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Empowering Women. Restoring Hope.

Hoover’s Halo champions the dignity, rights, and resilience of incarcerated women and parolees. Our holistic programs offer wellness, skills, and support for a brighter, independent future.

Holistic Wellness & Support

Empowering Women & Veterans on Their Journey

Hoover’s Halo offers compassionate programs blending professional counseling, coaching, and skills-building—supporting dignity, resilience, and independent living for formerly incarcerated women, parolees, and veterans.

Professional Counseling

Licensed counselors provide trauma-informed care, helping women heal, build self-worth, and manage life's challenges with dignity.

Life Coaching & Mentorship

Personalized coaching and mentorship foster confidence, goal-setting, and community—guiding each participant toward a hopeful future.

Skills Development

Practical workshops and classes build workplace, life, and digital skills—preparing women and veterans for lasting independence.

Spiritual Guidance

Optional faith-based support and mindfulness practices nurture hope, self-reflection, and spiritual well-being for all backgrounds.

Restorative Justice Approach

Programs built on restorative justice foster accountability and community healing, supporting successful reintegration and lasting change.

About Hoover's Halo

Empowering Women. Restoring Hope.

Hoover's Halo is a nonprofit rooted in Athens, Texas, dedicated to uplifting incarcerated women, parolees, and veterans through holistic wellness and reintegration programs. We champion dignity, resilience, and social awareness—providing counseling, life coaching, skills development, and spiritual guidance to foster lasting independence and break the cycle of recidivism. Our mission is to walk beside every woman, affirming her worth and supporting her journey toward a brighter, self-sufficient future.

Our Mission

We empower women impacted by incarceration to rebuild their lives with confidence and compassion. Through comprehensive wellness initiatives and reintegration support, we nurture resilience, independence, and social awareness—equipping each participant to thrive. Our Athens, Texas campus offers a safe space for healing and growth, while our programs are tailored to address unique challenges, foster self-discovery, and promote community belonging.

Together, we break barriers and bridge hope, helping women move forward with courage and purpose. Our vision is a future where every woman has the opportunity to reclaim her story and contribute meaningfully to society.

Support group of resilient women in a welcoming environment
Athens, Texas campus exterior with inviting atmosphere
Professional counseling session fostering hope and trust
Skills workshop with women learning together and supporting each other

Our Impact


Women Empowered
500+
Programs Delivered
30
Veterans Housed
50+
Recidivism Rate Reduction
60%

Meet Our Leadership

Our team brings lived experience, advanced expertise, and deep compassion to every woman we serve. Together, we foster healing, dignity, and hope for women and veterans rebuilding their lives.

  • Portrait of Elnora Hernandez, founder of Hoover's Halo

    Elnora Hernandez

    Founder & Executive Director

    Ph.D. Candidate (Psychology), Prison Fellowship Ambassador, Evangelist, Advocate for Women & Civil Rights, Formerly Incarcerated

  • Portrait of Maya Carter, trauma recovery counselor

    Maya Carter

    Lead Counselor, Trauma Recovery

    MSW, specializes in trauma-informed therapy and restorative justice for women.

  • Portrait of Danielle Brooks, certified life coach

    Danielle Brooks

    Certified Life Coach

    Former participant, now guiding women in building confidence and independence.

  • Portrait of Rev. Gloria Evans, spiritual guide

    Rev. Gloria Evans

    Spiritual Guide & Chaplain

    Ordained chaplain offering guidance, faith, and support for personal growth.

  • Portrait of Simone Lee, veteran peer mentor

    Simone Lee

    Veteran Peer Mentor

    Army veteran, leads wellness and reintegration for women with military backgrounds.

Hoover's Halo logo

“Before Hoover’s Halo, I felt lost and invisible. Their counselors and group programs showed me I’m worthy of a second chance. Today, I have hope, a job, and a supportive community. I’m living proof that healing is possible when someone truly believes in you.”

Smiling woman, former participant at Hoover's Halo
Marissa T.
Program Graduate, Athens TX

Frequently Asked Questions

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our support team.

Who can apply for reintegration programs at Hoover’s Halo?
Our programs are open to formerly incarcerated women, parolees, women with criminal records, and veterans seeking support to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.
What types of housing support are available?
We offer safe, supportive residential housing for veterans and independent living options for women transitioning back into the community. Our housing fosters stability, self-reliance, and a sense of belonging.
Is counseling or mental health support provided?
Yes. We provide professional counseling, trauma-informed care, and life coaching to help participants heal, grow, and develop the skills needed for personal and social success.
Do you offer job training or skill development?
Absolutely. Our programs include job readiness workshops, life skills classes, and opportunities for personal growth, empowering participants to achieve independence and meaningful employment.
How can I access ongoing support after leaving the program?
Support doesn’t end with graduation. Alumni have access to ongoing mentorship, resources, and a compassionate peer network to encourage lasting wellness and successful reintegration.