Hands of The Carpenter Announces New Name and Leadership Transition

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Faith-Based Nonprofit Rebrands as SparkHope Automotive and Prepares for CEO Succession

After more than two decades of dedicated service, growth, and impact, Hands of The Carpenter is entering a bold new chapter. The organization is proud to announce a new name—SparkHope Automotive—and a planned leadership transition as it builds on a strong foundation to expand its mission of supporting working single mothers.

While the name is new, the mission remains unchanged: to serve working single moms with dignity, excellence, and hope by addressing one of their greatest challenges—reliable transportation.

“This is a transition from a place of health and strength, not disruption,” said Dan Georgopulos, Founder and CEO. “The mission is thriving, the team is solid, and the timing feels right for me and for the organization.”

A Fresh Name with Deep Roots
The rebrand to SparkHope Automotive reflects the organization’s evolution from a church-based initiative offering home repair services to a mission-driven nonprofit focused on automotive solutions. Over the years, Hands of The Carpenter’s work became increasingly specialized in helping single mothers stay on the road and employed through vehicle placement, repairs, and maintenance.

The new name, SparkHope, captures both the practical and emotional core of the organization: “Spark” refers to the ignition that powers vehicles and transformation, while “Hope” speaks to the long-term impact of stability, opportunity, and trust.

This change also clears up confusion surrounding the original name, which no longer accurately conveyed the scope or focus of the organization’s work.

The new logo emphasizes the word HOPE, underscoring the heart of the mission. A refreshed color palette features beiges and creams for grounding, periwinkle blue for trust and optimism, and soft rose and navy as a nod to legacy branding.

Leadership Transition Planned for 2026
As SparkHope Automotive unveils its new identity, it is also preparing for a carefully planned leadership transition. Founder and CEO Dan Georgopulos will step down by May 2026. Until then, he remains fully engaged in supporting the organization and helping to onboard a new CEO.

The Board of Directors, in collaboration with SparkHope’s Leadership Team and external consultants, is leading a thoughtful and thorough search for Dan’s successor. 

“We understand that change brings questions,” said Board Chair Guy Cascella, “but this is a moment of strength, not crisis. Dan’s leadership has been extraordinary, and we are committed to building on that legacy with confidence and purpose.”

Stability and Growth Ahead
SparkHope’s programs—SHIFT, Cruise Control, and Jump Start—continue to meet the rising demand for reliable transportation among working single mothers. The rebrand and leadership planning reflect a long-term vision: to scale the impact while staying rooted in faith-based values and holistic service.

“Our work is more relevant than ever,” said Georgopulos. “We remain deeply anchored in our mission and energized by what’s ahead.”

About SparkHope Automotive
SparkHope Automotive is a faith-based nonprofit that uniquely serves working single mothers by addressing the often-overlooked issue of transportation. By providing reliable automobile placement, repair, and maintenance services, SparkHope removes one of the biggest barriers to employment and stability for single moms. The organization’s mission is to keep women safely on the road and moving toward long-term self-sufficiency.

To learn more, visit sparkhopeautomotive.org.

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