Founder Zeleny Castillo was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, by Dominican parents with a family history deeply connected to immigration and Caribbean roots, including Puerto Rican heritage. A strong history connected to immigration, sacrifice, and perseverance. Growing up in an immigrant household allowed her to witness firsthand the challenges many families face while trying to build a better future in the United States.

One of her greatest inspirations is her grandmother, Rosa Irizarry, whose strength and sacrifices helped shape the vision behind House of Hope Services Inc. Despite experiencing economic hardship, emotional struggles, and many sacrifices throughout her life, Rosa worked tirelessly to create opportunities for her family and later helped bring and support loved ones so they could pursue a better future together. Her resilience, compassion, and dedication to family continue to inspire the organization's mission today.

Zeleny's passion for helping others comes from her belief that every family deserves access to trustworthy information, compassion, support, and the opportunity to succeed regardless of their background or immigration journey.

She has experience assisting immigrant families with immigration-related processes, document preparation, referrals, and community outreach. She has worked alongside immigration professionals and continues to expand her knowledge through legal education and hands-on training.

Her educational background includes studies in Political Science, Paralegal Studies, and Immigration Law through Lehman College, Hostos Community College, CUNY School of Law, and CUNY School of Professional Studies.

She has also received recognition from the Consulado General de la República Dominicana en Nueva York for her academic dedication and community involvement. In addition, Zeleny had the opportunity to serve and assist constituents through the office of Office of Congressman Adriano Espaillat, where she gained valuable experience working with immigrant and community-related matters. Her commitment to serving immigrant communities and advocating for families has been recognized through letters of support and recommendation connected to her ongoing work and leadership.

Zeleny currently continues her education through the Psychology Program at CUNY School of Professional Studies and is also part of the Wynter Immigration Law Academy, where she continues advancing her studies and advocacy in immigration law and community service.

Beyond her professional and educational journey, Zeleny is also a proud single mother of two children, who serve as her everyday motivation and inspiration. Her experiences as a mother have strengthened her passion for helping families build safer, more stable, and hopeful futures for the next generation.

Through House of Hope Services Inc., Zeleny's goal is to create a welcoming place where immigrant families can receive guidance, support, education, and referrals to trusted resources. She is committed to serving the community with honesty, compassion, dignity, and respect.