Our Namesake: Who is Aunt Agnes?
Honoring Legacy
Aunt Agnes House is a namesake organization that embodies the character, compassion, and servant-leadership of its eponym, the late Rev. Agnes Labell, whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to serving others—especially those who were vulnerable, overlooked, or marginalized. Rev. Labell served diverse populations, including individuals in prisons, nursing homes, and homeless communities, and was known for her ability to make anyone feel welcomed, often described a person who, “never knew a stranger.” Her ministry extended into her own home, where she provided both temporary and long-term care for foster children, the sick and shut-in, individuals who were terminally ill, displaced, elderly, and those with physical and intellectual disabilities, offering a place of refuge, dignity, and belonging. Aunt Agnes House carries forward this legacy by reflecting the same values of radical hospitality, empathy, and community-centered care, ensuring that those in need are met with compassion, respect, and meaningful support.
About Aunt Agnes House Leadership
Founder's Story: Jessica Hacket-Smith, LPC, LBS
Aunt Agnes House was born from both legacy and lived experience. For founder Jessica Hackett-Smith, this work is deeply personal. As the niece of the organization’s namesake, the late Rev. Agnes Labell, Jessica was raised in a legacy of service grounded in compassion, hospitality, and meeting people where they are. Watching her aunt open her home and heart to those often overlooked shaped the foundation of Aunt Agnes House.
Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavioral Specialist who has worked in mental health since 2004. She earned her Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College and spent nearly fifteen years with Merakey Behavioral Health providing clinical care while training and supervising other professionals. Her work is rooted in trauma-informed, person-centered practice, with expertise in autism and ADHD, behavioral support, grief, and complex trauma.
As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse living with PTSD, Jessica openly shares her story to reduce stigma and promote healing. Aunt Agnes House reflects her belief that care should be compassionate, culturally responsive, and grounded in dignity—creating space for healing, resilience, and hope for individuals, families, and communities.
Spoken Word Poet & Advocate
Jessica is a spoken word artist who specializes in faith-based and mental health–advocacy poetry, using powerful language to inspire healing, reflection, and hope. A writer since her teenage years, she established her voice early and brings a rich background that includes performing and recording rap music, which influences her rhythm, delivery, and commanding stage presence. She is the published author of Poetry on Mental Weapons Formed Against Me, a collection that explores resilience, faith, and emotional survival. Known for her strong delivery and vivid metaphors, Jessica’s spoken word performances have been described by listeners as informative, impressive, and deeply powerful. She regularly performs at schools, churches, festivals, conferences, and community events, using poetry as a tool to reduce stigma, spark conversation, and advocate for mental health awareness.
Beyond the Work
Outside of her professional roles, she enjoys laughter and fun with her close-knit, comedic family, including her husband and children. Influenced by her Southern roots and large family, she loves cooking, eating, and bringing people together around food. She also rides a motorcycle and stays active through coaching basketball and track, previously leading a championship-winning basketball team—an extension of her passion for mentorship, teamwork, and growth.
