“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
(Pictured here with his wife, Elce)
During Keith’s first visit to the islands in 2009 with his wife Elce, God placed love and compassion in his heart for Cape Verdeans and the country of Cape Verde that has inspired him to serve. In his own words, Keith said “My desire is to help as many Cape Verdeans as possible, especially the youth to realize their God-given potential and purpose leveraging my leadership experience from industry and from serving on non-profit and ministry boards.”
Elce (known as Cici in the Cape Verdean community), was born on the island of Brava in Cape Verde and immigrated to the United States as a young woman. Having grown up among many wise elders on Brava, she gained much wisdom and learned of the value of mentorship and gained an early exposure and understanding of spiritual warfare. Coupled with her learnings from biblical studies and listening to thousands of sermons over the years, Cici has developed a strong desire to benefit others through service in the community, in her local church and through the Center of Hope ministry in Cape Verde.
Together, Keith and Elce have sought to help Cape Verdeans with practical training and assistance, encouragement, ministry, and by sharing the gospel and God’s plan for salvation and purpose through Jesus Christ.
Beto (pictured here with his wife, Suzanne), was born in Cape Verde on the island of Brava and immigrated to the United States at a young age. Growing up in Rhode Island, he joined the Navy and served the United States all over the world. Beto’s inspiration to serve comes from his love for Jesus Christ and for his two homelands, the United States and Cape Verde. In his own words, Beto commented “Four decades navigating the complexities of civil and military service didn't just teach me strategy—it solidified my mission. Now, Suzanne and I are actively involved with our local church and community. As a Board Member for Cape Verde Center of Hope, I’ve shifted my focus from national defense to spiritual defense, honored to help answer the call for the sake of the gospel.” We’re so glad Beto and Suzanne are on the team!
Jacqui (pictured here with her husband David and daughter Victoria), is a second-generation Cape Verdean American, Jacqui was raised in a vibrant Cape Verdean culture and only spoke Cape Verdean Kriolu as her first language before having to learn English at the age of five. She remains deeply grateful for that foundation, which allows her to continue speaking Kriolu today and stay closely connected to her heritage. She spent over 15 years singing professionally in secular music before feeling a clear call to step away and dedicate her gifts fully to the Lord. For more than a decade, she has faithfully served as a worship leader, using her voice to glorify God and lead others into His presence. Through both her musical background and administrative gifts, she is committed to advancing God’s work and uplifting communities.
Jacy was born in Cape Verde and immigrated to the United States at the age of 12. She grew up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island and attended college in Boston. She’s married to Andy and has a grown daughter. Jacy is passionate about helping people however she can and believes kindness and support can really make a difference in people’s lives. “Even after spending the majority of my life in the US, I’ve always longed to return to Cape Verde and give back to the people and country that have always been in my heart,” says Jacy. We’re happy to have Jacy serving on our board!