About Us

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Established in 2010, Strings for Hope is a survivor-led organization that has dedicated the last decade to making a positive impact on the local Nashville community. By up cycling second-hand musical strings, we create job opportunities for individuals overcoming substance use disorder, domestic violence, and human trafficking.

At Strings for Hope, we believe that economic opportunity is key to disrupting cycles of abuse and exploitation.

Whether survivors seek long-term employment with us or view it as a stepping stone towards their goals, we provide a trauma-informed workplace with ongoing training, assistance, and dignified wages.

Our products embody the spirit of Nashville: kind, creative, and deeply musical. We take pride in contributing to our community and transforming the lives of survivors within our city.

Your support is essential to the continuation of our mission. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing to stand with us. Thank you for your ongoing support of Strings for Hope!

Our Leadership Team

Emily Winters

CEO

In 2017, Emily Winters, took on the role of CEO of Strings for Hope. With a vision for new growth opportunities, in 2019 Emily adjusted the operating structure of Strings For Hope as a for-profit Social Enterprise corporation. With her prior sales experience, dedication, and passion for the mission, she has grown the company immensely. She currently sits on the board of Nashville Social Enterprise Alliance and has dedicated her professional life to empowering survivors through strong partnerships and survivor leadership.

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Ashton Strutz

Operations & Social Impact Director

Ashton has spent the majority of her professional life working alongside survivors of human trafficking & gender-based violence. Most recently, she worked as the Director of Operations at a residential center for minor survivors of sex trafficking. Ashton holds her masters degree from the London School of Economics in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which focused on designing social business models and developing business strategies for social enterprises. 

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Jess

Production Lead

Jess joined Strings for Hope in 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for jewelry craftsmanship. With a background as a Lead Maker for a handmade jewelry production team, Jess has honed her skills in both technique and production management. Her attention to detail, creativity, and leadership have made her an invaluable asset to the Strings for Hope team.
In her role as Production Lead, Jess oversees a talented group of artisans, ensuring that each piece of jewelry is crafted to the highest standards. She excels in production planning, streamlining processes, and fostering a collaborative environment where the team can thrive. Her dedication to quality and her ability to mentor others have helped to elevate the production at Strings for Hope, enabling the organization to expand its reach and impact.

Smiley Moore

Lead Product Developer & Trainer

Meet Smiley, a proud alumna of our Strings for Hope Work Development Program. With her excellent work ethic and leadership, she has worked her way into the position she currently holds as Quality Control Manager. Captivated by the message of hope fostered by this company, she displays expertise in upholding our product standards and supervises over 8 personnel. Smiley's remarkable talent shines through as she takes the lead in designing jewelry styles featured in our catalog.

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Alicia

Lead Education & Sales Rep.

Alicia Michilli is most widely recognized as a semi-finalist on popular national television show, AMERICA’s GOT TALENT. This Nashville transplant has opened for Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, and Andra Day. After Covid threw a wrench in her touring plans, she decided to pivot and that's when she stumbled upon Strings for Hope. She instantly fell in love with the mission and the team of incredible women. It was a perfect way to become a part of bettering the community while still making music.
Alicia brings unmatched energy and dedication to her role as a Lead Education and Event Rep. at Strings for Hope. A natural connector, she excels at building relationships and driving the organization’s mission forward, using her passion and drive to expand our reach and impact. Since joining the team, Alicia has become an indispensable force, consistently finding new opportunities to grow our community and ensure the sustainability of our mission.