was a practicing attorney in Southeast Missouri, practicing primarily in the areas of family law, probate, and estate planning.

“Through my job with the University of Missouri and as a practicing attorney, I see needs of both adults and children. I believe that Inspire Hope can change lives because of the focus on empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.”

Ressie Thomas serves on the board of Inspire Hope, Inc as its treasurer. Originally from Arkansas, Ressie graduated with a B.A. in Spanish and a B.A. in Economics/International Trade from the University of Central Arkansas in May 2009.  From there she attended law school at the University of Arkansas School of law earning her JD in December of 2011.  She has been licensed to practice law in Arkansas since April 2012, and to practice in Missouri since April 2016.  Presently she runs her own practice in Poplar Bluff, MO which focuses on Adoption, Estate/Succession Planning, and Corporate/LLC work.

“I am passionate about the importance of community support for children to give them the resources needed to thrive.  I also serve as Treasurer for Poplar Bluff Kiwanis, Inc. which sponsors Kiwanis Bacon Park.”

Samantha Pennington received both her law degree and LLM in Tax Law at University of Illinois – John Marshall School of Law. She practices at the law firm of Maness, Maness & Pennington Evans who have offices in Doniphan and Poplar Bluff. Her law practice focuses on estate planning, family law and juvenile law.

“In my law practice I have the opportunity to work with many of the struggling families in our community. I have seen the visceral disenchantment of both adults and children firsthand. Inspire Hope’s primary goal is to address those aspects of life that make it difficult for people to dream big. That is why I joined the board. I want to be a part of something that helps children and adults see the path to a better future.”

Jo Ann Brandon retired from the Veterans Administration after 31 years of service. A graduate of Poplar Senior High, Poplar Bluff Vocational School (LPN), Southeast Hospital School of Nursing (RN).  In my nursing career I had the opportunity to work Medical – Surgical, Urgent Care, and Utilization Review; then take those skills and be a bridge between the medical and business sides of the facility.  Served a two-year term on the Butler County Extension Council; Chaired the Meet Your Extension Committee and a 4^th of July & Christmas Parade.

Being a member of Inspiring Hope gives me the opportunity to give back what has and is being poured into me. To encourage, support and be an example to youth and adults; show them that with a little help and belief in self dreams do come true.