Game 4 P.E.A.C.E alumnus Jacquelyn Bethea, born in Philadelphia, serves as the pastor of Anchor of Hope Worship Center and the executive director of Anchor of Hope Community Development Corporation. With over 55 years of dedication, she is a retired social worker and a prominent community activist, having worked with numerous organizations in the Germantown community, including the Germantown Community Collaborative Board, Faith Community Development Corporation, 7G’s Community Development Association, and Morton Homes Community Development Corporation.

Pastor Bethea is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where she majored in sociology, and holds degrees in theology from Jamison Bible Institute, Maine Bible Institute, Manor Bible Institute, and Philadelphia College of Bible. Her guiding affirmation is, “There is no me without you.”

Currently, Pastor Bethea serves as a social worker for the senior community, maintaining a profound love for young people. Her passion for anti-violence initiatives emerged from personal tragedy—the loss of her grandsons to gun violence and incarceration. This tragic experience inspired her to establish the “The E.Y.E. Empowering Youth Editorials Initiative.” Her grandson, Leroy Riddick, wrote the theme, “Pens Up, Guns Down, We Don’t Fight, We Write!” and laid the foundation for the initiative. This 8 week program aimed to inspire youth to channel their energies into writing instead of fighting, fostering positive change in the community.

Pastor Bethea’s dedication to anti-violence initiatives is not only professional but deeply personal. The violent deaths of her grandsons and the loss of one to the penal system profoundly shaped her mission. She has become a voice for families affected by violence, tirelessly working to create safe spaces and opportunities for young people to express themselves constructively. Her initiatives have reached countless young individuals, offering them a platform to share their stories and find healing through creative expression.

In her current role as a social worker for seniors, Pastor Bethea continues to embody her commitment to service. She provides support and care to the elderly, ensuring they receive the respect and attention they deserve. Her work in this area highlights her versatility and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those around her, regardless of age.

Pastor Bethea’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her community service and activism, recognizing her tireless efforts and significant impact. Her life’s work stands as a testament to her belief in the power of community, compassion, and the written word.

Her guiding principle, “There is no me without you,” reflects her belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of supporting one another. Pastor Jacquelyn Bethea’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making her community a better place for all.