Together Toward Wellness

Mission
At Hesed Therapeutic & Counseling Services (HTCS), our mission is to provide compassionate, culturally responsive mental health care and educational guidance that empowers underserved children, families, and communities to heal, grow, and achieve their full potential. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children—one that honors the sacrifices and dreams of those who came before us.

The Problem
Many underserved families face significant barriers to accessing quality mental health care and academic support. These barriers are compounded by systemic inequities, cultural stigma, and a lack of resources in low-income communities. Without intervention, children and families are left struggling to overcome challenges that hinder their emotional well-being and long-term success.

Market Opportunity
The need for accessible mental health and educational services continues to rise, with over 20% of youth in the U.S. experiencing mental health challenges annually and increasing demand for holistic, culturally affirming programs. HTCS is uniquely positioned to address these needs by combining evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of the cultural and systemic challenges faced by underserved communities.

Our Story and Solution
HTCS was founded by Shawneece Rivera and her husband, united by their shared vision of empowering families and honoring the sacrifices of their parents. Shawneece holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Educational Administration, and a Master’s in School Counseling, along with Pupil Personnel Services credentials. She is a first-generation college graduate passionate about supporting children and families through a combination of education, counseling, and advocacy.

Her husband, a Mexican American and first-generation immigrant from Nayarit, came to the U.S. at six years old. Despite the challenges of being undocumented, he worked his way up to a leadership position at one of the largest construction associations in the nation. Together, they are deeply committed to creating opportunities for the next generation, building on the foundation their parents started.

HTCS provides services such as:

• Individual and family counseling to support mental health and emotional well-being.
• Academic and career readiness programs tailored to underserved youth.
• Workshops for parents and educators, equipping them to foster supportive environments for children.
• By integrating mental health, education, and community engagement, HTCS addresses the root causes of inequity and empowers families to thrive.

Why We’re Seeking Funding
To expand our impact, we are seeking funding to:

• Hire licensed counselors and educators to serve more families.
• Develop culturally affirming resources and workshops for families and schools.
• Enhance accessibility through telehealth services and community outreach programs.
• Build partnerships with local organizations to broaden our reach and sustainability.

Our Team
HTCS is led by a passionate team; together, we strive to bring a unique combination of professional expertise, lived experience, and a deep commitment to empowering families. Their shared vision is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to succeed, no matter their background or circumstances.

Thank you for hearing our mission and investing in the future we are working to create. Your contributions are not just funding a program—they are helping to break cycles of inequity and build a foundation of hope, opportunity, and resilience for generations to come. We are honored by your trust and deeply grateful for your partnership in this journey. Together, we are making a lasting difference.